As a professional shooter passionate about testing and comparing firearms, I’ve recently evaluated two popular guns in the 10mm category: the Springfield XDM Elite Compact Vs Glock 29.
In this article, I aim to share my firsthand experience with both models, detailing their specifications, performance, and handling.
Remember, while I’ll share my personal preferences, the final choice always depends on individual needs.
| Feature | Springfield XDM Elite Compact | Glock 29 |
| Caliber | 10mm | 10mm Auto |
| Barrel Length | 3.8 inches | 3.78 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.9 inches | 6.97 inches |
| Weight (without magazine) | 27.4 oz. | 24.34 oz. |
| Trigger System | META (4.75 lb. pull) | Safe Action (28 N pull) |
| Magazine Capacity | 14+1 rounds | 10 rounds (standard) |
Springfield XDM Elite Compact
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact is a modern marvel in compact firearms, blending power and precision in a manageable size.
Specs
- Type: Striker-fired semi-automatic
- Caliber: 10mm
- Capacity: 14+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
- Overall Length/Height/Width: 6.9/4.6/1.2 inches
- Weight: 27.4 oz.
- Construction: Melonite-finished carbon-steel slide, polymer frame
- Sights: Fixed; red fiber-optic front, white outline U-notch rear
- Trigger: META, with a measured pull of 4.75 lbs.
Glock 29
The Glock 29 stands as a testament to Glock’s enduring reputation for creating reliable, efficient, and powerful compact firearms.
Specs
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard: 10, Optional: 15
- Barrel Length: 3.78 inches
- Weight (with empty magazine): 26.81 oz.
- Trigger Pull: 28 N
Features Comparison: Springfield XDM Elite Compact Vs Glock 29
1. Trigger Feel and Performance
Springfield XDM Elite Compact
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact’s META trigger is a game-changer. The 4.75 lb. pull weight is ideal for balancing control and responsiveness.
This trigger’s engineering is evident in the tactile feedback and the crisp break, allowing for precise, controlled shots.
The minimal overtravel ensures a quick reset, which is crucial in rapid-firing scenarios. Its smooth operation and ergonomic design significantly enhance shooting accuracy and overall comfort.
Glock 29
While reliable, the Glock 29’s trigger system presents a heavier pull at around 6 lbs. This characteristic of the Glock Safe Action trigger, while ensuring safety, demands more effort from the shooter, which can impact precision, especially in rapid-fire situations.
The trigger safety blade, a hallmark of Glock’s design, can become somewhat uncomfortable during extended shooting sessions, impacting the overall shooting experience.
Winner
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact is the superior choice in this category. The precision and comfort of the META trigger system clearly surpass the Glock 29’s heavier and less ergonomic trigger, offering a more refined shooting experience, particularly in scenarios demanding quick and accurate shots.
2. Ergonomics and Handling
Springfield XDM Elite Compact
Ergonomics is where the Springfield XDM Elite Compact really shines. Its grip design is tailored for comfort and stability, accommodating various hand sizes seamlessly.
The inclusion of a mag well not only aids in quick magazine changes but also adds to the overall grip, enhancing control and reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
These design features contribute to a natural and comfortable hold, allowing for better handling and control, which is especially noticeable in dynamic shooting situations.
Glock 29
The Glock 29 maintains Glock’s traditional shooting ergonomics, characterized by a simpler grip and the well-known Glock shooting angle. While this setup might appeal to Glock enthusiasts, it necessitates some adjustment each time it’s used, especially for those not accustomed to the Glock design.
The standard grip, provided by the flush 10-round magazine, offers basic comfort but lacks the advanced ergonomic features of its competitor.
Winner
In this aspect, the Springfield XDM Elite Compact again takes the lead. Its thoughtful ergonomic design, including features like the comfortable grip and the practical mag well, offers a significant advantage over the Glock 29 in terms of handling comfort and shooter control.
3. Sights and Accuracy
Springfield XDM Elite Compact
The Springfield’s sighting system is impressive, featuring a red fiber-optic front and a white outline U-notch rear sight. This combination offers an excellent sight picture, facilitating rapid target acquisition.
Furthermore, Springfield’s optics-ready design adds a layer of versatility, allowing shooters to easily equip a red dot sight, which significantly enhances accuracy, particularly at longer distances and in varied lighting conditions.
