I really love the G36. Capacity has never bothered me and the accuracy/reliability has always been great with all kinds of ammo. Carries very, very well.
Have to say, though, this little XDs intrigues me.
Not really competing the two, in my mind, but I find a few (4) things very interesting about the XDs.
For a very similar-dimension .45, there are 2 things that really matter when it comes to the 'handling' in my experience/opinion.
1. The bore axis.
I think the Glock's low bore axis really helps focus recoil into the web of the hand better than the higher axis of XD models. Had a XDm .45 full size and it seemed to have a lot more muzzle rise than a Glock. Accuracy was outstanding, though.
2. The 'weight' of the slide.
Here's where it's possible the XDs 'might' have something on the G36. We'll have to wait and see when that info is available for comparison. If the XDs' slide is at all heavier than that of the G36, it just might negate the difference in bore axis and handle recoil as well or, possibly, even 'better' than the G36. Again, I look forward to the details on this.
I like the concept of the 5-round, flush-fit mag on the XDs. Many have voiced interest in a 5-round mag for the G36 that fit flush. Another interesting plus.
The last thing I've noticed, just from the detailed pics, etc., is the trigger on the XDs. Any of you XD owners notice the difference in the profile of the trigger? I've owned 2 XD's and, personally, have never liked the triggers as much as Glock triggers. Just too soft/mushy, I guess. The trigger on this new model 'appears' more Glock-esque.
Maybe, a la M&P SHIELD, Springfield is releasing the XDs with a better, more crisp trigger than on any of their other models.
I'm interested in hearing more about this XDs when it's released and wouldn't, at all, mind taking it for a test-drive.