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
How the Trump Administration is Reforming the ATF
After more than a year of review, the DOJ, and its sub-agency, the ATF, released 34 notices of final and proposed rules to eliminate infringements on Americans’ Second Amendment rights.
A Tale of Two Grips: Building Beyond the First Shot
Every shooter has two grips living inside them, and most never realize it until they are exposed by a timer.
Roni Corporation Establishes U.S.-Based Manufacturing
Roni Corporation—designer and manufacturer of the Micro Roni, PDW-style pistol-to-carbine conversion kits and other firearm accessories—has established U.S.-based operations and manufacturing in Houston, Texas.
PenFed Credit Union Reports Strong Q1 Growth in 2026
Continuing its record of positive growth over the last several years, NRA partner PenFed Credit Union reported increases in capital and liquidity, earning growth and credit quality through the first quarter of 2026.
I Have This Old Gun: Model 1884 Trapdoor Springfield
The U.S. military's first official breechloading service rifle was the Trapdoor Springfield, and of the line of guns that saw use throughout the late 19th century, one of the most refined was the Model 1884 Trapdoor.
A Retro Python: The Pietta Blacktooth Revolver
As the company did with the original Colt Single Action Army, Pietta sought to reproduce the Colt Python as closely to the original as possible with its new Blacktooth revolver.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
