SPRINGFIELD ARMORY'S XD-9 A TRUE 21ST CENTURY PISTOL

chucktaylorasaa.com ^ | 11-12-08 | Taylor

[Geoffrey]

Downside on this gun: you must engage the grip safety to rack the slide.

Other than that, it is a very good gun.

[cyclotic]

I have a XD-9 Subcompact. I’m not sure that you could rack the slide without touching the grip safety anyway, plus there is the trigger safety and the muzzle should always be in a safe direction when racking anyway.

[Solemar]

Thanks Cyclotic.

NRA was on my mind as well. Years ago when we bought a boat (pre-kids) the first thing the Mrs. and I did was join the local Power Squadron and take boating safety courses, learning basic boating skills, charting, navigation and safety.

Along the same lines, joining the NRA and taking shooting classes/spending time at a range seems to me the logical first step when purchasing a firearm.

Any tips on a good “starter” handgun/shotgun?

[Geoffrey]

I was qualifying a new shooter just last night that had the sub compact 9mm — brand new.

The grip safety is small, and it is very easy to loosen your grip enough that the grip safety does not engage while you are trying to rack the slide especially under the stress of a self defense situation. I very clearly demonstrated this to the shooter.

Of course, proper training and understanding your gun may overcome this. I personally don't like this added safety feature in a serious self defense firearm. Other than that, the firearm is excellent and priced right.

[TNPatriot]

I tried all the polymer framed guns I could find, and I chose the M&P 45.