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General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: CptTrips on February 13, 2007, 01:23:41 PM

Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: CptTrips on February 13, 2007, 01:23:41 PM
Not to highjack Xargos' thread....

I have been considering getting a handgun (better hurry before the Red Queen gets elected).  It will be my first handgun.

I've fire the 9mm and 45 cal Glocks at the local range a couple of times. For some reason I preferred the 45.    

A friend recommended the Springfield XD45 ACP. I was wondering if any of you had experience with this specific model, positive or negative.

Regards,
Wab
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Slash27 on February 13, 2007, 01:28:17 PM
The only experience I have with it is getting my hands on it at the store.( I liked it) I did read an article about them and it had nothing but praise for it. I dont recall what mag I read it in but Ill dig around a bit.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Toad on February 13, 2007, 01:56:07 PM
Shot a box through a friend's XP .45 last week. IMO, it's a good gun. I thought the grip design fit me well and recoil was negligible for me. Accuracy was decent but I didn't shoot it enough to get real comfortable with what the sights were telling me. For me it shot to the right.

Absolutely no FTF for any of us that shot it and we went through about 200 Winchester white box.

I liked it; I also own a personal Glock 17, one of the real early ones back when the knownothings first panicked about "plastic" guns terrorizing the air travel system. I like the XD more than my Glock fwiw.

I also think the XD package is a good deal. A couple of weeks ago Cabela's was selling the earth-colored grip XD .45 for $429. I should have bought one and I will if they re-run it. The earth color suxxors, IMO, but it'll shoot the same and that's what counts.

All that said, I'm about to get a Taurus PT-1911 just for the heck of it. I'm kinky for 1911's. and that one seems like a lot of gun for what I'm paying (<$400..don't ask)   :)
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: FX1 on February 13, 2007, 02:02:58 PM
I have and i sold my glock 35 to purchase a XD .40 tactical. I think its going to be a great gun with the new trigger jobs that people are doing to their xd.

Mags are $ but everything else looks great for the gun.

Custom shops are flooded with XD's..

I liked my Glock very much i think i was looking for something new then i shot a XD and really liked it. Shot the same loads out of a kimber then a XD and the XD shot better in my hands. The kimber had a better trigger but the xd had better recoil and recovery time on target. Shot a silver dollar group at 15 yards fast and controlled.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on February 13, 2007, 02:36:55 PM
I've shot a rental XD 9mm a couple times and liked it.  Nice safe gun that seems competent and inspires confidence.  Wanted to try a .40 or .45 but none for rent.  Friend bought an XD 45 and really likes it.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: rpm on February 13, 2007, 03:35:13 PM
Wabbitt, go down to Cheaper Than Dirt and ask to fire one. Get a hands on feel of the gun and see what you think. They are on the service road at 820 & MK IV Parkway. There's also a gun store/range at 35 & 28th Street.

I shoot a Ruger P90DC .45 and love it, but they are not for everyone. They are heavy and carry a relatively small clip. But anything I hit will go down.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Shuffler on February 13, 2007, 07:48:52 PM
I bought a XD 45 ACP tactical a few months ago. I really like it.. in fact it is my carry, even with the 5 inch barrel. It is a joy to shoot and accurate. You'll need to get used to the grip/trigger safety setup. There is no "on/off" safety as such. It comes with a nice loader and two 13 round clips along with small belt holster and clip holster.... nice thing is both holster have outside rails for any light or laser you may carry... and a case for the whole setup. I carry mine daily in a leather shoulder holster.

I shoot inexpensive ball ammo at the range. When being carried I have Hornady TAP 180 gr in the clips.

I do recommend this ..... it's nice right out of the case.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Terror on February 13, 2007, 08:13:14 PM
I own a XD9 and after putting a little over 500 rounds through it, I find I don't like it much.  It seems that the stock trigger on the XD's are not very precise.  Alot of the XD owners are getting "trigger jobs" to improve the trigger.  I have decided make my XD9 a hanger queen as I do not want to go through the expense or exercise of having a custom trigger job done on it.  My Glocks are much better guns, especially since I don't have to get a custom trigger job done to them to make them shoot consistently.

If I were to go with a non-Glock .45acp it would definitely be a 1911 clone.  Kimber or Springfield Armory make some very nice 1911's.  And most of them are very consistent right from the factory.

Terror
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Terror on February 13, 2007, 08:24:55 PM
oh, and a note:

Glock revealed a new Glock Model at SHOT show.  The G21sf (Glock 21 Short Frame .45acp).  Reduced the frame size to better fit smaller hands, but kept the same mags/round count.

