Took the XD out to a Virginia farm today for first outdoor plinking and carrying on a short hike in mountain woods that have black bear, coyotes, and stray dogs.
My son-in-law, traditionally a revolver guy, a skilled outdoorsman who has hunted, hiked, and camped in the Rockies and Appalachians, loved the XD .45 ACP and said now he knows what he wants for Christmas. Said he was surprised how fast and accurate it was. We shot stationary skeet at seven to 20 yards using the usual 230-grain FMJ.
The XD was pleasant on the hike too, less than three pounds with two loaded magazines of 10 rounds each (could have carried 13 rounds each).
Nope, never saw any critters. But sure felt safer having the XD along in the woods.
After dark, tried the Glock laser/light. Impressive. Laser carried a good 30 yards as did the light, although the light was not very bright at that distance. Adds a welcome new dimension to night shooting/defense.
However, it definitely is a lot harder finding spent shell casings than with a revolver.