NRA Gun Gear of the Week: Springfield Armory XD(M) 3.8-inch Compact Pistol

by
posted on September 24, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

When it comes to semi-automatic firearms designed for personal defense and concealed carry, there is no shortage of options for today’s shooters. Pistols from manufacturers big and small are available in various sizes, configurations, chamberings and with myriad features to suit the needs and preferences of individual users.

This week, Joe Kurtenbach heads to the range with the Springfield Armory XD(M) 3.8” Compact in 9 mm Luger, and he feels the gun is one of the first-tier options for a serious fighting pistol that is also easy to carry concealed. In the latter respect, Kurtenbach has some personal experience, as he’s been shooting and carrying the gun (among others) for more than two years.

The XD(M)’s dimensions, ergonomics, capacity and safety features offer users a lot of advantages. As well, the pistol—built in Croatia by HS Produkt and imported by Springfield Armory—exhibits some of the highest quality of manufacture available, no small matter when choosing a product intended to defend your life and family.

It’s a solution that works for Kurtenbach, and he heads to the range to offer his insight in the video above.

 

 






Latest

man inspecting a cartridge with a magnifying glass
man inspecting a cartridge with a magnifying glass

The Drawbacks of Being a Numbers-Oriented Gun Guy

Like any hobby or pastime that is in any way even vaguely related to machines or technology, firearms attract a (possibly) disproportionate number of “right-brained,” STEM-oriented personalities who like numbers.

First Look: MDT Hand Cannon Slingshot

Slingshots are fun, but they can also be a legitimate backup defensive tool—in 2023, a 13-year-old Michigan boy saved his 8-year-old sister from being kidnapped by using a $3 slingshot to fire a marble and a rock at the assailant, striking him in the chest and head.

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Review: 945 Industries Q.A.P. Series Off-Body Carry Bag

Off-body carry can be somewhat controversial, but choosing the right gear can go a long way toward successful carry. One good option is the Q.A.P. Series of bags from 945 Industries.

At 75, CCI is Offering Even More

In 2026, CCI Ammunition—formally Cascade Cartridge, Inc.—marks its 75th anniversary with a fitting tribute to innovation and American ingenuity.

Gun of the Week: Powder River Precision Rubicon Icon

Powder River Precision has taken the basic Ruger 10/22 rifle concept and enhanced it with its Rubicon Icon design.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.