SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-M ELITE
Posted Jun 16, 2023
4.5
Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5: A Quality Now Standard in Concealed Carry Pistols
The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5 is a highly advanced, modern, and well-built concealable handgun, capable of being safely hidden in any clothes or environment, that offers the perfect balance of comfort, performance, and innovation. Whether you are a first-time shooter or an everyday carry veteran, the XD-M Elite 4.5 should be your go-to choice for a reliable and comfortable concealed carry firearm.
When it comes to concealed carry, reliability is key. You need a firearm you can trust no matter the situation or environment. The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5 is well-suited to meet that need, as it has been tested and proven to stand up to the rigors of daily use without fail. The pistol features a high-impact polymer frame, coated with an external UltraCote finish, and a Melonite treated stainless steel slide, both of which are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, wear, and the elements. Additionally, the Metropolis-patterned grip provides a secure, solid, and comfortable grip that will not slip or slide in your hands, even under extreme circumstance.
In regards to performance, the XD-M Elite 4.5 delivers top-notch craftsmanship and precision. It is chambered in .45 ACP and uses a 5.25-inch barrel that utilizes a fully supported, match-grade Ballard-type cut. This allows for a high-level of accuracy and a manageable and controlled recoil. The pistol also comes with a number of other features that make it ideal for competitive and target shooting, such as an extended magazine and slide catch, ambi slide release, and an adjustable rear sight. The adjustable rear sights make a huge difference in shooting accuracy at longer ranges, allowing users to easily zero in their target with ease.
In terms of innovation, the XD-M Elite 4.5 is a champion amongst its peers. Its low bore axis keeps the barrel level with the shooter’s hand, dramatically reducing perceived recoil. Additionally, the pistol comes equipped with the Ultra Safety Assurance (USA) action trigger system, which is a safety measure that prevents the firearm from being discharged without direct user contact. This trigger system also makes the trigger break smoother and much easier to control, allowing for more accurate follow-up shots.
As far as comfort goes, the XD-M Elite 4.5 offers unparalleled comfort, even for extended carry sessions. The low-profile sights, smooth trigger, and Metropolis-style grip all come together to make shooting a breeze, no matter what the situation. The pistol also comes with interchangeable back straps, allowing the user to customize the fit and feel of the pistol to their needs.
Overall, the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5 is an excellent choice for concealed carry. It is reliable, accurate, and offers a comfortable and controllable shooting experience. Its features, such as the fully supported, match-grade barrel and the innovative Ultra Safety Assurance action trigger system, make it an ideal choice for both beginners and everyday carry veterans. With its high-impact polymer frame, stainless steel slide, and modern design, the XD-M Elite 4.5 will no doubt become the standard for concealed carry firearms.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It is an extremely safe yet reliable gun. It comes with two drop safeties, a loaded chamber indicator, and a grip safety to prevent accidental discharge.
- Its frame is polymer, which is both light and strong, allowing it to be used for a wide variety of purposes.
- It has a match grade barrel and slide for enhanced accuracy and precision.
- The ergonomics of the gun are perfect for a comfortable grasp, making it easy to handle for beginners.
- The magazine capacity is 19 rounds, ensuring that you have enough rounds to defend yourself.
Cons:
- It is somewhat expensive which could be a disadvantage depending on your budget.
- The recoil can be quite strong, which can make it difficult to maintain accuracy under pressure.
- The polymer frame may not be as durable as metal frames.
- It can be difficult to customize without a gunsmith due to the complex internals.
- The sight radius is not the longest, making long distance shots more difficult.
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance handgun should seriously consider the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite. It is based on the company’s popular XD-M line of pistols, and has been upgraded with improved ergonomics and increased accuracy and control. It is an excellent choice for those who plan to use the pistol for competition or self-defense.
However, those who are looking for a budget-friendly pistol should look elsewhere. The XD-M Elite is a premium handgun with a high price tag. It is not the best option for those on a tight budget.
Comparisons
| Feature | SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-M ELITE | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER PC1911 | WILSON COMBAT CQB TACTICAL LE | HECKLER & KOCH HK 416 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | .45 ACP | 9mm | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 4.5" | 5" | 5" | 10.4" |
| Weight | 27.4 oz. | 43.3 oz. | 35.4 oz. | 7.5 lb. |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 4.5"
• Sights: Fiber Optic Front/Low Profile Combat Rear
• Magazines: (2) 19rds & (2) 24rds
• Overall Length: 8"
• Weight: 29 oz.
• Slide Finish: Melonite
• Option: Threaded Barrel
• Trigger: 5.5 - 7.7lbs.
Popular Accessories
9MM
The most popular accessories for the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 9mm include:
- Magazines – High-capacity magazines are available to increase the amount of ammo that can be carried.
- Flashlight & Laser – Flashlights and lasers provide faster target acquisition and improved visibility in low light settings.
- Trigger Guards – Trigger guards help protect the shooter’s finger from the trigger while holstering the firearm.
- Custom Grips – Custom grips help improve the feel of the firearm and improve the shooter’s control over the firearm.
- Scope Mounts – Scope mounts allow for the attachment of optics such as scopes, red dots, and holographic sights.
- Barrel Extensions – Barrel extensions increase the accuracy and reliability of the firearm.
- Sights and Optics – Different types of sights and optics allow for maximum accuracy and precision.
- Cleaning Supplies – Cleaning supplies are a must for long-term maintenance and performance of any firearm.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the Springfield Armory XDM Elite is impressive. The 5.25" match-grade barrel utilizes polygonal rifling to ensure consistent accuracy and shot placement. The ergonomic grip and low bore axis provide natural pointability and enhanced control. Additionally, the long sight radius helps with accuracy at longer ranges. Shooters report that the accuracy of the XD-M Elite is sufficient to compete in IPSC competitions and pass military acceptance tests.
