NRA Gun of the Week: Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5” OSP Threaded

American Rifleman Staff

posted on November 6, 2020

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The XD-M Elite 4.5” OSP Threaded pistol from Springfield Armory is fully featured and derived from a proven striker-fired platform. This latest iteration XD-M provides shooters with myriad enhancements that elevate the XD-M series to its highest level yet. Between the gun’s Cerakote finish and color-matched polymer frame, there are upgrades at every corner of Springfield Armory’s XD-M Elite 4.5” OSP.

Right side tan pistol with text on image noting make and model

Since this latest iteration of the XD-M pistol is built to accommodate optics, adapter plates are included as well. Dovetailed to the forged-steel slide is a square-notch rear sight that features glare-reducing serrations, as does the post front unit. The sights are raised to co-witness with optics and provide adequate height when used in conjunction with a silencer. Springfield provides a 5.28”, match-grade steel barrel that is threaded 1/2x28 t.p.i.

pistol sights with optic plate on white background

A performance-enhancing trigger is included here, too. Springfield calls it the Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly (META). Compared to previous Springfield XD-M triggers, the META provides a flat-faced shoe versus a curved face that is employed on standard XD-Ms. American Rifleman staff found that the unit provides a smooth pull with a consistent and crisp sear break.

Tan pistol, black trigger. white background

The XD-M platform allows shooters to get a high grip—an undercut trigger guard and high-cut radius along at the top of the backstrap are provided—that reduces muzzle rise and allows for smooth shot-to-shot transitions. There is no manual safety lever to operate on this gun, instead a grip safety is positioned at the top of the backstrap and a passive blade-in trigger shoe safety is provided. An accessory rail is provided along the dust cover for those who need it.

Muzzle of tan pistol on white background.

Watch our NRA Gun of the Week video above to learn more about the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5” OSP Threaded Handgun.

Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 4.5” OSP Threaded Handgun Specifications
Importer: Springfield Armory
Action Type: striker-fired, semi-automatic, center-fire pistol
Chambering: 9 mm Luger
Slide: forged steel, FDE Cerakote finish
Frame: FDE polymer
Barrel: 5.28” steel, threaded 1/2x28 t.p.i.
Trigger: META, 5-lb., 2.5-oz. pull
Sights: dovetailed; raised, square-notch rear, post front
Magazine: 22-round detachable box
Height: 5.9”
Length: 8.6”
MSRP: $709
springfield-armory.com

Further Reading:

Tested: Springfield Armory’s XD-M OSP in 10 mm Auto

The Springfield's XD(M) 5.25

Review: Springfield 911 9mm

Pint-Size Pair: Springfield Armory's Saint Edge PDW & EVAC

Tested: Springfield Armory’s Hellcat

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