Of all the new firearms that hit the market today, very few could ever garner the reputation that the Springfield Armory XD Tactical Model .45 ACP pistol enjoys. This review explores this venerated weapon, still in service with law enforcement agencies, military forces, and civilian shooters since its near-two-decade introduction to the firearms community.
Historically, US law enforcement preferred 5″ and 6″ barrels for handguns. Later, it became standard to have a 4″; though the classic 1911 is fitted with a 5″ barrel. Thus, the Springfield XD Tactical .45, with its 5″ barrel, is more along the lines of those older designs that brought forth such benefits as lessened muzzle rise, heightened velocity of the bullet, and improved accuracy from the longer sight radius.
The XD Tactical .45 is the most classic Springfield XD model, built to be reliable and serviceable. Featuring a longer barrel, this model has retained the ergonomic fit of its companions with 4″ barrels. But on the list of common characteristics that are simply inherent in the XD series are a polymer frame, striker-firing system, and smooth trigger. Contributing to the list of features are the grip safety and ambidextrous magazine release with steel three-dot sights and an accessory rail.
The barrel is hammer-forged steel, 5″ long with a Melonite finish for added durability and resistance to corrosion. Amazingly, the XD Tactical .45 has the same width as their 9mm and .40 caliber brothers, making it not too awe-insfully large to carry, despite it being chambered for .45 ACP.
Any serious firearm is truly measured by performance under many conditions. At this point, the XD Tactical .45 shines. Testing revealed an error-free performance with an array of ammunition, from ultra-standard FMJ rounds to powerful high-pressure loads for personal protection. Recoil and muzzle rise were very mild for the power +P loads.
The Hornady Custom 230-grain XTP hollow point, for example, broke the 900 fps barrier with virtually nonexistent muzzle flash, while the Liberty Ammunition Civil Defense 78-grain hollow point topped out just shy of 2,000 fps, further driving home the point that the gun digested both ends of the ammo spectrum without a hitch.
Accuracy is another strong suit of the XD Tactical .45. It turned in tight groupings at 7 yards in testing with a variety of defensive loads producing good performances. Its balance and ergonomics make it shootable, hence reliable for self-defense and recreational shooters alike.
The XD series, including the Tactical .45, is quite literally considered a favorite among civilians and professionals alike. It is listed on the California Roster of Certified Handguns and therefore remains legally available to those in the Golden State, which has some of the most restrictive handgun laws in the country. Capacity is 10 rounds per magazine to comply with California law, but 13-round magazines are available for individuals in other states with less burdensome restrictions on their rights.
The Springfield Armory XD Tactical Model .45 ACP is a durable, reliable, and accurate weapon that has withstood the test of time. The combination of classic elements and modern features presents this firearm as versatile for such a great number of users: be it for home defense, duty, or recreational purposes, the XD Tactical .45 provides a record of proof along with exceptional performance.