I've had the 40 Tactical and 40 Subcompact for a little over a year now - love em both:
1. Concealability - I'm sure very few ppl plan on concealing the tactical, but it could probably be done - the grip size is the same as the service, and the longer barrel conceals just as well as the 4". However, the 3" is definitely the way to go. I have a desantis nemesis holster that's not very stable, and a tucker answer holster. At an athletic 5'10", I don't have trouble concealing, my problem is just finding a comfortable spot to put it where I don't have to adjust between sitting/standing.
2. Shootability - I've put in a few thousand rounds through each - both guns shoot pretty well, recoil is strong, but not sharp. I do plan on getting trigger jobs done on both (competition for the 5", carry for the 3") since the pull is a little heavy and travel a little long. I've found that I can shoot the 3" just as well as the 5" anywhere under 15y, after that, the longer sight radius on the 5" definitely helps.
3. Reliability - They've been reliable guns, the only problems I've had are FTFeeds with some PMC hollowpoint.
4. Value - They are a great value - You can expect to pay about $100 less than a comparable glock, and with better or equal features (IMO). Of course, ppl have been having rust problems, as the finish isn't as good as glock's - but I personally have had no problems with rust on either of my XDs in this tropical Ohio weather. I understand that if you have significant rust problems, you can send them to Springfield and they will refinish them free of charge. Maybe I should induce rusting
5. Overall - As far as plastic guns go, I love it. Good value, good ergonomics, great feel. It's even got great style, for a plastic gun.
He has sent his gun back to Springfield for repairs