It’s XD-E day ninjas!

A few weeks ago, I was invited to the Springfield Armory secret squirrel product unveiling. Finally, today, on the holiest of NRA days, we can reveal the magic about the XD-E, Springfield’s all-new DA/SA polymer pistol chambered in 9mm.

Note: This is just a quick look at the new hotness. My full review will be published over the weekend and appear in Monday’s Digest. So, stay tuned for that.

Specs

Chambering: 9mm

Barrel: 3.3 inches

A Length: 6.75 inches

Weight: 23 oz

Frame: Polymer

Sights: Fiber Optic front, low profile rear

Finish: Melonite

Capacity: 9+1, 8+1

Width: 1 inch

MSRP: $519

The “E” in XD-E

The “E” in XD-E stands for “External,” as in external hammer. There is a significant portion of the market that really prefers this option and doesn’t trust strikers. This same segment tends to really prefer a mechanical safety as well, and Springfield Armory has delivered.

The XD-E is slightly larger than the XD-S, reflecting Springfield’s mastery of small gun ergonomics. A hammer, a safety, and a decocking lever are a lot to cram in a package that small, but they have succeeded. The large magazines for an XD-S fit the new gun, which saves some coins if you have both.

We Have A Shooter!

This is a gun you have to shoot to believe. I generally don’t prefer DA/SA guns, but this one runs like a scalded cat. If you are in the market for a carry gun, I strongly suggest you run a magazine or two through this one before you decide what to buy.

Currently available in 9mm only, capacity is 8+1 or 9+1 depending on the magazine. It retains the slim width of the XD-S, with just a little more height. It’s an easy comparison for me since the XD-S has been my carry gun for almost 4 years.

In a holster, the difference between the XD-S and the XD-E is negligible. On that positive note, Springfield has teamed with CrossBreed Holsters so there is a concealed carry option on day one.

At the event, I ran this Supertuck holster on a CrossBreed belt with friction lock all day, and I like the setup. There is some crossover with existing holsters in the CrossBreed lineup since the frame and slide are so similar, but new options will also be available.

As mentioned, this just a quick look at the XD-E. My full review is coming out soon, so please check back.

Don’t forget to shop for the new XD-E and other Springfield products on GunsAmerica.