Glock 29
For the Glock 29, the optional Glock factory night sights provide a reliable sight picture with their three-dot tritium night sight design.
Effective in low-light conditions, these sights are a solid choice. However, the Glock 29’s lack of an optics-ready feature limits its adaptability, particularly for shooters who prefer or require the use of additional optic systems for enhanced accuracy.
Winner
When it comes to sights and accuracy, the Springfield XDM Elite Compact is the clear winner. Its advanced sight system, coupled with the capability to mount optics, provides a significant edge over the Glock 29, offering enhanced accuracy and adaptability in a wider range of shooting scenarios.
4. Sight Options and Versatility
Springfield XDM Elite Compact
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact comes with a fixed red fiber-optic front sight and a white outline U-notch rear sight, offering a clear and quick target acquisition.
Additionally, it is designed to be optics-ready, providing versatility for those who prefer using red dot sights. This feature significantly enhances the shooter’s experience, especially in varied lighting conditions.
Glock 29
The Glock 29 I used was equipped with the optional Glock factory night sights, which are effective three-dot tritium night sights.
They provide a reliable sight picture in low-light conditions. However, the lack of an optics-ready option limits its adaptability compared to Springfield, especially for shooters who favor red dot sights for precision shooting.
Winner
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact is the winner in this category. Its combination of a high-quality fiber-optic front sight, U-notch rear sight, and the option to easily add an optic makes it more versatile and user-friendly compared to the Glock 29.
Pros & Cons of Springfield XDM Elite Compact
Pros
- Optics-ready for additional sight options.
- The META trigger system provides a smoother pull.
- Ergonomic design with a comfortable grip.
- Higher standard magazine capacity.
- Enhanced sight system for quick target acquisition.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the Glock 29.
Pros & Cons of Glock 29
Pros
- Renowned Glock reliability and durability.
- A simpler design may appeal to Glock enthusiasts.
- Lighter weight can be advantageous for carry.
- Compatible with various Glock 10mm magazines.
Cons
- Heavier trigger pull compared to the Springfield.
Similarities Between Springfield XDM Elite Compact & Glock 29
- Both are striker-fired semi-automatic pistols.
- Both chambered in 10mm caliber.
- Similar overall lengths and barrel sizes.
- Both have polymer frames and durable slide constructions.
- Designed for compact carry while maintaining good firepower.
Differences Between Springfield XDM Elite Compact & Glock 29
- Springfield has a META trigger; Glock has a Safe Action trigger system.
- Springfield is optics-ready; Glock is not.
- Springfield has a red fiber-optic front sight; Glock has optional tritium night sights.
- Springfield offers a higher standard magazine capacity.
- Glock is lighter in weight without a magazine.
- Springfield’s ergonomic design includes a mag well; Glock has a more traditional design.
- Springfield’s sights are more versatile for different lighting conditions.
- Glock 29’s standard magazine capacity is lower compared to Springfield.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison, it’s time to conclude this in-depth look at the Springfield XDM Elite Compact and the Glock 29.
Both firearms exhibit strengths and cater to different preferences, but one emerged as the more favorable choice for me.
The Springfield XDM Elite Compact, with its advanced features and ergonomic design, offers a more refined shooting experience. Its versatility, thanks to the optics-ready setup and superior trigger system, makes it a more adaptable choice for various shooting scenarios.
The Glock 29, while robust and reliable, lacks some of the modern enhancements that the Springfield boasts.
The decision ultimately hinges on personal preference and specific needs, but for me, the Springfield XDM Elite Compact stands out as the clear winner in this comparison.
FAQ’s
What is the overall length of a Springfield XDM?
The overall length of the Springfield XDM varies by model; the standard 10mm version is 7.7 inches, while the compact 9mm is 7.0 inches and the .40 S&W is 6.75 inches.
Does the Springfield XDM have a safety?
Yes, the Springfield XDM features a grip safety, a unique characteristic that sets it apart from models like Glock, preventing firing until firmly gripped.
Is the Springfield XDM good for concealed carry?
Yes, the Springfield XD-M Elite is highly regarded for concealed carry. It’s reliable, enjoyable to shoot, and competitively priced, making it an excellent choice for both competition and concealed carry.
How accurate is a Glock 29?
The Glock 29 is known for its impressive accuracy, with machine-like precision that enables comfortable shooting at 25 yards, even with heavier 220 grain rounds.
