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
Short & Classic: Auto-Ordnance M1 Carbine SBR
While many short-barreled rifles available today are based on the latest designs, there are a few classic models in the mix, too, such as Auto-Ordnance's M1 Carbine SBR.
Review: Garmin Xero C2 Chronograph
Garmin doubled down and, hot off the introduction of its Xero C1 chronograph, introduced its next-generation Xero C2, which provides some added capabilities and features over the original.
The "Nub Sub:" KelTec's Ultra-Compact SUB-SDP
KelTec is expanding its SUB2000 line yet again with the SUB-SDP, a foldable, braced pistol that KelTec folks colloquially refer to as the "Nub Sub."
Gun of the Week: EAA Girsan Witness2311 CMXX
One of the latest options in EAA's line of 2011-style handguns is the Witness2311 CMXX, which incorporates a large, single-port compensator at the muzzle end.
The Armed Citizen® July 24, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Review: Freedom Ordnance FM-9D
New small arms with groundbreaking designs are rare in an industry where new products tend to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Fortunately, Freedom Ordnance marches to the beat of a different drum and invested its creative energy into developing the unique, innovative FM-9D.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
