Several years go there was a considerable surge in demand for concealable semi-automatic firearms. And while there were plenty of options available chambered in .380 ACP, many who were seeking a personal-defense handgun would have preferred a more powerful chambering or additional rounds. For that reason, many firearm manufacturers reprised their earlier success with small, single-stacks chambered in 9 mm Luger. 
But in 2012, Springfield Armory introduced the XD-S, a subcompact, polymer-frame single-stack that measures 1"x4.4"x6.3" and weighs 21.5 ozs. Those numbers alone would not be particularly impressive were it not for the fact that the XD-S is chambered in one of America’s most respected defensive handgun cartridges: the .45 ACP. That places the newest XD nearly in a class by itself, and was American Rifleman's 2013 Golden Bullseye winner for Handgun of the Year. Watch more in this American Rifleman TV segment on the Springfield XD-S.
Video: Springfield's XD-S in .45 ACP
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System & Modular Hunting Vest: The Cure for The Common Sling
Among a hunter’s most basic equipment is their sling. The Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System and Modular Hunting Vest seeks to revolutionize this.
Steyr Goes LTT: The Langdon Tactical ATD
Langdon Tactical Technology is in the business of fine-tuning a number of popular handguns on the market, and the company's latest offering is based on the recently introduced Steyr Arms ATD.
Smith & Wesson Acquires Savage Arms
In a stock and cash transaction valued at $160 million, Smith & Wesson announced it has acquired Savage Arms.
Rifleman Review: Taurus Raging Hunter in 350 Legend
The Taurus Raging Hunter is designed for field use, and one of the latest versions incorporates a great straight-walled cartridge designed for taking game: the 350 Legend.
SAAMI Formally Introduces 5.56 Commercial Cartridge Standard
SAAMI has formally standardized the 5.56 Commercial cartridge as introduced by Hornady Mfg., a designation that provides universally agreed-upon commercial dimensions for the popular 5.56 NATO cartridge.
I Have This Old Gun: Colt’s 1849 London Pocket
Encouraged by his generally positive reception at the Great Exhibition in 1851, and always anxious to gain elusive government contracts, Colt, in 1853, opened a London factory where he would make a number of revolvers, including his popular 1849 Pocket Model.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
