I've got an XD9 and an XD45; both are tactical (5") models. I'm very satisfied with them - to the point that I may look at getting a .40 S&W version. I'm finding that I shoot them more than any of my other pistols. Personally I feel that the XD9 is an excellent "instructor" pistol - easy to shoot well, very accurate, cheap ammo, minimal fatigue factor, and duplicates the XD45 closely enough for training purposes. I could sing similar praises about the XD45 excepting only the cost of ammo and the fatigue factor of shooting .45 all day - especially for multi-day training. The XD45 makes an excellent field gun (something about the confidence a .45 inspires
). I'm already planning to send both of them back to Springfield for night sights and trigger work. Not that there's anything wrong; I personally think the pistols are worth the additional investment to maximize their potential. I'm not impressed with the XD Gear holster or mag pouch that came with the .45 (partly because I'm left handed
). I'm using Bladetech gear and like it a lot - for range and field use. The stuff I have is not concealment quality, nor am I sure I would want kydex for concealment. Personal opinion: if you want "tactical tupperware" - go XD, you won't regret it. I don't care what anybody says, they beat hell out of Glocks. (I've described them as "Gen III" Glocks - a marked improvement on the original.) My .02, FWIW. Peregrino
PS - Get original magazines. Springfield has an XD Accessory Kit with 3 mags, a double mag pouch, and a plastic box to hold everything. I got mine from Jim's Pawn (hang my head in shame) for 39.99. I couldn't afford not to at that price. Last I checked he still had a table full of the 45 kits.