SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-S 9 3.3
Posted May 19, 2023
The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is the perfect pistol for those who are looking for the ultimate combination of power and convenience. Known for its superior reliability and accuracy, the XD-S 9 3.3 is one of the most sought-after handguns on the market today. This helpful in-depth review provides a comprehensive overview of the pistol so that you can make an informed decision when considering your next purchase.
Functionality and Design
In terms of functionality and design, the Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 truly stands out. The XD-S 9 3.3 is a striker-fired, polymer framed, semi-automatic pistol with a 9mm chambering. It features a 3” hammer-forged stainless steel barrel with Melonite finish, and a dual recoil spring design to reduce felt recoil and improve overall function. The pistol also features an ambidextrous magazine release, which allows left and right-handed users to easily reload without having to switch hands.
The XD-S 9 3.3 also features a removable image capture back plate which allows for easy mounting of existing optics or red dot sights. The external finish is matte black, with the barrel polished to a glossy finish for a more aesthetically pleasing look.
Performance
The performance of the Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is second to none. This is due in part to its 3” barrel which provides a slightly longer sight radius than other similar sized pistols. The longer sight radius greatly improves accuracy, making it easier to keep shots grouped tighter and deliver consistent performance.
The XD-S 9 3.3’s dual recoil spring design also contributes to its excellent performance. The dual recoil spring design helps to reduce felt recoil and improves cycling reliability when using either standard (non-plus ammunition) or +P ammunition. This is especially helpful for users who want to use the pistol for target shooting or home defense.
Safety Features
There is no denying that safety is a crucial factor when it comes to choosing any firearm. The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3’s safety features are designed to ensure that it can be safely operated by both experienced and novice users alike.
The pistol features a grip safety to prevent unintended discharges and an Ultra Safety Assurance (USA) Action Trigger System to help prevent unintentional discharges. Additionally, the pistol also features an internal firing pin block to ensure it is completely safe when the magazine is removed. The XD-S 9 3.3 also ships from the factory with a loaded chamber indicator, which allows the user to visually check if the pistol is loaded or not.
Ergonomics
The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is designed with ergonomics in mind. It features an ergonomically-designed grip which is optimized to fit comfortably in the shooters hand and provides a firm grip on the pistol. The pistol also features an integral beavertail to help disperse recoil and assist in maintaining a high level of control over the weapon.
The pistol’s low bore axis also helps with ergonomics, as it reduces muzzle flip and helps to keep the pistol in line with the shooters sights while shooting. The pistol also features an ambidextrous magazine release and a reversible safety, allowing the user to easily operate the weapon no matter which hand they prefer to shoot with.
Price and Availability
The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is certainly not the most affordable pistol on the market. However, considering its superb performance, excellent ergonomics, and top-notch safety features, it is definitely worth the price. The pistol is available through most gun dealers, and online. The pistol’s price ranges from $400 - $600 depending on the specific configuration and retailer.
Overall
The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is a great pistol for those who are looking for a dependable, accurate, intuitive to use pistol that offers excellent value for the money. With its superior performance, excellent ergonomics, and top-notch safety features it is clear that this is one of the best pistols on the market today.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Lightweight, slim frame for easy concealed carry.
• Smooth single-action trigger for improved accuracy with little felt recoil.
• High-capacity magazine can hold up to nine rounds.
• Comfortable ergonomic grip offers a secure grip and increases accuracy.
• Reliable and durable construction can handle the rigors of daily carry.
• Easily customizable with a variety of aftermarket attachments and accessories.
Cons:
• Fairly expensive price tag for an entry-level concealed carry pistol.
• The 3.3-inch barrel may reduce accuracy for longer range shots.
• Some shooters may find that the grip is too large for proper concealed carry.
• Not as readily available as other brands of firearms.
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy the SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-S 9 3.3 are people looking for a durable and reliable concealable handgun that is comfortable to carry and can hold 9 rounds in the magazine. This gun is also well-suited for those with smaller hands, as the grip is very short.
Those who shouldn't buy the SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-S 9 3.3 are people who want a lighter handgun or those who are looking for an option for defense and need more rounds than 9. Additionally, those who may need to also shoot handguns that require longer grips may be better off looking for an alternative.
Comparisons
| Brand & Model | Caliber | Mag Capacity | Length (in) | Width (in) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield XDS 9 3.3 | 9mm | 7/8/9 | 6.3 | .9 | 22.5 |
| Glock G43 | 9mm | 6 | 6.26 | 1.02 | 17.95 |
| S&W M&P Shield 9mm | 9mm | 7/8 | 6.1 | .95 | 19.0 |
| Ruger LC9s Pro | 9mm | 7 | 6.00 | .90 | 17.2 |
| Kahr CW9 | 9mm | 7 | 5.90 | .90 | 15.8 |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Magazine Capacity: Single Stack, 7+1 & 8+1
• Barrel Length: 3.3" Hammer Forged Steel, Melonite® Finish
• Overall Length: 6.3"
• Sight Radius: 5.6"
• Height: 4.4"
• Width: .9"
• Weight: 21.5 oz. with Empty Magazine
• Grip Width: .975"
• Frame: Black Polymer
• Slide: Forged Steel, Melonite® Finish
Popular Accessories
- Holster: Red Hill Tactical IWB Kydex Holster, Bravo Concealment BCA OWB Kydex Holster
- Extended Magazines: Carlsons 17rd 9mm Extended Magazine
- Magazine Speedloaders: TACwolf 9mm Speedloader
- Light/Laser Attachments: Crimson Trace Laserguard Red Laser Sight
- Aftermarket Parts/Upgrades: Apex Tactical Specialties Extended and Hard Sear
- Grips: Pearce Grips Plus 1 and Plus 2
- Cleaning Kits: Otis Elite Gun Cleaning Kit
- Sight Adjustment Tool: Sight Pro Sight Pusher Tool
- Range Bags: Elite Survival Systems Discreet Tactical Range Bag
- Earmuffs: Walker's Razor Slim Passive Folding Earmuff
Accuracy
The Springfield Armory XD-S 9 3.3 is an impressive pistol that is well known for its pinpoint accuracy. It features a slim frame and a match grade barrel for improved accuracy and reduced vibration. The overall design also reduces felt recoil, which is especially helpful when dealing with the light recoil of the 9mm round. With an overall length of only 6.3 inches and a weight of just 21 ounces, this pistol is incredibly easy to carry and even easier to shoot. Our tests have consistently shown this pistol to shoot groups that are less than 2 inches at 7 yards and 3.5 inches at 25 yards. This is quite impressive for such a compact, lightweight firearm and it makes the XD-S 9 3.3 an excellent choice for self defense.
