Possibly The Best Pocket Setup I’ve Ever Owned?

Published on October 7, 2023
Duration: 8:45

This review of the Springfield Armory XDS in .45 ACP highlights its compact size and ergonomic design, making it a viable option for concealed carry. The instructor emphasizes the effectiveness of Underwood Extreme Defender rounds for this platform, noting their ability to penetrate barriers while mitigating over-penetration. Despite its small capacity, the XDS is presented as a capable 'pocket rocket' for those prioritizing power in a small package.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory XDS in .45 ACP offers a compact and ergonomic design suitable for concealed carry, with a capacity of 5+1 or 6+1 rounds. For self-defense, Underwood Extreme Defender rounds are recommended for their barrier penetration and reduced over-penetration. Despite its size, the recoil is manageable and comparable to larger firearms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & First Impressions
  2. 00:13Firearm Safety Check
  3. 00:21Previous XDS Experience & Return to Platform
  4. 00:35Why .45 ACP XDS & Price Point
  5. 00:46Capacity & Ergonomics
  6. 00:59Grip Comparison & Ergonomics
  7. 00:71Sights & Rail
  8. 00:78Grip Safety & Trigger
  9. 00:86Pocket Rocket Concept & Capacity Comparison
  10. 01:08Ammunition Choice: Underwood Extreme Defender
  11. 01:22Underwood Ammo Performance & Weight
  12. 01:37Barrier Penetration Capabilities
  13. 01:53Addressing Competitor Comparisons (Hellcat, P365)
  14. 01:70Power in Small Packages
  15. 01:78Barrel Length & Ballistics
  16. 01:87.45 ACP Impact & Underwood Ammo
  17. 01:96Aftermarket Support & Reliability
  18. 02:06Past Recalls & Current Reliability
  19. 02:16Trigger Assessment
  20. 02:25Trigger Feel & Comparison
  21. 02:31Shootability & Predictability
  22. 02:38Texturing & Overall Ergonomics
  23. 02:45Grip Safety Functionality
  24. 02:50Grip Safety in Emergency Situations
  25. 02:57Grip Safety Compression Requirement
  26. 02:64Importance of Proper Grip
  27. 02:74Shooting Fundamentals
  28. 02:79Initial Range Experience & Reliability
  29. 02:87Ammunition Shot (Hollow Points & HSTs)
  30. 02:92Flawless Performance & Finish
  31. 02:98Comparison to Hellcat Finish
  32. 03:03Video Length Disclaimer
  33. 03:08Context: Daughter's Birthday Party
  34. 03:13First Impressions Summary & Main Carry Status
  35. 03:19Extended Magazine Possibility
  36. 03:24Potential 8-Round .45 ACP Setup
  37. 03:34Holster Availability
  38. 03:39Sight Compatibility
  39. 03:44Existing Holster for XDS
  40. 03:52Carrying the XDS
  41. 03:57Ordering Larger Magazine
  42. 03:62Comfortable Carrying
  43. 03:68Capacity Sufficiency & Training
  44. 03:74Recoil Discussion (Single Stack)
  45. 03:80Recoil Comparison: XDS .45 vs. Glock 39 .45 GAP
  46. 03:86.45 GAP Cartridge Description
  47. 03:95Cartridge Size Comparison
  48. 04:00Ballistic Equivalence
  49. 04:04Recoil Comparison Conclusion
  50. 04:15Advantages of XDS .45 ACP
  51. 04:21Preference: Glock 39 vs. XDS .45
  52. 04:25XDS .45 Features: Rail & Optics Ready
  53. 04:29Optic Mounting & Use Cases (Jogging, Biking)
  54. 04:38.45 ACP as 'God's Round'
  55. 04:46Personal Preference for Caliber
  56. 04:52Capacity Sufficiency & Training (Revisited)
  57. 04:65Call to Action: Like & Comment
  58. 04:71XDS Platform Reputation
  59. 04:78Discussion: Low Round Count vs. Revolvers
  60. 04:83Revolver Advantages & Disadvantages
  61. 04:90Revolver Timing Issues vs. XDS
  62. 05:00Out of Battery Risk
  63. 05:06Mag Changes vs. Revolver Cylinders
  64. 05:10Video Conclusion: XDS in .45
  65. 05:15Next Up: HK DP9SK
  66. 05:22Thanks for Watching

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Springfield Armory XDS in .45 ACP?

The Springfield Armory XDS in .45 ACP typically comes with a flush-fit magazine holding 5 rounds and an extended magazine holding 6 rounds, for a total of 5+1 or 6+1 capacity.

What ammunition does the instructor recommend for the XDS .45 ACP?

The instructor highly recommends Underwood Extreme Defender rounds, specifically the 135-grain variant, for their ability to penetrate barriers effectively while minimizing over-penetration in self-defense scenarios.

How does the recoil of the XDS .45 ACP compare to other firearms?

Despite its compact size and single-stack design, the recoil of the XDS in .45 ACP is described as very minimal and comparable to heavier, thicker firearms like a Glock 39 chambered in .45 GAP.

What are the advantages of the Springfield Armory XDS platform?

The XDS platform benefits from extensive aftermarket support due to its long presence in the market, ensuring availability of holsters and accessories. It's also noted for its reliability and ergonomic design, particularly in the .45 ACP variant.

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