The Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP may be a mouthful, but it is no doubt a lot of fun to shoot. Check out this detailed review of the latest EDC edition by Springfield.
Unlike most other compact handguns, the Springfield XD-M Lite comes with a Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly, also known as META Trigger for short. There is nothing off with this type of trigger, only that you might find the non-tactile reset daunting at first.
Ammunition
Most shooters prefer using brass ammo due to its reliability, but you can rest assured that the Springfield XD-M will reliably shoot any 9mm ammo you throw in it. These include the cheap and readily available Wolf Steel Cased or the CCI Aluminum Cased 9mm ammunition.
Recoil
Very few concealed carry handguns can manage recoil as well as the Springfield XD-M. As a result, you can trust this ECD to consistently stretch from close range to 38 yards even when your stretch with other handguns has been less than that. Keep in mind that this is possible even with miniature targets.
This is especially because the Springfield XD-M's muzzle flip is exceptionally smooth, which is the opposite of most compact handguns. All you have to do is get used to the firearm's ergonomics, and you are good to go.
Note: As a result of better recoil management, the Springfield XD-M's follow-up shots are easier and do not compromise on compactness even with its slightly longer barrel.
Every gun owner will have to love the firearm's magwell as its seamless reloads guarantee you zero issues whenever you are inserting a fresh magazine into the gun. This is especially so for people with dainty hands.
Also, the magwell has a rather subtle profile that is less likely to cause any issues jabbing or printing into your abdomen during concealed carry without a holster on hand.
Ergonomics
The handgun's grooves and the general texture are somewhat underwhelming. It is certainly solid in hand and doesn't feel cheap, but it can be a little more ergonomic than most gun owners would prefer, especially if you love your grip abrasive.
What Could Be Better
Ergonomics: We live in an era where we have all possible options to fulfill practically any need, which has led us to be a little spoiled and rigid. Ergonomics are generally a matter of preference, and those on the Springfield XD-M require some getting used to, especially if you are coming from a different firearm style. They are, however, not a dealbreaker and are easy to get used to.
Trigger: The pistol's META trigger feels great, but its reset is inaudible and not as tactile as other compact pistols. While this is excellent for fast follow-up shots, it makes it hard to ingrain the reset into the muscle memory of your trigger finger.
Magazines: Compared to the magazines on other popular compact pistols, the Springfield XD-M's magazines are somewhat stiff. This makes packing them up difficult compared to polymer Glock OEM or steel CZ-P10c magazines, especially if you do not use speed loaders.
Watch this video by hickok45 on Springfield Armory Hellcat:
There you have it, gun lovers. If you have not interacted with Springfield pistols before, it will help to try the XD-M Elite in your local range to get a rough idea of how to handle it. Better yet, rent it to know how it feels in your hands or how it shoots. The bottom line, the Springfield XD-M is a serious contender in the handgun realm.
What do you think about the Springfield XD-M? Let us know in the comment section below!