Springfield Armory introduced a new version of the popular XD 45 Service Pistol. This .45 ACP model adds an ambidextrous thumb safety on the frame that closely mirrors the function of thumb safeties on the 1911 handguns. The thumb safety was placed far back on the frame to make it relatively easy to manipulate.
The Springfield XD pistols have been described by some as a modern-day 1911, and in fact the Springfield XD does draw much of its inspiration from the 1911.
I have talked with numerous 1911 shooters who were never impressed by the Glock pistols, but who are enamored with the XD line. Many 1911 shooters appreciate the grip safety that is standard on XD pistols. 1911 handguns also use a grip safety.
The Springfield XD has not had a thumb safety until this model. For devotees of John Moses Browning, the addition of the thumb safety makes this a much closer pistol to the modernized 1911 concept.
So, if you like the XD pistols, and have been waiting for a thumb safety, your wait is over. Springfield is delivering these pistols now, any you should find them on your dealer’s shelf.
Springfield XD45 with Thumb Safety Specs
- caliber: .45 ACP
- barrel length: 4.04″
- overall length: 7.3″
- slide: steel
- finish: black Melonite
- frame: polymer
- trigger pull: 5.5 to 7.7 pounds
- weight with an empty mag: 30 ounces
Update: Feb 2011 – This specific model of XD is still available for purchase, but the thumb safety does not appear to have caught on across the line.
It is the only XD service model with the option.
Other handguns in the line do not have the manual safety available, leaving one to conclude that most shooters aren’t looking for a handgun with this feature.
While the external manual safety might have made sense for poorly trained military conscripts of more than 100 years ago, today’s gun owner is typically better trained, and not needing some device to keep them from pressing the trigger without cause. Of course, it can be noted that nearly the entire Smith & Wesson M&P line has a thumb safety available as an option. So, go figure.
Last update: May 30, 2021
37 replies on “Springfield XD with Thumb Safety”
With any luck they will produce the compact model with this option soon. Another solid delivery from Springfield. According to other blogs, the new Springfield will be in the stores by June.
I agree it’s not needed but still a nice addition. I can’t wait to get one. I already own an XD 40 and the XD 9mm. This will be a welcome addition. I don’t think I will ever buy another type of handgun ever again. Although the 1911 is always a favorite.
I ‘ve been looking at the XD as my first hand gun. I was originally looking at the Rueger P345. After being directed by a dealer , to these, I have been decided on them. I was looking for the side safty and he didn’t have any info. on them. When are they available and not that it matters, what is the cost. Because I’ve decided on the XD as what I am going to buy.
Please give me all tha info. you can on the options. I don’t want to buy one and say ” should of, could of would of ”
Thanks,
Pepe Garcia
The XD with the tumb safety is shipping now. More information is here.
Thusfar, Springfield has said that the thumb safety will only be available with the .45 ACP. Consumer demand, I’m sure, could sway them.
Richard