Soon to be new to the XD world

[OutlawFX4]

Howdy!

First let me say that this site has a plethora of information! Almost too much for a newbie like me to digest. I hate for my first post in a forum to barrage all of the veterans on here with questions, but after searching for hours, i feel that I've taken two steps backwards from so much information. So I'm just going to post my questions here and hope that you guys can put me in the right direction.

First off, I have decided on the XD Service 4" 9mm to be the gun of choice, I've shot almost every XD pistol, and decided that the 4" would be the best fit for me. So my question is, should I go with the regular kit, or the Essentials kit? Its a $45 difference between the two at the local gun shop, and I'm wondering if the $45 is worth it for the standard gun holster, mag holster, and mag loader.

Secondly, if I decide to go with an Essentials kit and purchase a holster separately, what would be a good holster to go with? I have no intentions of concealed carry, and would only be carrying when I'm out hunting, just to have a sidearm ready incase I happen upon a rattler or something of that nature. So I think i would be more interested in a holster that sits outside of my belt, but with so many brands out there, I really dont know where to start looking.

And lastly, how should I care for my XD? I'm new to the pistol world completely, and wanting to know if there is any preventative maintenance I should do when I first purchase the pistol to prevent any buildup. Also, are there any cleaning kits out there that are better than the others, or should I piece a kit together? If I decided to piece a kit, what components would be best to keep my pistol in top shape?


Again, sorry for the long post, but I just want to make sure that I am prepared for my purchase.

Thanks,
OutlawFX4

[GerryM]

If I were you I would go with the basic kit. Take a look at Blade-Tech for holster ..

There are a large number of holsters that will work. For a mag loaded, go with UpLula and for mag holders look at Fobus

[OutlawFX4]

Thanks for the recommendations!

[richeyo2]

Really up to you if you want the Essentials kit or not.
Blackhawk makes some decent OWB holsters, so does CrossBreed & alot of others just depends on what you want to spend. You'll get a thousand different responses on cleaning kits, oils, etc... Bottom line if you just keep it cleaned & lightly lubed it'll last you for ever. Good luck on your choices.

[pioneer]

Outlaw FX4. You made an excellent choice of handgun to buy. I bought my XD a bit over a year ago after careful consideration and comparison. I decided to go with the .40 caliber sub-compact with factory installed night sights. I also went with the full-meal-deal with holster, mag carrier and mag reloading tool. So far, the only one of those that I actually use is the reloading tool. My decision was made based on my personal experience and preferences after 40+ years of concealed carry. For anyone to recommend a particular holster or options, is similar to making a recommendation about what kind of car you should get, and with what options.

As for holsters, most every shooter I've known has at least one large cardboard box filled with "perfect" holsters, which at the time seemed like the right one to buy. There are so many types, brands, materials, body types and security options, no one but you will be able to make a selection that is right for you.

With most things gun related, the decisions you make now will likely be temporary. Not all holsters work for all shooters, and different options may be loved by some and scorned by others. It's all very personal. I could recommend brands and types, but just because they may work for me, doesn't mean they will for you. See if you can find a gun shop / friend who has a good supply of holsters to try for yourself.

Some folks will recommend inside the waist band holsters (IWB), outside the waist band (OWB), small of back, shoulder holster, ankle rig, pocket holsters, etc, etc. Good luck and welcome aboard

[geckohawaii88]

Good Choice! I would just get the gun. Then you can customize your accessories.

[Bamaxd9]

You'll love it.

[lethal205]

As for the holster, since you don't plan on carrying concealed, a Blackhawk SERPA might be a good option. It's relatively inexpensive as far as holsters go, offers an acceptable amount of retention while still offering a quick draw and comes in a variety of styles.

I wouldn't really recommend the essentials kit as the holster and mag pouch that come with it aren't really that great and you'll wish you put the money towards a quality holster/mag pouch/mag loader (even though the mag loader in the essentials kit is totally fine).

I won't really delve into how to clean it since there are tons upon tons of Youtube videos out there illustrating how to clean pistols. The only thing I will say and you should absolutely follow is this: DO NOT USE OILS OR GREASE ON THE STRIKER FIRING CHANNEL!!! If you do, you run the risk of having dirt and grime build up in front of the firing pin and causing FTF's due to possible light primer strikes. All I really use to clean mine is a Jag and a Copper Brush with some CLP or Bore Cleaner

[cjacob]

Save the $45, and unless you plan to carry, forget a holster. Get a range bag with the $45.

[3shot]

Welcome to the forums!

As far as a holster..........
You'll wind up with several probably anyway.