Springfield XD(M) 3.8

The XD(M) 3.8 performed very well with several factory loads, especially the Speer Gold Dot. The author recommends working on basic shooting skills to squeeze the most accuracy out of polymer guns.

The recently announced XD(M) series features concentrated attention to detail and a sleeker profile and slide than the standard XD. The latest version, the XD(M) 3.8 featured in this article, sports a match-grade, 3.8-inch barrel that enhances the pistol's accuracy. I fired the XD(M) 3.8 extensively at both steel plates and from the bench and found the accuracy to be quite good. I also shot a 1.5-inch test group from a rest at 25 yards, proving that the match-grade barrel was a real augmentation.

The pistol's Minimal Reset Trigger has the shortest travel of any currently available polymer pistol, which makes it easier to stay on target for fast, accurate follow-up shots.

The XD(M) comes with a rugged Melonite finish, applied by a salt bath nitriding process that leaves a thick, corrosion-resistant, hard surface. The traditional black oxide finishes seen on many pistols are a few millionths of an inch thick and offer little corrosion resistance.

The XD(M) is the largest capacity production polymer pistol in both the .40 caliber and 9mm, respectively, accommodating 16+1 and 19+1 rounds. Considering how good this pistol feels in the hand, it's unbelievable that it actually holds so much ammunition. With the shorter 3.8-inch barrel, the XD(M) is a great choice for concealed carry.