Over the past 23 years, Springfield Armory has sold its eXtreme Duty (XD) series of polymer-framed, striker-fired handguns. The line-up expanded to include updated versions like the XD-M and XD-S, and has led to the evolution of other Springfield products, such as the Hellcat and Echelon. New for 2024, Springfield is returning to its XD roots with the Mod.3 OSP, a handgun based on the original XD architecture that is feature-rich at an affordable price.
The Springfield XD Mod.3 OSP is the latest version of the original XD design, with modern features and an affordable price.
As the “Mod.3” in the name implies, the XD Mod.3 OSP is the third variation of the original XD series. At its basis is the same striker-fired mechanism with Springfield’s Ultra Safety Assurance (USA) trigger system with a passive grip safety and polymer frame. The tail of the striker protrudes from the slide when the pistol is cocked to serve as a striker status indicator and the extractor raises when a cartridge is loaded to give a visual and tactile loaded-chamber indicator. Slide and barrel are forged steel and given a Melonite system. Magazines have a stainless steel body, a capacity of 16 rounds, are compatible with original XD9 magazines, and one is supplied with each pistol.
Mod.3 updates include updated profiles for the slide and frame, an additional slot on the accessory rail, and an OSP optics ready slide.
Chambered in 9 mm Luger, the XD Mod.3 OSP has “compact” dimensions with an overall length of 7.3” with a 4” barrel and a height of 5.5”. It weighs 27 ozs. Mod.3 updates include a redesigned frame with a new texture, undercut triggerguard and extended beavertail. A flat-faced trigger replaces the original XD’s curved design. Fore and aft slide serrations have been re-designed for better grip. Steel sights use a fiber optic insert in the front post and a dot on either side of the rear notch. The accessory rail molded into the frame’s dustcover has an additional slot to give more flexibility when mounting accessories.
Steel sights have a fiber-optic insert in the front post and two dots on the serrated rear notch.
As the OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) part of the name indicates, the XD Mod.3 OSP comes from the factory ready for electronic sights. The slide is milled to accept the company’s OSP mounting plate system and the pistol is supplied with a cover for when a red-dot sight is not installed.
With a retail price of just over $300, the XD Mod.3 OSP is a competitively priced, optics-ready handgun.
The Springfield XD Mod.3 OSP is available in two versions — one with a full-capacity 16-round magazine and a limited-capacity version supplied with a 10-round magazine. Both have an MSRP of $325, a highly competitive price point that is well below any other handguns in the company’s lineup. For more information, see the company’s website.
