I imagine it would be like going from a 3" 1911 to a 4"; the difference in accuracy is negligible, and usually relies more on the shooter than an 1" of barrel length. Less in the case of the XDs. I would say this is probably more for those who don't already own one to have an option, rather than those that already have the 3.3" version. And to further help SA corner the slim-pistol market. They're pretty much leaving Glock in the dust at this point, as far as the slim pocket pistol line goes. Honestly, had I known this was coming, I would have probably held off on getting my G23 last year and opted for this instead. That's not to say I don't like my Glock, but this would have been a nice choice.
I'm excited for this. I'm especially hopeful they'll sell just the slides & barrel as a separate unit so I don't have to buy the whole gun. I'd love to have an extra slide for when I feel like carrying a longer barrel. Is it worth having a whole second XDs? Not to me, but I'd like one or the other.
I love my XDs .45, just got it back a few weeks ago from warranty. I am not sure what the 4" barrel would do. I am accurate with the 3.3". I would assume it is for some who is not comfortable with the sorter barrel.
I love my 45 but this seems pretty sharp. Wonder if I can pick up a slide and barrel to make it the 4" 9mm. Be fun for the range anyway. And cheaper too.
You will not be able to convert the 45 to the 9mm... it's more than just the barrel size that is needed. The chamber dimensions are not compatible so the entire frame would need to be replaced too, hence, another gun.
The new XDs makes a lot of sense to me for concealed carry with the exception of pocket or ankle. I have always wondered why the barrel length must have some proportional link to the height of the grip. If the effectiveness of any projectile is heavily linked to velocity, then barrel length should be as close to "full size" as possible. Case in point, Speer produces their gold dot in a short barrel version because expansion is linked to velocity. I have read people who reduce the G17/19 to accept a G26 mag so it is easier to conceal.
I don't doubt the claims of felt recoil reduction or sight radius improvements but I think muzzle velocity and caliber effectiveness makes a better argument for the longer barrel.
From a concealment point of view, the slim frame and short grip has their own advantages. If I was willing to carry the XDs is a IWB or OWB configuration, then I really think the extra velocity that the 0.7" barrel is worth while and insignificant to the concealment equation. As a back-up gun on the ankle or pocket gun, I can see why absolute minimal dimensions might be more of a concern.
Finally, from a spec comparison perspective, this XDs might capture a few who was looking at the G19. Sure capacity is in the G19's favor, but someone who is spec shopping might find the slim frame and easier to conceal grip a solid advantage now that the barrel lengths are the same.
I've been looking at getting an XDs in the near future and will probably get the 4.0. While the advantages may be minimal, the slightly longer sight radius, and extra weight will give a slight (I do mean slight so don't attack me) advantage. As well as a small increase in bullet velocity due to barrel length. I do agree that they are making a big deal over .7 inches but in the world of concealed carry, options are important. The marketplace will decide whether it was a good move by Springfield. Now I just need to decide between 9 and .45.
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