On Aug. 28 Springfield Armory initiated a voluntary recall that rubbed some gun bloggers the wrong way. I’m not defending the company or indicting the critics, just warning you that doing a Google search will probably only confuse the issue if you own one of the affected handguns.
The notice explains, “Springfield has determined that under exceptionally rare circumstances, some 3.3 XD-S 9 mm and .45 ACP caliber pistols could experience an unintended discharge during the loading process when the slide is released, or could experience a double-firewhen the trigger is pulled once. The chance of these conditions existing is exceptionally rare, but if they happen, serious injury or death could occur.”
There’s not much grey area in that statement, so take a look to see if your XD-S has a serial number that falls within the recall range. No injuries have been reported. The company’s popular XD and XD(M)s are not affected.
I’m a big fan of Springfield Armory and its products. That makes my opinion somewhat jaded, but I like the way the company moved early, fast and often. OK, not often. According to one blogger a customer-service rep at Springfield said this is their first recall. That’s a pretty amazing record in itself.
I have an XD in 9 mm and that thing refuses to choke, cough, sputter or even complain about my lack of maintenance. I wish I had two. The company makes great products, from utilitarian striker-fired handguns to the deadly reliable EMP too good looking to conceal. Reviews of the XD-S have been pretty sterling, as well.
Regardless how fast or slow Springfield Armory moved, though, many gun owners would complain. This industry’s safety record is enviable, and the manner in which the few recalls are handled reflects well on the professionals at each company’s helm.
Don’t take my word for it, though. Visit this government website dedicated to vehicular recalls, cosmetics, drugs and even food. Then of course there’s the Consumer Safety Product Commission page, and probably 1,000 more, and in most cases I seriously doubt the company will pay shipping, and keep you up to date like Springfield Armory is doing every Friday on its FAQ.
Gun owners have never had it better in regard to products, warranties and service. It’s easy to forget that sometimes.
