Springfield Armory introduced the new XDs 4.0 to the Media Range day this year.  The XDs 4.0 is an extended barrel version of the striker fired XDs 9mm released at last year’s SHOT Show.  Still marketed towards the concealed carry audience, the XDs 4.0 has several dimension differences from the XDs 3.3 while still maintaining the sleek and compact features demanded of a concealed carry pistol.

The new Springfield XDs 4.0.

The XDs 4.0 will have the following changes over the XDs 3.3:

• Extended overall length of 0.7 inches
• Extended barrel length of 0.7 inches
• Increased weight with empty magazine of (2) ounces
• Inclusion of (1) XD-S Gear Mag X-Tension magazine.

The XDs 3.3 and 4.0 side by side comparison. How good are your eyes, can you spot the typo?

Maybe this picture from Springfield will help.

Springfield claims that the longer sight radius will help improve accuracy, and muzzle velocity.  The added length and weight will reduce felt recoil, and allow for faster follow-up shots.  The X-Tension magazine extension presents a “full size” magazine feel for greater grip confidence and control, with the benefit of two extra rounds.

A better look at the XDs 4.0 X-Tension magazine.

I was able to shoot the XDs 4.0 on the range this year.  The feel of the pistol was very similar to the XDs 3.3, but the longer barrel does present a slightly different sight picture.  The pistol I used had the standard 7-round capacity with flush fit to the handle.  The weight of the XDs 4.0 was not a factor, with only a two ounce increase.

The author shooting the XDs 4.0 at Media Day. Knocking down steel poppers at 15 yards was no problem with the XDs 4.0.

Firing the XDs 4.0 was very nice.  The trigger pull was what I expected, and the trigger was relatively smooth with a distinct break.  Trigger reset was quick and sure, with both a tactile and audible click.  Recoil may have been slightly reduced over the 3.3, but both pistols shot the 9mm well.  Neither pistol has a harsh feeling firing the 9mm.

The XDs 4.0 at Media Day.

Here are the Springfield XDs 4.0 features:

• Caliber – 9mm
• Capacity – 7+1 rounds, 9+1 rounds w/ X-Tension extended magazine
• Overall Length – 7.0 inches
• Barrel Length – 4.0 inches
• Height – 4.4 inches (the X-Tension magazine adds about 1.0 inch)
• Weight – 25 ounces w/ empty magazineGrip width – 0.9 inches
• Slide Material – Forged steel
• Frame Material – Polymer
• Barrel – Steel, Melonite treated, w/ fully supported ramp
• Sights – Fiber optic front, dovetail steel rear
• Trigger Pull – 5.5 to 7.7 pounds
• MSRP – $599 black, $699 for 2-tone

The XDs 4.0 profile.

The XDs 4.0 maintains all the same features common with the XDs series of pistols.  Those common features include the Ultra Safety Assurance (USA) Trigger System, and the Grip Safety.  The XDs will have a loaded chamber indicator, and the Fail-Safe disassembly safety.  Grip texture remains the “all-terrain” pattern with a slightly enhanced texture to assist the shooter firing the smaller pistols.  The XDs 4.0 will also have the Melonite finish to protect the slide and barrel, and will come in a Springfield gun case with the included accessories.

The Springfield XDs 4.0 still maintains a small package despite the larger barrel.

Another look at the XDs 4.0 profile.

The USA Trigger System involves a trigger bar incorporated into the trigger to prevent accidental discharge from a dropped or bumped pistol, much like a Glock.  The trigger bar must be depressed to release the trigger to complete the pull.  The grip safety must be depressed as well to allow the striker to be released for firing.  Some like it, some hate it, but it is a common Springfield safety.

The XDs 4.0 sights.

The Fail Safe Disassembly involves enhancements to the disassembly lever.  The XDs 4.0 will disassemble like all XD models, however the disassembly lever on the 4.0 cannot be manipulated with a magazine in the pistol.  In addition, if the the lever is up, a magazine cannot be inserted into the pistol.

The loaded chamber indicator is a bar on the top of the slide that raises slightly when the pistol is loaded and ready to fire.  The shooter can visually and physically check to see that the pistol is loaded, without the bar interfering with the normal sight picture.  Though not necessary, this is one of the features required in some U.S. States with stricter gun laws.  Adding this feature to all of the XDs pistols makes tooling and production easier

The XDs 4.0 in background, compared to the original XDs 3.3.

This move by Springfield surprised many, as it was believed this year would reveal the XDs in .40 S&W.  It seemed to be a natural progression to cover three of the most popular handgun calibers.

One cannot talk about Springfield’s accomplishments without acknowledging the recent recalls on XD-S pistols.  That recall has really turned into an Albatross for Springfield, as some customers have been very displeased with Springfield’s response and timeliness.  However, it is fair to point out that Springfield voluntarily recalled the pistols on what they claim is an “exceptionally rare” potential safety concern.  Springfield also claims (and I have not heard otherwise) that the safety concern on the XDs 3.3 pistols has not resulted in any injuries.

The XDs in the Springfield hard back case with included accessories.

Perhaps Springfield saw a design in the XDs 4.0 that could re-instill confidence in the XD-S line before putting out a new caliber in the same 3.3 configuration that is in recall.  Whatever the decision making process, the XDs 4.0 appears to be a fine pistol.  I said the same about the XDs .45 and XDs 9mm, because my experiences with them were very positive – though limited.  In the end you the reader and shooter must decide.  What say you?