Considering XD9 Subcompact for CCW...thoughts?

[Black Fox 13]

Hey everyone,

I'm a new member from VT and I'm starting to consider concealed carry. I've been shooting for a while, and I really like the 9mm (especially these days with ammo prices). That is to say, I'm most confident and accurate with it. I have an XD9 Tactical, and I love it to pieces. So I was thinking about getting an XD9 Subcompact. It would allow me to keep my muscle memory for training purposes, and I wouldn't have to think if I transitioned from the big brother to the little guy. I was thinking about this for a package:

XD9 Subcompact "Springerized"
Night sights (Unsure of which brand to choose... suggestions or comments?)
Light (which it will wear as a permanent attachment. Maybe the XML mini-light?)
Crimson Trace Lasergrip (which will have to come at later date due to price)
Pierce grip extension for the 10rnd mag
CCW holster (again, suggestions on brand?)

That is really my ideal setup, however, I'm not married to it or even the XD subcompact. My only requirements are this: must be 9mm, must accept a light, and must be small enough to wear with summer clothing. I'm 6'2 and weigh 165 pounds, so I'm not small, but I'm no giant. Also, something in the XD price range would be best as I'm going to put quite bit into accessories. Those of you that cc the subcompact, how does it work with light clothing, and what position do you carry? How do you feel about recoil vs the longer barrels?

[McXD]

If you shoot well with your 9mm tactical, I would definitely support your thoughts on acquiring an XD9SC for CCW purposes. Personally, I carry a Glock 21SF with a Springfield XD9SC as my back-up gun. I train mostly with my G21SF, but also train with my XD9SC in compact and full-size mode. As much as I acknowledge and agree with developing muscle memory with a particular weapon, I also believe that a person is very capable of developing muscle memory for several weapon configurations (if they train sufficiently). So, choosing an XD9SC would be a very good option for you, in my opinion.

In respect to carry methods, I use a Comp-Tac paddle holster at the 3 o'clock position for my G21SF, and my XD9SC is in a Comp-Tac crossdraw holster on my non-dominant side. Such a configuration may seem like overkill, but, it permits access to a weapon if I'm moving, sitting at a desk, in a car, inflicted with a dominant hand injury, or otherwise contorted. Instead of carrying an extra mag for my G21SF, I carry a back-up gun - a much quicker option than an emergency reload.

I'm also 6'2", weigh 200 pounds, and have no problem concealing both weapons under an unbuttoned casual shirt. On the rare days that it actually gets above 80 degrees in Minnesota, I just throw on cargo shorts/pants, and pop the XD9SC in a pocket. In my case, it's a perfect setup.

I agree with your light option (I use an Insight Technologies M3X) as long as you also train with the light attached, but I'd skip the laser and sink the money into training ammo to develop that muscle memory. It would serve you better putting a Tritium sight on the front, and blacking out the rear sight with a black Sharpie. Finally, having trained/carried a G21SF and an XD9SC, I'll say that the .45 "push" recoil vs. the "snapier" SC recoil is workable. Establish a "crush grip" when firing, and it'll melt away the differences.

For what it's worth............... you're on the right track.

[crpadiem]

In the warm months I carry an XD-9s/c and feel very confident with it. Like MCXD I carry under a shirt or in a pocket in the heat. If you like the XD and shoot well with it I don't think you can go wrong with the s/c IMO.

[mhillsing23]

Like others have said, if you enjoy your XD-9 Tactical, you will love the XD-9 SC too. My first XD was a Service model and I absolutely loved it. When I decided to CCW I went to a XD-9 SC. I couldn't be happier. It really does help to have so many features similar between the guns.

I carry and shoot my XD-9 SC with the 10 rounds mags with the Pearce grip extension. This little piece makes a world of difference in my comfort and ability to control the small gun. I was having trouble holding onto the gun when making shots with the 10 round mag and no extension, but with the extension I have full control. I think you would find that the SC is just a bit snappier than your tactical, but it isn't bad at all. As far holsters, check out the Crossbreed Supertuck. It is the best concealment holster that I have ever tried. It won't fit a rail light, but I advise against a rail light for CCW. It will fit a variety of night sights and the Crimson Trace laser grips.

Best of luck!

[Houseboat]

We make some very comfortable IWB holsters for your XD. If you do a search under Gun-works,you will see that we have a lot of satisfied customers on this forum.
Our XD holsters are all in stock and ship out the same day.
Our holster design will allow the XD to ride very low to your belt line,and we also feature a fully adjustable cant...letting you find the sweet spot for your best fit. As always, our no BS WARRANTY..and no BS way of doing business still applies. Quality Leather holsters made one at a time in the USA.
Thank You Larry

[propellerhead]

I like shooting my XD9 tac in IDPA and carrying my XD40 sub. They work well together. If I ever have to use my carry gun, there will be no fumbling. The motions I use to use the gun will be an instinct.

[digitalexplr]

You will love the 9sc! You will give up nothing in accuracy which is really surprising.

I carry my 9sc daily in a Crossbreed Quickclip the vast majority of time.

I'm not a really big fan of night sights and laser sights for the simple reason that in a SHTF situation you will be 11 feet or closer to your target and the whole situation will be in 3-5 seconds. You will not have time to turn on the laser or even get a good site picture. You will just have time to draw, point and fire.

That said, if the night sights, etc. assist you will training and practice, that alone may justify their expense.

As for the 9sc, go for it!

[edm24]

The XD9SC is a great daily carry gun. I do everyday and as the old American Express TV commercial used to say " I wouldn't leave home without it!"

[tjg4]

I am planning to buy my XD9SC today around the lunch hour. I am also going to get the IWB "Bare Asset" holster from the High Noon Holster company. Probably pick up a box of +P JHP as well.

[propellerhead]

Originally Posted by tjg4

I am also going to get the IWB "Bare Asset" holster from the High Noon Holster company.

I highly recommend the Crossbreed Supertuck. However, I have a Bare Asset that came with a gun I bought once. It hasn't been used. How much is the Bare Asset gonna cost you after tax and shipping? I can probably save you a few bucks.