I'm new to guns, but I know I want an XD...which model should I buy?

Question

Hello everyone-

As I said, I am brand new to guns. I'm 21 and I grew up in a family where no one owned or shot. I've shot a Glock 9mm a few times with a buddy of mine, but that's it for my handgun experience.

I've decided that I definitely want a Springfield XD, preferrably Bi-tone. The Bi-tones just look too dang sweet to pass up, I think. I know this is kind of a stupid question to ask, since everyone has their own preferences. Plus I know some people will tell me to try them out for myself (which I will).

With all that said, what model do you all recommend for a beginner like me, and should I go for a ported?

Thanks

to answer tack's question, I will be using the gun for target shooting, but I also want it for home defense...no I will not be carrying it

Answer 1

I am assuming this is not for defensive purposes. Get a 9 millimeter tactical and get porting. Why the 9? Cheaper ammo and teaches you recoil control in a friendly way. Why the tactical? longer sight radius easier to shoot accurately and quickly. Why porting? less recoil (but still some) and quicker follow up shots.

If this is for home defense get the tactical without porting. Porting will ruin your night vision and if you have to shoot from the hip (which you might if your target is close, read about weapon retention) you will get gas shot in your face which can be painful.

If this is for carry get a baby or regular size.

Newbies for some reason never think they need training. You do. It is the more experienced who seek out training.

People in your shoes almost never consider a .22. I am not going to rehash the arguments (other people will and you can do a search on this site). I will just say get a .22. All of us who grew up around guns did.

Answer 2

I suggest you wait a while before you get a walnut stock and put a lot of money into it. Make sure you like the rifle first. After a few months you may decide you want something with a little more meat on its bones and be kicking yourself for putting so much money into it. The Ruger 10/22 is not something you upgrade as you go along if you ask me. It is a nice first rifle with cheap ammo. You may eventually get a folder stock or something but I would recommend you don't get a scope. It doesn't have the range to need one. The best life for a 10/22 is spending it's days blowing holes in water bottles and coke cans. It is not a sniper rifle despite what some people like to make it look like. If you end up liking it, get the nice stock. Use the synthetic one for actual use since it is durable and if it is a special occasion dress it up in a walnut stock. I actually have two 10/22's. I have fun with the synthetic stock one and keep the nice wood stocked rifle locked up for special events. Don't think to hard or spend too much on a 10/22. They are plinkers, that is what they are good for. If you want to spend some money, buy several thousand rounds of ammo and blast away. Hollow point jams in 10/22's, get full metal jacket.

Answer 3

well since you want it for just target and home defence get a 9mm or 40 s&w, you wouldn't need the ported model but it wouldn't hurt anything if you got it. I shot a 40 S&W XD and almost went out and bought one after that but never got around to it I spend money on a rifle instead. But I know I will be getting one someday being I already own a 40 for conseal so it'll most likely be a 9mm or 45 just for target. also getting one in 9 or 40 the ammo won't be so pricey like a 45 would be, and get a good quality home deffence ammo they are pricy but you just practice with the cheeper stuff and keep a few mags loaded with the deffence stuff for when not target practising.

Answer 4

Even though some guns look alot nicer than others, you really should understand what you want your gun for (target, home defense, etc.) and then research the guns available that fit that need. Figure out which caliber would be best for you. Look at guns that are known for reliability, accuracy, ease of breakdown and so forth. Understand the features and mechanics of the different models. Then visit several gun stores and see which guns are most comfortable and fit your hand the best. Try going to a range that lets you rent guns so you can actually try them out. Don't rush into buying one before you are sure it's what you want and never let a gun store salesman persuade you to buy anything if you're unsure about the gun.

It's recommended that beginners get revolvers as their first handgun because of their simplicity. They will be easier to use, clean, and will be safer in the hands of a first timer.

Answer 5

It depends on what your using it for. Conceal carry? On the job or home defense? I have a XD 9mm five inch and I use it for all. You can't go wrong with the four inch model with a 40caliber. The XD is a great but too.

Answer 6

If your getting your concealed permit you don't want a ported pistol because of the muzzle flash at night will blind you.

If the XD .45 ACP was out when I bought my XD9 I would have gone that route, but the XD9 is a good pistol.

You could just go ahead and get your 1911 now, because you will eventually anyway.

Answer 7

get a 4' or 5' 9mm version. reason being ...you can practice more (cheaper ammo) and then load up some ranger sxt(a.k.a black talons) to rip big nasty .65inch holes in the bad guys if need be.

Answer 8

Which ever model feels best in your hand while shooting is the one to buy

Answer 9

If i was u i would get a Remington 7mm.08 rifle their awesome