See some pics here (http://lundestudio.com/2007SHOTShow/) about 1/4 down the page.

Direct links to pics here:

Pic 1 (http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/2007SHOTShow/Day1/g21sf-1.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/2007SHOTShow/Day1/g21sf-2.jpg)
Pic 3 (http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/2007SHOTShow/Day1/g21sf-3.jpg)
Pic 4 (http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/2007SHOTShow/Day1/g21sf-4.jpg)

Terror
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: VOR on February 13, 2007, 09:50:27 PM
Quote
Originally posted by rpm
But anything I hit will go down.


Think you could hit one of those? Sounds like it would be worth a try... :D

(http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/pic/70/045_XL1077~Pamela-Anderson-Barb-Wire-Posters.jpg)
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Xargos on February 14, 2007, 02:22:03 AM
I never trust anything until I put at least 3000 rounds through it with no jams or miss-fires, so I can not say anything good or bad about the XD45 ACP.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: 68Hawk on February 15, 2007, 11:30:51 AM
My friend just got a 9mm subcompact.  I haven't had a chance to fire it yet, but he says its wonderful.  Says he's going to get a .45 tactical soon too.  I like the features on them.  They seem very well thought through.  Gosh, how many rounds of .45 do those things hold with the extended mag, was it like 14?  I want to say its 17 for the 9mm, but I can't remember.  

Either way, thats a lot of ammo for one handgun.

I really like the accessories it comes with too.  Hopefully I'll be getting my first handgun soon, and the XD is going to be on my list to consider.  Getting all the stuff with a purchase is a big plus to someone like me.  

I do wish it had a hammer though.  I like the striker indicator so you can tell its cocked, and the loaded chamber indicator, but I really like to have a hammer on there.  

Good to hear so many good things about the XD.  I'll tell my friend.  Hope I get a chance to try his soon.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on February 16, 2007, 10:42:14 AM
This thread gives me the hots again for an XD.  I don't need it, firepower-wise, but I'm sure starting to want it.    

Got a Ruger Security-Six .357.  But when things go bump in the night, I find I'm reluctant to load it.  Even the speed loader seems clumsy.  I never keep a loaded gun in the house, so in a contingency I need to find the gun in the dark and load it in the dark and be extremely comfortable with its safety and handling.  

From reviews and firing the 9mm XD a couple times, the XD seems to have ideal features for home defense.  Could have a couple 10- to 13-round magazines nearby, load one, and for extra safety not inject a shell into the chamber.  

And when a shell is in the chamber, could easily feel the two loaded indicators.  

Then a consistent in effect single action trigger.  Plus ability to mount a light or laser (inclined more toward the latter).  

What's not to like?

I'm especially interested in how many of you Kimber, SSI, Glock or other pistol enthusiasts have switched to an XD as your preferred home defense and/or plinking large caliber handgun?

Please respond quickly.  There's a gun show tomorrow and I am sooooo tempted to go XD.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Hawco on February 16, 2007, 12:31:09 PM
Never really got invloved in the handgun/ammo debates before, But thought I'd pitch in this time.
Withoubt a doubt, the best personal weapon I have ever come across is the Sig p226, I have used that weapon under all terrains and situations, never had one thing go wrong - ever
I don't know what else to tell you, but take my word for it- it does what is designed to do- very well.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: FX1 on February 16, 2007, 12:56:02 PM
If you look at the ipsc and other shooting sports their are going to be more XD in the stock class than any other gun. Look at what the competitors use because i can guarantee that they have shot everything under the sun. Their have been trends in ipsc over the years. The stock class really does give you a good feel for what the pro's are shooting.


Cool discussion from people that use their pistols on a weekly bases.


http://www.brianenos.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=41620&hl=stock+gun
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Sabre on February 16, 2007, 02:24:43 PM
I've fired the XD 9-mm, with 4-inch ported barrel.  Very accurate, with only modest kick (also tried a Browning hi-power .380 which was a lot more uncomfortable to fire).  XD has very comfortable feel in the hand.  I haven't tried the 45 version of the XD, so I've got no opinion other than to say that if it's anything like the XD 9-mm, I'd be happy to own one.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on February 17, 2007, 12:37:47 PM
Went to the gun show.  Lots of XDs.  4-inch .45 ACP looks really fine.  

But didn't buy it.  

Not this time.

Still might sometime.

:confused:

I need to fire one to be sure.  But local range rents only the 9mm, which I liked, but that was not the .45.  

