SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2
Posted May 19, 2023
Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2: A Comprehensive Review
When it comes to handguns, few names have garnered a reputation as strong as Springfield Armory. With its long and storied history, the name Springfield has been associated with reliable, accurate, and quality-made firearms since 1777. In recent years, Springfield has continued to innovate and produce various handguns, such as the XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2.
The Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is a single-stack modelloaded .45 ACP pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense. It is intended to be small, light, and durable; perfect for it’s intended purpose. While this particular model is not a new release, it has become a very popular firearm, often found in various law enforcement and military holsters as well as among civilian enthusiasts. The following is an in-depth review of the Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 handgun.
Design and Features
The XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is constructed from a black polymer action housing with an ergonomic grip and a slide machined from solid steel. The addition of stippling to the grip ensures the user has a secure control of the weapon. The slide features aggressive grasping grooves for improved manipulation, and the integration of an enhanced grip safety and trigger safety ensures that unintentional firing will be significantly less likely. The XDS-45is available is multiple finishes, including matte black, olive drab green, and burnt bronze.
Besides the trigger safety, the XDS-45 also integrates a grip safety. While this increases the size of the pistol globally, it provides greater security and assurance that the gun will fire only when intended.
The 3.3 MOD 2 also features steel Novak sights that are adjustable for elevation and windage, allowing the shooter to quickly and easily acquire their target. The 3.3 MOD 2 is a double action only (DAO) handgun, meaning the trigger must be pulled completely each time to fire the gun - no double action single action (DA/SA) cycling. The trigger pull averages a relatively light 6.5 lb trigger pull, while the reset is both audible and tactile.
In terms of exterior dimension, the XDS-45 has a total length of 7.3”, with a height of 5. 6” and a width of 1.1”. The frame of the pistol is light, weighing only 22.5 ounces unloaded. The pistol features an overall barrel length of 3.3” and a capacity of 5 rounds, making it an ideal sized pistol for concealed carry.
Performance
The XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is designed for personal protection and close-contact engagements, and its performance proves that it is up to the task. The small size and light weight make it very comfortable for all day carry and the recoil is incredibly manageable and should be no trouble to deal with - even for those with less experienced shooters.
Recoil is a common concern for smaller-framed guns, but the XDS-45 shows no issues here. With a maximum muzzle velocity of over 800 fps and 14 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, the XDS-45 packs a formidable punch in a light and compact package.
Accuracy is also well represented with this pistol. Having shot many different handguns in the past, I can say that the XDS-45 is more than capable of hitting targets at various distances with precision. The trigger, while not favorable to competition shooting, is one that lends itself perfectly to defensive shooting, where accuracy is paramount.
While the XDS-45 only features a five round magazine, that can be slightly offset when you consider the number of aftermarket magazines available. Owners can purchase additional extended magazines that can hold up to 8 rounds - which can come in very handy in high pressure defensive situations.
Pros
The XDS-45 MOD 2 is a great pistol to carry for self defense. The pistol is lightweight, extremely accurate, and boasts an easy to handle low-recoil. The use of a polymer handling and steel slide make for an incredibly durable and reliable handgun that will stand up to years of use. As a single-stack modelloaded in .45 ACP, the XDS-45 has become a fan favorite for concealed carry, due to its small size. The inclusion of the safety features ensures that an accidental discharge of the gun is an incredibly rare occurrence.
Cons
While the XDS-45 may be a great choice for self defense, it may not be the best choice for competitive or recreational shooting due to its trigger. It is a DAO handgun, which means it does not feature a double action single action trigger, which is preferred by many competition shooters. The XDS-45 is also limited to five round magazines, although aftermarket magazines are available to increase the capacity.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is an excellent choice for concealed carry and self defense. It features an easy to handle low-recoil and accuracy that more than makes up for the lack of a competition-friendly trigger. The construction is top of the line and the addition of safety features ensure that accidental discharges are rare. With its small size and lightweight construction, the XDS-45 is a reliable choice for concealed high-powered self defense.
Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Lightweight design: The light weight of just 22 ounces makes the gun easy to carry and handle.
- Versatility: With its great recoil,shootability, and reliable accuracy, it is ideal for both home defense and CCW
- Quality Materials: The XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is built from the finest materials to ensure that it stands up to use in any condition.
- Reliability: Springfield Armory takes great pride in their products, and the XDS-45 is no exception. It is made to exacting standards and each component has been finely tuned and tested to provide utmost reliability.
- Easy Maintenance: The XDS-45 is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance; the slide can be removed with no tools and the all-metal frame requires minimal effort to keep in top shape.
CONS:
- Price: The XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is slightly more expensive than some of the other pistols on the market.
- Capacity: It has a seven-round magazine capacity, which is lower than many of its competitors.
- Grip: The grip of the XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is not very ergonomic and can feel uncomfortable, especially for those with larger hands.
- Trigger: The single-action trigger of the pistol is good, but may be hostile for some shooters.
Who Should Buy
Anyone with a valid gun permit should consider purchasing the Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 handgun. This quality weapon is well suited for both self-defense and recreational target shooting.
Individuals who would not be well served by the pistol include those who may be a risk to themselves or others due to mental health issues, lack of training or inability to manage the weapon safely. Children should never handle or use any firearm; the legal adult must always be the one responsible for using the gun.
Comparisons
| SPI NGFIELD | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | XDS-45 3.3 MOD2 | Glock 19 Gen 5 | XD Mod.2 .45ACP | Beretta PX4 Storm |
| Caliber | 45 ACP | 9mm Luger | 45 ACP | 9mm Luger |
| Barrel Length | 3.3” | 4.02” | 4.0” | 4.02” |
| Magazine Size | 7+1 | 15+1 | 9+1 | 17+1 |
| Weight | 21.5 oz. | 23.99 oz. | 25.0 oz. | 30.36 oz. |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Magazine Capacity: 5/6/7/8/9 rounds
• Barrel Length: 3.3"
• Sights: Fixed front sight, white-dot rear sight
• Weight (without magazine): 21 oz.
• Trigger Pull: 5–6 lbs.
• Trigger Travel: 0.5"
• Overall Height: 4.4"
• Overall Length: 6.3"
• Slide Width: 0.9"
• Grip Thickness: 1.1"
• Frame: Polymer
• Safety: Grip, manual thumb
• Finish: Armornite® and Melonite® stainless steel slide
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 are:
- Magazine Extension Base Pad
- Laser Sight
- Holster
- Trigger Guard Lock
- Magazine Spacer
- Grips
- Extended Mag Release
- Extended Slide Stop
- Fiber Optic Front Sight
- Magwell
Accuracy
The Springfield Armory XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is a highly accurate sidearm, renowned for its pinpoint accuracy and reliability. This model features the popular and reliable 1911-style design, with a smaller and lighter frame. The XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is well-suited to the concealed carry market due to its size and weight. Its accuracy and ergonomic design make it a great choice for shooters who demand precision. In fact, the XDS-45 3.3 MOD 2 is precision-machined to within a tolerance of 1/10 of an inch, ensuring the shooter a highly accurate and reliable handgun. Its five-inch barrel also gives it superior accuracy over most other handguns in its class.
