XDS 3.3 vs 4.0

[esizer]

Hey all!

I've been considering an XDS in 9mm for a new CCW but am sort of torn between the 3.3 and the 4.0.

For pure CCW purposes, the 3.3 is a no brainer...but the 4.0 seems to step up to a multi-purposed firearm.

Anyone have experience with both barrel lengths?

My previous carry was a P938 which was great for pocket carry but the 4.0 would probably bump into the IWB category.

[Irving]

What do you mean by multi-purposed? What would you do with the longer barrel that you wouldn't with the shorter one?

[esizer]

What do you mean by multi-purposed? What would you do with the longer barrel that you wouldn't with the shorter one?

Multi-purposed in the sense that it would be more suitable for both CCW and HD. The difference in barrel length is fairly negligible in ballistic performance but the 4.0 would offer a slightly longer sight radius plus a smidge more rail space for slapping on a light before it goes in the nightstand at night.
I'm also curious if people that have owned/shot both lengths find one to be better balanced, the handling between the two, etc.

I'm not planning on doing anything outside the realistic realms of the handgun POU, just gathering some opinions.

[Irving]

I'd be surprised if the 4.0 wasn't more comfortable to shoot.

[alan0269]

I've shot both in 45, and there is negligible difference between the two in comfort of doing so. The 4.0 is, in my opinion, slightly too long to pocket carry, while the 3.3 seems to be adequately compact to do so. As you said in your original post, the 4.0 is more of an IWB carry than pocket carry. I will add that putting on a Talon grip does significantly ease the harshness of the aggressive grip texture of the XD-s and make it more enjoyable to shoot.

[ray1970]

I had the shorter one in 45ACP. It was surprisingly pleasant to shoot.

I can't compare it to the longer barreled version but you're talking less than 3/4" difference.

Honestly, there are other options out there that will make a much better "multi purpose" handgun.

The XDS is a very small handgun. About the size of the Glock 43, S&W Shield, Ruger LC9, etc.

[blacklabel]

I'd opt for the 4.0. I don't pocket carry and would appreciate the longer sight radius. I've been tempted to pick one up but I love my M&P too much to switch at this point.

[TheSparkens]

I have and do carry the subcompact in 40 cal. and I can't miss with this gun. I recently put on the talon grips for traction control and love them except they stick to all my shirts.

[esizer]

I ended up going with the 3.3 because I wanted to have less excuses to not carry. It is a very comfortable firearm with great ergonomics so far. I'm looking forward to getting on the range with it.

[osok-308]

I ended up going with the 3.3 because I wanted to have less excuses to not carry. It is a very comfortable firearm with great ergonomics so far. I'm looking forward to getting on the range with it.

I don't think you will regret the 3.3. I love mine in .45! The XDs is a solid pistol.

[esizer]

I don't think you will regret the 3.3. I love mine in .45! The XDs is a solid pistol.

It definitely feels great in the hand. Plus the promotion right now for an additional two magazines, range bag, and mag holder makes it a great buy.

I went with the "essentials" package for $395 shipped from Bud's.

[alan0269]

Plus the promotion right now for an additional two magazines, range bag, and mag holder makes it a great buy.

If you have a scanner, fill out the rebate form online. I did about a month ago, and I had my goodies in exactly one week.

[cysoto]

My previous carry was a P938...

Personally, I'd rather carry the P938 than the XDs. Sig's a better pistol (just one man's opinion).

[esizer]

Personally, I'd rather carry the P938 than the XDs. Sig's a better pistol (just one man's opinion).

I really enjoyed the P938, it was a great handgun. However, I needed to put some money in the bank so I ended up selling it and getting something more affordable.

[cysoto]

I certainly understand and respect your decision. Being that this is the case, if I was in your shoes trying to decide between the 3.3" & the 4.0" version, I would most probably be inclined to go with the shorter of the two. Mainly because my preferred method of carry is appendix and the 3.3" would be a more comfortable choice. Also, outside of a bit longer sight radius and maybe an additional 30 fps, I don't see what other advantages would the 4.0" offer.

In any case, I also believe that Springfield has demonstrated that the XD series of pistols is quite durable so either choice would be a good one.

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