Which one, 4" or 5"?

[Trumpet]

Hey all,
Well, in addition to picking up a DSA StG58 carbine next week, I'll likely pick up a XD45 (my first one). I'll be getting it for $549, not a spectacular price, but I'd rather support the local "brick and mortar" shop, so I don't mind paying a little extra. Anyhoo, I'm a bit undecided as to which length to get. I know the 5" has the extra sight radius, and the 4" is better for concealment. I'm not a "gamer" per se, and CCW isn't an option in MD , so that leaves me asking; is one length flat out better than an other when it comes to reliability or anything else? If you could only have one length, what would you have?

Thanks
Rich

[Loves2Shoot]

If I could only have one I would be sad

But, the 4" is better balanced, the 5" has more sight radius and will give you more velocity, so I guess it comes down to what is important to you. Best of luck.

[Nerves]

I am not an XD expert; As a matter of fact, the XD 45 ACP is my first XD pistol, so please take my suggestion very lightly. I can tell you that my XD 45 ACP has now gone through 1550 + rounds of everything I could think off. Mypurpose was to make it fail. to this date 1550 + rounds and NOT a single failure!!!

I've NEVER seen this before, at least in recent times. I just had Truglo TFO installed and this weekend I will test them. the gun with the stock sight shoots to the left and low.

The XD system is an excellent platform. I for one am happy with my XD, and it has change my mind on Polymer.

[Trumpet]

That's why I'm going with one. I'm a BIG 1911/BHP guy (see avatar) so the XD may be the perfect tupperware for me (although I do enjoy my G19 and USP). I'm just unsure of what length to get.

[Nerves]

I not sure that this comment of mine will add to your decision, but I for one, when I find myself in that process, I look at the weapon, for tactical value, meaning, if all fails, how else would I use this weapon for?

Home Defense might be on of those options. Like your self, I'm a 1911 guy. Wilson Combat, Kimber, Para, etc. But I choose the Service because I can Carry it (CWL) (I understand your in MD) and it can double as a Home Defense weapon.

Outside of the CCW factor, the tactical would do the same..., so think of resale (I know I'm reaching here (I don't sell or trade my guns)) but, those are some thoughts.

[RobFMJ]

I liked the feel of the 4" moreso than the tactical... May be just me, but the tactical felt almost awkwardly balanced. 4" was the one for me, YMMV.

[Boricua]

As always the decision will be up to you. I picked the Tac, my reasoning was it is the same butt, which is the hardest part to conceal so the barrel length is a plus. If you can handle both it might help you decide, either way you will be getting one heck of a gun.

[Zinji]

My XD .45 is my first handgun also. I went with the Tactical version because I'm building my collection with home defense in mind first. I bought a M6X light/laser combo to mount on the rail and I must say it looks pretty slick. This gun will be kept in my skivvy drawer ready to go at a moment's notice. However, I likely will also get the Service version soon for concealed carry.

[snolden]

Plan for the future. You could move to a state that allows CCW OR you could travel to one with a non resident CCW permit. Would you CCW this pistol or do you have another pistol that fits that usage better. IF you plan to CCW it ever get the 4". It clears leather a lot easier.]


On the other hand MD might, just maybe go shall issue and then you would be able to carry.

[O.C. 4 U]

I'd say go with the tactical if it's for home defense. You get a few more fps out of the longer barrel and a longer sight radius. Plus if you do carry it, the added barrel length doesn't make it any harder to conceal when carrying IWB. By the time MD passes shall issue CCW, springfield will probably have a sub-compact 45 out. (hell, they'll probably have a 10mm by that time)