XDM45 - compact or full size/service?

[adamjay]

In getting my last SSE slot ready...

I have decided on the XDM .45 4.5". I now have to choose between the compact and the full-size/service grip frames. I see that the compact can also take the extended grip magazine, essentially matching the dimensions of the full size/service grip frame. As I always value versatility, this option looks the best to me. I would like to ask any of those in the know if there is any reason not to choose the compact. I have read some reports of pinching of the hand during extended magazine insert with the compact, but I'm not too worried about that. Any other issues?

Functions I wish to fulfill with the firearm:
Range play (usually 1911), HD (I have others), sometime ccw (I have others), and maybe competition(beginner).

Mostly, I want this gun as a full-size, big bore, full cap, badas* battle pistol.

So, what say you? Any reason to NOT choose the compact?

Thanks, team!

[SurferSeth]

Get the 4.5" for full size or 3.8" for compact. The mag extentions on the 3.8 are OK, but don't feel solid like a full size grip would. The full size grip (not mag extention) on the 3.8" just seems kinda silly to me. The 4" service is the XD, not the XDM.

[adamjay]

Get the 4.5" for full size or 3.8" for compact. The mag extentions on the 3.8 are OK, but don't feel solid like a full size grip would. The full size grip (not mag extention) on the 3.8" just seems kinda silly to me. The 4" service is the XD, not the XDM.

Yes, I am def getting the 4.5" (OP corrected)
The ONLY reason I am considering the compact is so I can better use it for CC, otherwise I would def just get the full size. Your coment is appreciated, thank you.

XDM is the upgraded version of the XD, both are available in compact, full size, etc

http://www.springfield-armory.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Catalog_2014.pdf

[iluvmycolt]

Mostly, I want this gun as a full-size, big bore, full cap, badas* battle pistol.

Go with the 4.5

[TeeMan]

I'd split the difference and get the regular XD .45 compact 4". It comes with the extended mag that essentially turns it into the XD .45 full size. Best of both worlds, plus it's on-roster so you can use your SSE slot for something else.

Honestly unless you really need the changeable backstrap there isn't much difference between the XD and XDM. Not enough to burn an SSE slot on anyway, IMO.

[SurferSeth]

The compact is the 3.8 (also comes in full size grip), the 4.5" doesn't have a compact grip, or grip extention, that I am aware of. I have the 4.5" .45 ACP and love it. You could always get the XDsc (on roster) or an xds (sse or ppt) for cc.

[heidad01]

The OP states he wants it to bad a BA battle gun. I think that makes it an easy pick. I would never take a compact gun to battle nor do I want to be in a gun fight of any sort with a compact gun.

[5ZS]

P320 with a full size .45 caliber x-kit.

Just get a XD compact or tactical next year.

[adamjay]

P320 with a full size .45 caliber x-kit.

Just get a XD compact or tactical next year.

Yes, the Sig P320 is a great option, thanks for bringing that up for me to revisit. It appears it is not yet available in .45ACP which is what I want- God only knows when the .45 x-kit will become available, and it will add $300+ to the cost. That would be a way to get the different grip frame flexibility, though (modular) if I chose to explore that. That would be a better use of the SSE slot and... It's a Sig. I will likely go this route. Just have to keep shooting the 1911 until the .45 x-kit is available. Damn SSE deadline!

I think you guys are right, I need to focus on a full size for this BA battle pistol, anything else would be dissatisfying.

Thanks for your input everyone, really helps to have an educated sounding board!