By: Greg Chabot

Photos by Sasha Steadman

High-capacity .45 caliber polymer handguns are a popular choice in the US market. Two of the better-selling models are the Glock 21 and the Springfield Armory XD(M). The original Glock 21 was a big handgun and many shooters had difficulty in mastering it. In 2007 during a competition for the DoD, Glock introduced the SF model that stands for Short Frame. The SF model has a reduced grip circumference compared to the standard G21. Though Glock did not get the contract the SF model surpassed the standard Glock 21 in sales. When the Gen 4 debuted, the SF became the standard size for big-bore offerings, with the previous Gen 3 models being discontinued.

The XD(M) was introduced in 2008 as an improvement to the imported XD series. A changeable backstrap comes standard as does a match-grade barrel with an improved trigger and grip texture. Both platforms are popular with shooters and though both test weapons are discontinued they are available on the secondary market for decent prices. I have considerable trigger time with both weapons and decided to compare both to help readers make an informed purchase.

Test Weapons:

1) Glock 21 SF Gen 3

2) Springfield Armory XD(M) 4.5 with factory threaded barrel

Testing Conditions:

Both weapons were tested over a five-year period in various weather conditions using mixed ammo. Both weapons were tested as is out of the box with no modifications. Lube used was gun butter, weapons were cleaned after every 500 rounds fired. Holsters were bought from 2Aholster.com

Initial Impressions:

Both weapons came in plastic cases with three thirteen-round magazines. The XD(M) mags are metal and well-built and drop-free every time. The XD(M) mag release is ambidextrous which is a plus for southpaws. The XD(M) comes with a loaded chamber indicator on top of the slide. Other safety features include trigger safety like the Glock and grip safety. A lot of folks bash the grip safety in the XD series as it must be depressed to work the slide. I have had zero issues with it and being a 1911 guy, it was an easy transition. It also provides extra peace of mind if one chooses to carry it concealed. Sights are metal suppressor height with a white dot on the front blacked-out rear.

The Glock 21 SF uses their tried-and-true design. The magazines are polymer and drop-free and fed all ammo types. The Glock 21 SF uses a trigger safety and the extractor doubles as a loaded chamber indicator. The sights are standard polymer one found on all Glocks. Both come with rails for lights or lasers. Glock is their proprietary, the XD(M) uses a 1913 style. Both owners’ manuals were well-written and easy to understand.

Both are easy to disassemble — unlike the Glock, the XD(M) doesn’t need the trigger to be pulled to field strip it. I’d like to address the whole “pull the trigger to field strip” many in the community seem to have issues with. If you don’t have enough sense to triple check that the weapon is clear and safe before field stripping it, maybe you shouldn’t own a gun. It’s not hard to do the above. I challenge someone to prove me wrong.

Ergonomics: XD(M)

The ergonomics and grip angle of the XD(M) surpass the Glock. It is very 1911-like, though thicker. The grip angle allowed me to get a high grip and keep the grip safety engaged while shooting. The Glock ergonomics are not much to talk about. The grip angle has much to be desired and many shooters will have grip reductions and stippling done to suit their needs. Compared to a regular Glock 21 the SF was an improvement and allowed me to get a decent grip. Out of the box the XD(M) wins hands down in ergonomics.

Grip Texture: XD(M)

I personally prefer an aggressive grip texture as it helps to mitigate recoil. It also allows for better control with a one- or two-handed grip. Many in the shooting community will use grip tape or get their weapon stippled for a better control. Both weapons were tested as-is from the factory with no grip tape or aftermarket stippling.

To test grip texture, I coat my hands in mineral oil to simulate blood. The Glock 21 was slick in my hands, in a one- and two-handed grip. I was still able to control it and hit my target. I had to adjust my grip multiple times during rapid fire which was detrimental to accuracy.

The XD(M) with its more aggressive texture was easier to control during rapid fire. It moved but I had an easier time with follow-up shots during rapid fire.

Trigger: XD(M)

I have a respectable round count through both. I am a believer in the case of ammo trigger job. With use, triggers get smoother. I always advise to shoot a gun for a while before swapping out the trigger.

The trigger on the XD(M) broke at a clean 5 lbs. Being striker-fired it did have some take-up with a crisp, clean break and a short reset. The Glock trigger broke at 5.5 lbs., and take-up was spongy with a clean break and short reset. I shot better with the XD(M) in slow and rapid fire. In a dangerous situation you will not notice the difference in either trigger. For range use, the XD(M) wins.

Reliability: Draw

Both have been 100% reliable for me in all conditions with little maintenance and no parts breakage. I would trust my life to either one in a dangerous situation. My previous statement I don’t make lightly, it is my highest praise for a product.

Accuracy: Draw

Both weapons are equally accurate in my opinion. I shot slightly better with the XD(M), most modern weapons are mechanically more accurate than the shooter. Only a Ransom rest could narrow down the more accurate of the two in my opinion. Practice the fundamentals and you’ll hit what you are shooting at with either one.

Customization: Glock 21 SF

I personally do not consider this a factor when I am contemplating a purchase. Many in the shooting community do. Glock embraced the aftermarket, and a quick search will bring up many options to customize. The XD(M) has some options for slide milling, triggers, etc. If you like to modify your weapons, Glock is the better choice. Later editions now come from the factory milled for optics for shooters who prefer optics.

Overall Winner: XD(M)

Closing Thoughts:

The XD(M) in my opinion has better ergonomics, trigger and grip texture compared to the Gen 3 Glock 21 SF. Even in its slimmed-down version the Glock 21 can be a handful for shooters with small hands. Out of the box the XD(M) is the more user-friendly of the two. The Glock has the advantage of brand recognition and aftermarket support.

Both weapons are ruggedly built for hard use. They performed flawlessly with all ammo in all weather conditions. As stated earlier, I would completely trust my life to either one in a dangerous situation. I advise, if possible, renting both and trying them to help you make a purchase that works for you. Both weapons can be found on the secondary market for short money. The savings can then be used for training. Both are still supported by their factories for any problems. Holsters, mag holders and magazines are readily available for purchase on the market.