Sub-compact XD vs. 4 or 5 in XD

[mewachee]

I am buying my first auto. I am pretty sure I want an XD. I am thinking I want the Sub in .40 S&W.

I have a couple of short barreled revolvers, and have logged the differences from similar guns with longer barrels in accuracy and velocity.

Has anyone compared the sub-compact with the longer barreled XDs? I have heard that many around here have been very impressed with the accuracy of the XDs, but I am interested in the results of this comparison.

 

[possum]

i have the 4" and 3" xd's in .40 and i couldn't be happier with either one. i have carried both for quite a while but i prefer the sc for ccw duties.

 

[Hanzerik]

I traded my XD9 (4") for a XD9SC with a member on THR. I liked the XD9SC more then the service model. Was easier to conceal with the shorter grip. But I did trade the XD9SC off because I got a G19 and liked it even better.

 

[xpun8]

Have both, but shoot the 4" much better and that's why I carry it. CCW isn't a big deal with an IWB comp-tac and a jacket or loose untucked shirt.

 

[OregonJohnny]

I own the XD-40 sc and love it to death. I've had it for over 2 years and I can shoot it very well out to 25 or 30 yards. At 7 to 10 yards it is extremely accurate for a 3" barrel. It will take all kinds of ammo and works like a fine timepiece. My next handgun will probably be the XD-45 compact. The full-length grips of the service models just seem to go on forever. I can get all 3 fingers onto the sub compact grip, but I guess I have long thin fingers. At first I thought the short grip would hinder accuracy and control, but I've become very used to it and can shoot it as well as my full-size 1911 and Beretta 92. If you're mostly looking to use it for a CCW, I'd go with the sub compact.

 

[Paragon]

I started with an XD 45 service, and just picked up a XD 9 subcompact for concealed carry. I am comfortable with them both, and I'd say both are more accurate than me.

 

[mewachee]

No matter which one I go with, I will shoot it first to see if there is anything that needs modified. With that said, does the sub-compact need to have the trigger pull changed?

when I shoot my wifes SP 101, I find that I have to work twice as hard to hold the gun steady with the da; the gun is so light and short.

 

[Butter]

Depends on what you want to do with it. I own several XDs in .45 and 9mm. I have eschewed the .40 for my own reasons, basically not liking the snappiness of the round. But if you like it, go for it.

As to your comparison, in 9mm I like the XD tactical 5" above the subcompact chambered for the same round. The sub is accurate in the distance for which it isn't proscribed due to the shorter barrel. But the 5", for all around shooting and plinking, can't be beat. It's accurate, reliable and the extra sight radius helps me to get on target more easily. I have also switched out the sights for fiber optic ones and had the trigger worked on. Very nice pistol and shoots well.

And don't get me wrong...I like 'em in any length---so in my book you can't go wrong with either choice. But I'll also say, once you buy one length barrel, you'll probably want the other---just because.

 

[mewachee]

you are probably right. This purchase is for my first real CCW. It is likely that I will go with the sub-compact. If I like it the way I think I will, I will probably get XDm Tactical 5" if they make them the "M".

 

[chupacabrah]

I have a full size M&P, but by the same token, i wish i'd gotten a compact. grip extension and whatnot to make it full size, but then short grip makes it easier to conceal.

XD9sc is on my list of "nexts"

 

[mewachee]

Put money down on Subcompact

Today, I put money on the Subcompact. I almost went with the .45 in a 4 in., but then decided that sub would fulfill one task, the the 5 in. tactical would fulfill another. Thanks any and all advice.