Springfield Armory XDE-3.3 9mm

I tested the Springfield Armory XD-E 3.3 at the CMP range yesterday.  I am a fan of Springfield Armory, one of my favorite pieces is my Range Officer 911 in .45ACP. 

I like many of the features of this handgun.  I was looking for a handgun that would be a good carry piece for my daughter.  The safety features were one of the primary considerations.  This handgun is a subcompact 9mm and it has a double/single action trigger.  I have striker fired weapons, however I prefer the hammer fired guns and, in this case, it allows multiple options to safely carry.  It features an ambidextrous thumb safety/decocker which allows it to be carried fully cocked with the safety on and to be able to safely decock without pulling the trigger.  The exposed hammer provides a visual reference to what mode the weapon is being carried in.  The hammer fired action allows for racking and charging with ease compared to striker fired weapons.  The low effort slide requires 27% less effort compared to a striker fired pistol.  There is a bar on the top of the action that is raised when charged giving another visual reference to indicate the weapon has a round in the chamber.   Field stripping is simple and easy. It features fiber optic sights with white dot rear sights and an accessory rail where a laser sight can be installed.  It comes with two magazines, one a single stack 8 round and the extended magazine that holds 9 rounds.   

The XD-E 3.3 is 6.76” long and had a 1” grip width.  The barrel is 3.3” inches.  It has a nice profile for a concealed carry gun. 

On the range my daughter was able to quickly learn all the safety features; she had no problems racking the gun and found field stripping easy.  With the grip being only 1” in width it was an easy fit for her hand.  The trigger pull was crisp and the recoil pleasant.  The XD-E shot accurately and without issue.  Overall, I am pleased with this handgun; Springfield Armory did a superb job in designing the piece.  I have since learned that is also chambered in .45ACP and I am anxious to give that one a try!