.40 is still tempting too.  Like the caliber but not sure if it is oomph enough.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: FX1 on February 18, 2007, 11:56:51 AM
oomph enough

I have shot many pigs with the 40 and 45. both do the job but the 40 i cant see the bullet like i can with the 45.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Dago on February 18, 2007, 12:08:35 PM
I am looking at a Sig 239 in .40 as a carry weapon.  Very impressed with Sigs.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on February 18, 2007, 09:06:49 PM
Just had to go back to the gun show a second day after spending yet more time in endless on-line research trying to talk myself out of buying an XD .45 ACP.

I failed.  And I'm glad.

I'm really impressed with the Springfield XD .45 ACP.  I think it's the big handgun I've always wanted.  The past year I've fired all kinds of handguns rented at our local indoor range.  Many were impressive, but none were quite what I was looking for.  

The range had only the 9mm XD, which I liked, but always favored .40 and .45 ACP.  Many reviews point out that XDs combine many of the best features of Glocks, Sigs, and 1911s.  

Tomorrow I'll get to fire the XD .45 ACP at the range.  Meanwhile, been studying and fondling it.  I won't repeat the endless accolades it gets in on-line reviews.  Easy to Google and find them.

Even got a laser/light for it.  Gun show didn't have the smaller XD laser/light, so got a slightly larger Glock laser/light that works fine on the XD.  That laser makes all the difference in confidence and deterrence in lousy light as well as good light.

So this thread revived my interest and I finally had to give in for an XD.  My wife smirks that my gun interest is part of my needing to feel strong as I get older.  If that thought makes her happy, it's okay with me.  Besides, she may be right.  :rolleyes:  

I'll report later on the range results in a separate thread reviving home defense options.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: CptTrips on February 24, 2007, 09:09:48 AM
Thanks for the input all.  I bought one and I think I'm really going to like it.

About to drive out to my land and make some loud noises.   :O

Regards,
Wab
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Xargos on February 24, 2007, 09:19:05 AM
Quote
Originally posted by AKWabbit
Thanks for the input all.  I bought one and I think I'm really going to like it.

About to drive out to my land and make some loud noises.   :O

Regards,
Wab


Just remember what end the bullet comes out of...:D
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on February 27, 2007, 10:34:19 AM
So Wab, how did your first firing go?
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: CptTrips on March 03, 2007, 04:55:47 PM
Sorry, I had some stuff come up and I wasn't actually able to go out shooting until today.

So far I'm very happy with my choice.  Only had time to put 100 rnd thru.  No mechanical problems.  Comfortable and easy to use.  There is just something about the ergonomics of it that I liked better than the Glocks I had shot.

It seemed to shoot consistently slightly low and to the right for me but I might have been doing something wrong technique wise.  I just adjusted my site picture accordingly.  

Gonna put some more thru it tommorow.  

Bottom line:  :aok :aok :aok

Regards,
Wab
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Masherbrum on March 03, 2007, 05:05:19 PM
I shoot with both eyes open, even when looking through scopes.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Captain Virgil Hilts on March 03, 2007, 07:11:46 PM
I just bought myself a Para Ordnance P-14 45. Tried the XD, the Glock, and others, again, once more. Nothing felt as good as the P-14, except a Sig P-220, and a Kimber. I couldn't get as good a deal on the Sig or the Kimber, so I bought the P-14. Bought the wife a Taurus 445 stainless 44 Special.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: SteveBailey on March 03, 2007, 08:40:38 PM
I have a kimber stainless gold match and it is a fantastic gun.  It's full size though and not ideally suited for concealed carry.  I'm in the market for a nice carry gun. I'm watching this thread closely to glean what I can.  The XD .45 in bi-tone 4" interests me and stores here locally have them in stock.  I'm going to keep watching.  This thread contains helpful info. :)
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Halo on March 03, 2007, 10:32:11 PM
Glad you're liking your XD, Wab.  I'm sure liking mine.  Ergonomics, price, 13-shot capacity, reliability, accuracy, accessories, and warranty are all plusses.  

I rented a lot of other makes before choosing the XD .45 ACP.  I especially liked the Kimber and STI, but to me the XD feels better in my hand, more consistent in its single action pull, and safer, about like using a double action revolver.
Title: Springfield XD45 ACP Advice?
Post by: Dago on March 03, 2007, 11:22:21 PM
Think I have settled on a Sig P229 .40 S&W DAK for a carry weapon, though I virtually never carry and don't expect to, still want a good pistol if the need should arise.