Springfield Trots Out New XD-S Mod.2, 1911s, and M1A in 6.5 Creed

By Jacki Billings

After weeks of spamming social media with new gun after new gun, Springfield Armory finally had a chance to flaunt its new guns at Industry Day at the Range.

While the pride and joy — the XD-S Mod.2 — took center stage, Springfield didn’t forget to pack in some 1911s for good measure.

The XD-S Mod.2 is built on the XD-S platform but features a few tweaks customary to the gun maker’s Mod.2 series. The Mod.2 was originally introduced as a double stack design, but apparently, Springfield felt that the XD-S could benefit from a little redesign using the Mod.2 model.

Chambered in .45 ACP, the XD-S equips itself with a 3.3-inch barrel with dual springs and a full-length guide rod. Springfield offers the XD-S Mod.2 in three configurations — a night sight, tritium, and Viridian laser package.

It should come as no surprise that the XD-S Mod.2 feels like, well, the original Mod.2 just in a smaller package. The single stack grip fits well enough in the hand, especially if you’re sporting petite sized digits. Hoping to see a clean, logo-free grip area? Well, you’re out of luck. In true Springfield fashion, it outfits the grip area with Mod.2 stippling and XD-S logo.

Popping 9mm rounds down range, the XD-S still shoots like an XD-S. Industry folks lined up in flocks to try out the bite-sized pistol and most walked away seemingly pleased with the overhaul.

Alongside the XD-S Mod.2, Springfield lined its tables with the new RO Elite series. The 1911s, announced in the summer, come in either 9mm or .45 ACP. With stainless steel barrels and Picatinny rails for lasers/lights they are pretty standard Springfield 1911 fare.

Though Springfield’s pistol bay was teeming with attendees, its rifle side was a little bare. Now, this could be mere coincidence or the reiterations of SAINTs aren't quite as exciting as they once were. The most recent, the SAINT Edge, was on full display alongside the newly released M1A in 6.5 Creedmoor.

We’d hazard to guess the 6.5 Creed version for the M1A is the most welcomed addition to the Springfield lineup. With a match grade, 22-inch stainless steel barrel fitted with muzzle brake, the M1A provides a 2-stage trigger and pull weigh in the 4.5 to 5-pound range. Springfield pulled out the FDE variety for range day, which stood out amongst the black SAINT rifles lining the tables.  The M1A Creed with precision adjustable stock, as showcased on the range, is priced at $2,045.

Looking for the best scope for m14 sniper rifles? Need an automatic ranging scope for your M1A? Check out this sniper scope review of the Leatherwood ART scope (Automatic Ranging and Trajectory) at our sister publication, Gun Digest.

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