Rob Pincus is often asked what the difference is between two Springfield Armory pistols: the standard model, the Springfield XD Mod.2, and the Springfield XD(M), and which is the best choice for personal defense.

This video features close-up camera work that lets you examine the physical features of these two pistols to help decide which is best for personal defense, as well as firearms training.

Grips

Rob has two Springfield XD series pistols that have very similar features and sizes: the Springfield XD(M) 3.8-inch model and Springfield XD Mod.2 4-inch model. The main difference most people find when they pick them up is the way the grip feels. The XD(M) models are wider and fill the hand more. If you have small hands, you may not like the feel of the XD(M) as much.

The contours of the XD Mod.2 are more aggressive and appealing to a smaller hand, though a large hand fits the Mod.2 very well also.

Concealability

Another significant difference is the Springfield XD(M) 3.8-inch model has a shorter grip than the Springfield XD Mod.2 4-inch model. This makes it easier to conceal when wearing inside the waistband. It prints less than the XD Mod.2, because the length of grip is one of the hardest parts of a handgun to conceal.

Magazines

Another advantage of the Springfield XD(M) is that it takes not only a compact magazine but also a full-size, which offers a big increase in rounds on board: 20 rounds total. The Springfield XD Mod.2 with its full-size magazine has 17 rounds total.

Shooting

No surprise, they both shoot great. For handgun training, Rob prefers the feel of the XD Mod.2.

Magazine capacity and grip: These are the choices to make when looking at these two Springfield carry guns.