First Look: Springfield Armory XD Mod. 2 Sub-Compact Pistol

Over the past several years, the Springfield Armory XD 3-inch Sub-Compact has become widely recognized at the range and on our carry belts as one of the most popular double-stack semiautos on the market.

Today, the dawn of a new generation has arrived. Springfield Armory is introducing the new XD Mod. 2 Sub-Compact pistol, chambered for 9mm or .40 S&W. The XD Mod. 2 is updated from its predecessor with several enhancements for improved concealability, ergonomics and performance.

The newborn Mod. 2 sets out to improve the shooter's experience with GripZone. According to Springfield, "GripZone is every surface on the frame that makes contact with your hand."

During its development, human biomechanics were engineered into the placement and textures of GripZone. Three different textures are molded into specific parts of the grip where slip-resistance is most critical. The resulting ergonomic improvement gives shooters more traction on the grip surface while applying less force on the frame.

In addition to the GripZone treatment, Springfield Armory has also re-contoured the grip and reduced the frame's circumference. Overall, its 1.19-inch grip width measures one tenth of an inch thinner than the original XD Sub-Compact. Other changes to the frame include a rounded trigger guard and a slim-contoured disassembly lever. While many dimensional changes were applied to the new design, the XD Mod. 2 Sub-Compact maintains compatibility with original XD magazines and holsters.

The XD Mod. 2's reduced frame size also results in a slimmer slide for improved concealability. Shooters will take notice of the new posi-wedge slide serrations that bear close resemblance to those of the single-stack XD-S. Atop the slide, a low-profile rear combat sight and fiber optic front sight offer an extra 1/2-inch sight radius as well as faster target acquisition. The pistol also comes with red and green fiber optic replacement rods.

Safety features of the XD Mod. 2 are familiar with those of the original XD version and include a grip safety and trigger safety, along with a striker status indicator and loaded chamber indicator.

Now available today, the Springfield Armory XD Mod. 2 Sub-Compact will be initially chambered for 9mm or .40 S&W. Both chamberings will be produced with black and bi-tone color options. The all-black versions come to market for $565, and the bi-tone pistols will run $599. The pistols ship neatly packed in a hard case with one 13- and one 16-round magazine, a holster, double mag pouch, speed loader and fiber optic replacement rods.

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Action: SA striker-fired semiauto

Caliber: 9x19mm, .40 S&W

Capacity: 13+1rds, 16+1rds with X-Tension

Grip Width: 1.19"

Weight: 26 oz. with Empty Mag

Length: 6.25"

Height: 4.75", 5.5" with X-Tension

Barrel: 3" Hammer Forged

Slide: Forged Steel Melonite Finish

Frame: Polymer

Sights: Fiber Optic Front & Low Profile Combat Rear

For now, check out G&A's exclusive photos of the next generation Springfield XD Sub-Compact: