Ok I'm going to buy my first handgun this week (my local gun shop is having an awesome sell) and I just wanted to get a bit more help, so I for sure can make the correct decision. The two guns I'm looking at are the Glock 19/23 and the Springfield XD. After holding and firing both guns I really like both of them. Both weapons have pros and a few cons in my opinion, and the main differences I felt were that the glock is bit more concealable and that the Springfield is a tiny bit more accurate (very small difference). So I think I'd be happy with either gun.

Ok and now to my questions. How do these guns hold up over time? I've heard no problems with the Glock, but I've heard that the Bruniral finish on the XD isn't quite as durable, that is wears down though normal use. Is it really that big of a problem? What about the actual mechanics of the guns, do they both hold up well after many rounds have been fired though them? I do like the fact that Springfield gun have a lifetime warranty, while the Glocks have only the one year warranty.

Also since this will be my first firearm, easy of use will be a big deciding factor. I assume both guns are easy to break down and clean, but which one is better suited for a begineer?

And lastly should I get a 9mm or .40 cal. I'll be using this gun for self defense and weekend shooting. The 9mm is cheaper to shoot, while the .40 cal has more stopping power. I'm not sure which to get.

Oh and price is not an issue, for these two guns. The gun shop is offering a great zero down and zero percent finacing sale so I'll be paying monthly over 12 months. The XD is for $350 ( $29.17 per month) while the Glock is $425 ( $35.42 per month).

Thanks for you help!

Ok I'm going to buy my first handgun this week (my local gun shop is having an awesome sell) and I just wanted to get a bit more help, so I for sure can make the correct decision. The two guns I'm looking at are the Glock 19/23 and the Springfield XD. After holding and firing both guns I really like both of them. Both weapons have pros and a few cons in my opinion, and the main differences I felt were that the glock is bit more concealable and that the Springfield is a tiny bit more accurate (very small difference). So I think I'd be happy with either gun.

Ok and now to my questions. How do these guns hold up over time? I've heard no problems with the Glock, but I've heard that the Bruniral finish on the XD isn't quite as durable, that is wears down though normal use. Is it really that big of a problem? What about the actual mechanics of the guns, do they both hold up well after many rounds have been fired though them? I do like the fact that Springfield gun have a lifetime warranty, while the Glocks have only the one year warranty.

Also since this will be my first firearm, easy of use will be a big deciding factor. I assume both guns are easy to break down and clean, but which one is better suited for a begineer?

And lastly should I get a 9mm or .40 cal. I'll be using this gun for self defense and weekend shooting. The 9mm is cheaper to shoot, while the .40 cal has more stopping power. I'm not sure which to get.

Oh and price is not an issue, for these two guns. The gun shop is offering a great zero down and zero percent finacing sale so I'll be paying monthly over 12 months. The XD is for $350 ( $29.17 per month) while the Glock is $425 ( $35.42 per month).

Thanks for you help!


I've got an XD-9 and It's a great gun so far. Nice accuracy from a 4" and it will feed any ammo I can find to put in it. The slide finish is parkerized but I don't know how that compares to a Glock. From what I've read the XD is a better pistol, if it shows reliability even a little like the Glocks are noted for. I've never had it jam or misfeed or misfire after about 700+ rounds of varous JHP and FMJ ammo. I like the grip angle better than the Glock myself. It will take 17 round Beretta 92 magazines too. I have no complaints.

XD.....better grip angle and trigger

Another point to ponder. If you think you might like to get into reloading in the future then get the XD. The Glock has polygonal rifling in the barrel and does not like lead bullets, just jacketed types. For real inexpensive shooting (regardless of caliber) you may want to think about getting into reloading. I have an XD-9, great gun. And it's getting cheaper to feed all the time now that I have a set of 9mm dies. Cheap ammo means lots of practice. Lots of practice means familiarity with your weapon which builds confidence and accuracy. Accuracy can be more meaningful than more power.

I own a Glock 23 & XD-40. Choose what feels the best and you are the most comfortable with. I bought my Glock first just because XD-40 weren't even thought of at the time.
If I had to do it all over again, ... Glocks reputation or save a few bucks with the XD?

GET BOTH!

Sanjuro1,
I'm also considering the XD in .40 and was just wondering if you can tell me which gunstore you said was having a sale. I think $350 for an XD is really a great deal. I'm here in Houston, TX. Appreciate your help.

I've owned an XD9 and there are a couple other things you should consider. Being a first time gun buyer, there are a few other safety options the XD offers that may be of some vaule. There is a chamber loaded indicator, and hammer cocked indicator, and a grip safety. The Glock doesn't have any of these features.

I've not had a Glock, but from what I've seen/read breaking them down are about equal. There is no substantial difference between the two.

Glock has a proven track record. The XD being a "newer" gun doesn't have the same record. Actually as the HS2000 it got poor reviews...

I agree with InfernoDan98, get the guns that feels better to you.

I keep hearing this lead bullet thing with the Glocks. I have owned several Glocks and lead bullets were no problem. I know there was a 40 that blew up several years ago, but that seemed like a cleaning problem.

For self defense I would shoot the biggest caliber you are comfortable shooting. Personally, I like 45s but of the two you are looking at the XD 40 in my oppinion, is just as good as the Glock and if it costs less that would be my choice.

The reloading concern with the glock is due to its unsupported chamber. Pull the slide off a glock, flip it over and look at that hole where the chamber meets the breech face. When firing reloads with potentially weakened brass, that hole, or unsupported area of the chamber can result in a case failure. Also the poly rifleing is not friendly with lead bullets at low velosities. I recommend Raineers which are copper plated and cheeper then jacketed. Good luck/Shoot straight!

I guess a thing you should concern about, apart from Glock reliability, is the availability of accessories.
I admit I dunno anything about accessories for XDs ( I own a G19), but I can say that you can find everything to make your Glock more suitable to you and your shooting style.
Just try to visit Glockmeister and you will understand what I am saying!