Several years go there was a considerable surge in demand for concealable semi-automatic firearms. And while there were plenty of options available chambered in .380 ACP, many who were seeking a personal-defense handgun would have preferred a more powerful chambering or additional rounds. For that reason, many firearm manufacturers reprised their earlier success with small, single-stacks chambered in 9 mm Luger. 
But in 2012, Springfield Armory introduced the XD-S, a subcompact, polymer-frame single-stack that measures 1"x4.4"x6.3" and weighs 21.5 ozs. Those numbers alone would not be particularly impressive were it not for the fact that the XD-S is chambered in one of America’s most respected defensive handgun cartridges: the .45 ACP. That places the newest XD nearly in a class by itself, and was American Rifleman's 2013 Golden Bullseye winner for Handgun of the Year. Watch more in this American Rifleman TV segment on the Springfield XD-S.
Video: Springfield's XD-S in .45 ACP
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
The "Privy" Musket: Uncovering The Story Behind A Forgotten Model 1816 Flintlock
On the grounds of the present-day Alexandria, Va., courthouse, an interesting Model 1816 contract musket produced by Marine Wickham was found, muzzle-down, in an abandoned privy during archaeological studies prior to the city's expansion and renovations during the mid- to late-20th century.
Silencer Central Applauds Suppressor Endorsement From Medical Professionals
Silencer Central, the nation’s leader in suppressor promotion and sales, applauds the recently announced official position on suppressors from the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS/F).
I Have This Old Gun: French Resistance No. 4 Lee-Enfields
Among all of the No. 4 rifles made throughout World War II, this relatively small batch of guns has a unique history that bears witness to some of the bravest fighters of the war: the French resistance.
New For 2025: Taurus 650
For 2025, Taurus re-introduced its "hammerless" revolver design with the 650, which provides double-action-only operation and a shrouded hammer for a seamless, snag-free profile.
I Have This Old Gun: Norinco Model 320
The Uzi submachine gun is one of the most iconic and recognizable firearms of the 20th century. As a highly successful design with more than 10 million produced to date, it has spawned numerous copies, licensed and otherwise, and has been manufactured everywhere from Belgium to southeast Asia.
Henry Repeating Arms Donates To First Responders Children’s Foundation
Henry Repeating Arms recently donated another $25,000 to the First Responders Children’s Foundation at a celebratory National First Responders Day event in New York City’s Times Square.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
