For a time, Glock led innovation in the industry with new calibers, compact and sub-compact models, and compensated models for competition and tactical shooters. Recently, though, Glock seems to be late to the game with the type of features consumers most demand, like accessory rails, integrated holsters, and ergonomic grip options. In light of all of the new products in the market, I find myself asking the question, “If I had to buy my first handgun today, would I still pick a Glock?”
Today, nearly every manufacturer has their version of a Glock: a polymer frame, striker fired, semi-auto Pistol in multiple calibers and sizes. Springfield Armory, S&W, FN, Berretta, and Taurus all offer quality guns in the format with Smith and Springfield getting most of the recent press. Glock’s newest Gen 4 pistol also includes the newest development of ergonomic back straps and revised grip textures to improve grip purchase and handling.
Springfield Armory offers the most compelling Glock alternative for my purposes. The XD-M is an evolution of the XD platform imported originally in 2002from Croatia. The XD-M improves on the XD frame by adding a match barrel, increased modularity, better ergonomics, and an upgraded slide design. The XD-M is available in all the popular calibers (.45ACP, .40S&W, and 9mm), and in full or compact sizes. The gun has two levels of safety without resorting to an independent safety actuator. The Glock style trigger looks just like my G19 trigger, and ensures that the gun will fine only when an affirmative trigger grip is used. The XD-M also integrates a grip safety similar to those on the iconic 1911, which requires a full grip on the pistol for operation.
With top quality sights, excellent ergonomics, a 4.5” barrel, the full size XD-M offers competition quality accuracy. In 9MM, the gun handles 19 rounds in the magazine, giving the shooter the highest capacity pistol with a standard magazine. The newest model in 9mm and .40S&W makes a new spin on the compact frame. With a 3.8” barrel, the XD-M compact pistol closely matches the size of a Glock G27, and includes a 13 round flush-fit magazine. Springfield’s innovation came from their modular grip frame that integrates a full 19 round magazine (in 9mm) with a grip extension that gives the compact frame pistol the same grip area as the full sized pistol.
Glock originated this feature on their sub-compact frame guns, but Springfield has improved on this feature and offers in my opinion the best grip options with a small or sub-compact frame pistol. In the XD-M Compact, a consumer can comfortably carry the pistol with the flush fit magazine and not worry about printing the gun under their clothing. A quick switch to the X-Tension magazine offers the shooter all of the ammunition and grip area of the full sized pistol. It’s one of the industry’s best innovations for compact carry pistols.
Like all XD type pistols, Springfield includes a complete system with the purchase of the pistol. A molded carry case, fitted holster, magazine holder, mag loader, and gun lock are included in the XD and XD-M purchase. It’s a full-service option that leaves few accessories for a new owner to purchase. With dovetailed sights and an accessory rail, the XD-M leaves options to the owner to upgrade to various sights and optics, as well as rail-based light or laser systems to suit their defensive shooting needs.
Next time - the S&W M&P... 
