The XD-M Elite packs 20+1 rounds into a polymer-framed package at the same capacity as the Springfield Echelon and Prodigy. Made by HS Produkt in Croatia, the XD-M lineage stretches back nearly two decades, giving it more field time than Springfield's newer designs. The META trigger breaks at 5.0 lbs with a clean wall, sitting between the heavier S&W M&P M2.0 at 6.5 lbs and the lighter Canik METE SFT at 3.8 lbs. Two 20-round magazines and a removable extended magwell ship in the box.

The grip safety is the polarizing feature. A hinged panel on the backstrap must be fully depressed before the trigger functions. Most shooters engage it automatically with a proper firing grip. Shooters with smaller hands or unconventional holds report intermittent engagement issues during rapid fire. The safety cannot be removed without modification, so test it thoroughly before committing. At 29 oz and 7.6 inches overall, the XD-M Elite runs heavier than the Walther PDP Full Size (22.3 oz) and the Echelon (24.3 oz) for identical capacity.

The surprising strength of the XD-M Elite is the total package in the box. Two 20-round magazines, a removable magwell, fiber optic front sight, optic-ready slide, and Melonite finish all ship standard. Most competitors charge extra for the magwell alone. If the grip safety works for your hand size, this is a lot of hardware for the money.