Besides the obvious size difference between the two, I think its just a matter of preference.

I carry my Service model everyday without any problems. But I'm used to carrying a larger size gun. I also like the higher capacity of the Service vs the Sub-Compact, in 9mm its 16+1 vs 10+1.

Go to a range and rent both and see which one you like better.

 

I have the XD40 Service Model. I really think its personal preference, as to which you would like better. I also like having 12+1 on my side verses a lesser amount. I also feel a bit more confident hitting what I want to hit, using the longer barrell.
Heck, get one of both!

 

I also like the higher capacity of the Service vs the Sub-Compact, in 9mm its 16+1 vs 10+1.

I like the SC. If you get the extended magazines (16 rounds) with the sleeves, you can have both small slide and longer grip, with more rounds.

I may still buy a 4", anyway. My SC might be lonely for a friend.

 

I personally prefer to carry my Service model. To me there is something comforting about the weight and size of a full size gun. I like the Subcompact if I have to adjust for wardrobe conditions or really hot weather, like it has been lately.

 

I personally prefer to carry my Service model. To me there is something comforting about the weight and size of a full size gun. I like the Subcompact if I have to adjust for wardrobe conditions or really hot weather, like it has been lately.

+1 with Stickman483

I have both Service and Subcompact. Depends on the wardrobe and also prefer to carry my service.

 

A lot depends on how you plan to carry the pistol. I carry IWB, and it is the size of the butt, not the length of the barrel which determines comfort/concealment etc. I carry a XD SC with the shorty mag, simply because it hides really well under a teeshirt (important in Florida.)

Ironically, my other favorite summer carry gun is one of my 1911 govmt models. Again, it is butt size (1911 butts are skinny) vs barrel length.

 

I like the size of the butt on the service model...it's nothing I can't handle, and it feels just right.

 

I personally like the service model. I carry the 45 ACP service concealed everyday without a problem. Some people prefer the subbie. Definately all a matter of preference. If you can conceal the service, I see no reason not to get it for carry, unless you have other reasons for a subbie....

 

I find my SC much easier to carry and conceal. I'm so paranoid about being spotted, and the smaller pistol gives me a little more peace of mind. If I could only have one, I'd have the service, and carry it.

 

I thought I would carry an SC but thought I would try the Service model first and found that it feels fine in an IWB and at this point have no reason to switch to the smaller pistol.

 

That's easy, they don't make a .45 ACP in SC form yet, so it is the Service model for me!

Seriously, I like the size/capacity of the 4", and don't think I want nor need anything smaller.

Cheers! M2

 

I have the sub-compact in 9mm. I usually prefer a full sized gun but the XD-SC is great for a 3 inch gun. Gives you the ability to carry hi-cap or the 10 round, easy to conceal and very accurate for a SC. I switch back and forth between my M&P and the XD-SC, I would not trade for either of them.

 

Hey thanks for all of the replies guys much appriciated!

 

I chose the service model in a 40 cause it has a bit more stopping power and I rarely need more than two shots two double tap anyways. Although I am going to pick up a sc for an ankle holster.

I am also considering the tan when it comes out!

 

That's one nice thing about living in Ca. We don't have to worry about making decisions like whether to buy the sc that only holds 10 rounds or the hi cap in the service.

Ca. has decided for us by limiting everything to 10 rounds.:-x

 

I have 2 services, and if I changed size I would probably get tactical. More than likely, I will get a service of a different caliber.

 

get the service then do the grip chop......Ive been thinking about doing it to mine...but I already have a SC....so im still deciding

 

get the service then do the grip chop......Ive been thinking about doing it to mine...but I already have a SC....so im still deciding

Anyone know someone in Florida that can do the grip chop on an XD Service model?

 

Here Ill fix your problem go with the 45acp tac and that will take care of it.

 

I have the sub-compact in 9mm. I usually prefer a full sized gun but the XD-SC is great for a 3 inch gun. Gives you the ability to carry hi-cap or the 10 round, easy to conceal and very accurate for a SC. I switch back and forth between my M&P and the XD-SC, I would not trade for either of them.

Just curious Maximo:
I see you on M&P-Pistol.com forum. I have been waiting on the M&P compact to come out, just trying to decide on a 9mm or 40. Don't take this wrong, cause I REALLY like my full size M&P 40, but, I was hoping the M&P compact version would have a loaded chamber indicator like the XD, and the striker that sticks out the back. I really like those two features of the XD (I have a 4" 9mm XD with nite sites now).

In your opinion, featurewise, what do you think about the XD compact (9 or 40) versus the new M&P Compact? The M&P Compact is going to be a 3.5" barrel vs. the XD subcompact at 3". Since I really like (better) the loaded chamber indicator and the fact that the striker sticks out the back on the XD, do you think I will be unhappy if I get the M&P Compact? I have bought and sold so many guns (afterwards I decide I didn't like them as much as I thought I would) and keep loosing $100 to $175 everytime I sell them, that I have to ask as many questions as possible before I make the same mistake.

 

I went with the XD service because I liked how it felt in my hand better and I liked shooting it better. It's not much more trouble to accomidate the service model (for me)~Nathan

 

I had both a 3"and a 4" and like them both. you can get a full size mag with a sleeve for the 3" that makes the handle just like a service model when you aren't going to carry it. I actually just traded my service b/c I wasn't using it anymore. Although I was more accurate with the service model.

 

I bought and carried the Service for a year than need a re-coat .
I bought a sub-compact.
The less weight and short grip even with the extenders.
Made it my #1 carry piece.
I carry pretty much 24/7.
The service got trade for a 1911 and I added a Tac for comp.

 

Have carried the XD 40 service for the last 18 months. Like it. Have looked at the SC and like it, but not enough to fork over the $$$'s for it. Really don't need another sub (already have a few and can't think of a reason to replace them). At the cost and my intended use of a sub (strictly home defense), I'll stick with a cheap gun (less than $175) that I don't mind giving up for "evidence" if I ever have to use it.

 

The subcompact is easier to conceal and is less weight. 10+1 rounds is still a lot. You can always keep an extra magazine in the car to slip into your pocket if you go places where you think you might need more than 11 rounds.