Springing to the Bottom: XD Mod.3

What is the bottom? The term can vary in meaning and usually generates a negative connotation. But what does that mean in the gun world? I think the “bottom” is the balance of value and performance. It seems manufacturers are churning out increasingly expensive options that challenge the status quo of what the best gun is. But what about everyone else? All those that need a weapon that’s dependable and reliable but offers modern features of pistols that cost double or more in price. A workingman’s sidearm doesn’t break the bank but is ensured to work during a climatic event. We’ve seen various companies introduce pistols such as this. Ones that come to mind are Taurus with the G3C and GX4, Smith & Wesson with the SD9 2.0, and Palmetto State Armory’s Dagger line of pistols. Another major player is introducing something to the “bottom” of the firearms market: Springfield Armory.

XD

The line of XD pistols from Springfield Armory (built for them by HS Produkt in Croatia) has been around for a decade and a half. To be honest, this pistol has generated more memes than any pistol on the market. From its Grip Zone moniker, quirky looks, and recognizable grip safety, the XD has had its moments. Recently, Springfield has moved away from the XD line to focus on the Hellcat and Echelon lines of pistols. These are much improved and offer modern features and styling most look for. However, the price started to soar. Springfield, to not disassociate a large part of their market, has reintroduced the XD, this time as the MOD.3.

MOD.3

Springfield’s MOD.3 is reminiscent of MOD.2 but updated in styling and features. First and foremost, Springfield has removed the “Grip Zone” moniker! Now, some may no longer know where to hold the pistol (tongue-in-cheek), however, the “memery” of the gun has been removed. First, the MOD.3 has moderate to aggressive stippling that creates a sticky grip, as well as pronounced serrations on the slide for positive control in adverse conditions. This equals improved ergonomics. The flat-faced trigger is also a nice upgrade and is something many manufacturers are switching to. Hopefully, it has a positive rather than a mushy wall and reset. The pistol retains a passive grip safety, a tactile loaded chamber indicator, and a striker-status indicator. While many ardent enthusiasts will turn their nose to these safety measures, those newer to firearms or maybe not as involved in the lifestyle will find these features alluring. Finally, the slide is optics-ready. Springfield’s optic cut will utilize plates for the most popular options. I guess these must be bought separately or redeemed from Springfield.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the big deal? The overview of the MOD.3 isn’t dissimilar to several handguns already on the market. But what separates it is its price: MSRP $325. That’s a ton of value for a pistol in 2024. To keep pricing low, Springfield ships the gun with one 16-round magazine (I argue they could ship two with the gun and still be at this price, but I digress) and a relatively basic package compared to Springfield’s other offerings. However, this could be one of the best budget options on the market. I imagine street pricing will fall under $300. The pistol will be released by the time you are reading this article.