XD-E — It’s Hammer Time!

By Yamil Sued Posted in #Guns

The first time I spent real trigger time with the Springfield XD-E was at the C2 Tactical Indoor Range. I remember thinking right away that this pistol deserved more attention than it gets. I have shot a lot of compact handguns over the years, especially in the context of everyday carry, and it is rare that one immediately feels both familiar and refreshing at the same time. The XD-E managed to do exactly that.

This particular model was the 3.3-inch barrel, single-stack version, chambered in 9mm. From the moment I picked it up, the balance felt right. It has enough weight to soak up recoil without feeling heavy or cumbersome. As someone who values shootability just as much as concealability, I care a lot about that balance.

[Don’t miss Richard Johnson’s review of the XD-E.]

A DA/SA Compact That Stands Out

What really separates the Springfield XD-E from many other modern compact pistols is its double-action single-action trigger system. In a market dominated by striker-fired handguns, having a traditional DA/SA option feels almost nostalgic, but in the best way possible. There is something very confidence-inspiring about a longer, deliberate double-action first pull followed by crisp single-action shots.

I decided to start my shooting session in single-action mode to get a feel for the trigger and overall recoil impulse. The trigger break in single action was clean and predictable, which made it easy to stay on target. Even with the shorter barrel, accuracy was not an issue at all. The pistol felt very controllable, and follow-up shots were quick and smooth.

One of the first things that stood out visually was the sight setup. The fiber optic front sight paired with a white dot rear sight with serrations is an excellent combination, especially for a defensive pistol. The front sight pops immediately, even under indoor lighting, and the rear serrations help reduce glare and keep your focus where it should be.

For me, a good sight picture can make or break a shooting experience, particularly on a compact handgun. The XD-E made it easy to acquire sights quickly and consistently. That translated directly into confidence on the firing line, which is exactly what you want from a carry-oriented pistol.

Shooting in Double Action

After getting comfortable in single action, I moved on to shooting with the double-action trigger. This is where the XD-E truly shines as a training tool. The double-action pull is smooth and manageable, not overly heavy or gritty, which is something I always pay attention to.

For shooters who want to improve their fundamentals, especially with double-action triggers, this feature alone makes the XD-E worth serious consideration.

For this range session, I was shooting Federal Syntec 9mm 124-grain ammunition. Even with a compact frame and shorter barrel, felt recoil was very manageable. The XD-E does a great job of soaking up recoil, and the grip texture provides enough traction without being abrasive.

I was honestly impressed with how comfortable it was to shoot for extended strings. Compact pistols can sometimes feel snappy or fatiguing after a while, but that was not the case here. I found myself loading up more magazines simply because it was fun to shoot.

Carry Comfort and Practical Use

From an everyday carry perspective, the Springfield XD-E checks a lot of boxes. Its slim, single-stack profile makes it easy to conceal, whether you prefer strong side carry or appendix carry. The size is just right: it does not print excessively but still provides enough grip to control the gun effectively.

I also want to touch on holster compatibility, as it is often overlooked. With a good inside-the-waistband Kydex holster that positively locks onto the pistol, carrying the XD-E is comfortable and secure. It sits close to the body and doesn’t feel like it is constantly fighting for space, which I appreciate on long days.

Safety Features That Add Confidence

Another area where the XD-E stands out is its thoughtful safety features. In addition to the decocker, it also includes a manual thumb safety for shooters who prefer that extra layer of control. This makes it appealing to a wider range of users, especially those transitioning from other DA/SA platforms or who simply feel more comfortable with a thumb safety.

The loaded chamber indicator on top of the slide is another excellent feature. When a round is chambered, the indicator pops up, allowing you to both see and feel that the pistol is loaded. In low light or nighttime situations, being able to confirm the status of your firearm by touch alone is a big deal. It reduces the need for unnecessary press checks and adds an extra level of situational awareness.

One of the biggest takeaways for me after spending time with the Springfield XD-E is how well it bridges the gap between range training and real-world defensive use. The ability to practice double-action first shots repeatedly, combined with manageable recoil and excellent sights, makes it a very practical pistol to train with regularly.

This is not a gun that feels like it is only meant to be carried and rarely shot. On the contrary, it invites practice. The more I shot it, the more I wanted to keep going, refining my trigger control and sight alignment with each magazine.

Final Thoughts on the Springfield XD-E

After spending quality time behind the trigger, I can confidently say that I really like the Springfield XD-E. It is a well-thought-out compact pistol that offers something different in a sea of striker-fired options. The DA/SA trigger system, combined with solid ergonomics and useful safety features, makes it a compelling choice for concealed carry and range use alike.

If you are someone who values deliberate first shot control, appreciates traditional trigger systems, or simply wants a compact pistol that is enjoyable to shoot, the XD-E deserves a serious look. It has earned a spot on my list of pistols I genuinely enjoy shooting, and I look forward to spending even more time with it in future range sessions.

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XD-E™ 3.3" Single Stack