The video introduces the Springfield XD(M) Elite series as a new 2020 pistol lineup. The featured handgun is an XD(M) Elite with a roughly 4.25-inch barrel in 9mm. The host notes the absence of the older “Grip Zone” branding on the frame and focuses instead on the updated features that define the Elite line. The pistol is presented as a recent release from late summer 2020, and the discussion sets up a closer look at what differentiates the XD(M) Elite models from earlier Springfield XD variants, including barrel, controls, and ergonomics.
The XD(M) Elite is shown with a match-grade barrel and fully ambidextrous controls, including an ambidextrous slide release and ambidextrous magazine release. The host comments on needing to keep the strong-hand thumb off the slide release to ensure reliable slide lock on an empty magazine. The pistol includes a Picatinny rail on the dust cover for accessories. Sighting equipment consists of a fiber optic front sight paired with a U-shaped rear sight. The grip has aggressive, angled texturing that provides a secure hold, even when hands are sweaty. A visible striker indicator at the rear shows when the striker is in the ready position and retracts when the pistol is dry-fired or runs empty. The grip safety remains part of the design.
The XD(M) Elite ships with two 20-round metal magazines, which is highlighted as a practical advantage for range use. The pistol features an extended, removable, and beveled magwell that is noticeably flared to guide magazines during reloads. This design, combined with the smooth metal magazines and well-finished magwell, allows magazines to insert easily and drop free reliably, even when empty. If a magazine does not fall free, the baseplate provides enough surface to grasp and strip it out manually. The overall impression is that Springfield has refined the magazine and magwell interface to support fast, consistent reloads without snagging.
On the range, the fiber optic front sight is described as highly visible, working well with the U-shaped rear sight. The sight picture is likened to the front fiber optic settling into a cup formed by the rear notch, helping the front sight return quickly under recoil. At approximately 15 yards, hits are consistent once the shooter adjusts to the sight system. The XD(M) Elite uses Springfield’s META (Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly) trigger, which has a flat-faced shoe and an integral blade safety. The trigger exhibits a short take-up to a defined wall, a clean break, and a reset that is audible and tactile, with only modest forward travel. The trigger characteristics contribute to controllable, repeatable shots during both slow fire and faster strings.
A second XD(M) Elite model with a 3.8-inch barrel is introduced. It retains the same full-size grip and frame as the longer-barreled pistol but offers a shorter slide and barrel for a more compact overall length. The compact version is distinguished from the XD(M) Elite compact variant, which would have a shorter grip; this 3.8-inch model keeps the full-size grip. Controls remain the same: ambidextrous slide release, ambidextrous magazine release, grip safety, and striker indicator. The extended, flared magwell is also present and removable for those who want to reduce printing during concealed carry. On the range, recoil from the 3.8-inch barrel model feels very similar to the 4.25-inch version, even during rapid fire, and the META trigger’s reset and break feel consistent between both pistols.
The XD(M) Elite pistols feature enhanced forward and rear slide serrations that are wider and more pronounced than earlier designs. These serrations provide a solid gripping surface for press checks and slide manipulation without feeling overly sharp or prone to snagging on clothing or skin. The host notes that the slide is easy to grasp from both the front and rear, which aids in administrative handling and defensive use. Magazine insertion and ejection remain notably smooth, with empty magazines dropping free cleanly. Overall impressions are positive, with emphasis on the combination of capacity, ergonomics, trigger quality, and slide manipulation features. The XD platform is mentioned as a previous personal first pistol, and the XD(M) Elite line is viewed as a desirable update that would be a welcome addition to a collection.
The video closes by shifting briefly to a current giveaway featuring an FN SCAR rifle in a flat dark earth configuration, informally referred to as the “tactical UGG boot.” The rifle is equipped with a Vortex UH-1 holographic sight, which has previously undergone a torture test and continued functioning until it was ultimately damaged during testing. A vertical grip is installed on the SCAR to support a comfortable forward hand position while keeping the support hand away from the gas block, using the sling mounting point as a reference. Viewers are directed to ClassicFirearms.com to enter the giveaway, use the code word “boot” for bonus entries, and share referral links with friends. The video ends with a brief sign-off and an invitation to visit the website for more details.
Loading...