In World War I, the U.S. discovered that some of the low numbered M1903 Springfield receivers had burst because the metal had been burned by overheating it in manufacture. It was heated to the point that it was white hot with sparks coming out and held at that temperature long enough to burn most all the carbon out of the steel, leaving it porous where the carbon had burned out, very fragile, and brittle. When reading the description of this event in Hatcher’s Notebook, and the Army’s solution of going to temperature-controlled furnaces, one could get the impression that this problem was caused by judging the temperature by eye. Neither General Hatcher nor the Army Ordnance Department were experienced blacksmiths, though. As an experienced blacksmith of many years, I would like to set the record straight.

BURNING METAL

You harden metal at a cherry red heat. You burn metal at a white-hot heat with sparks coming off the metal as the carbon is burned out. It takes a little bit of time for it to burn out, also. There is a big heat difference between cherry red and white-hot, just as there is a big difference between the color of cherry red and white with sparks coming out. I would trust a careful apprentice to quench metal at cherry red. For an experienced blacksmith to burn metal is almost unheard of, and for him not to know that he had done it is not possible. To do this on multiple receivers is nothing but deliberate sabotage. Somebody was mad about something and taking it out on the work. There is just no other possibility.

It’s likely that Ordnance realized this while also recognizing a public scandal might ensue if news of failure were reported in the newspapers. It would be a scandal that could hurt the careers of all the men in charge of Ordnance, as well as destroying a lot of the confidence that the Army (and the public) had in the Ordnance Department. Better to quietly correct the problem and get temperature controls on the furnaces so they could blame the lack of them for the problem instead of causing a scandal.

Then again, it’s also possible that Ordnance never understood this, as their heat treatment of the receivers was the same as hardening a file. They wanted the glass smooth action of the Krag rifle and touted the great strength of file-hardened metal under a load but ignored the extreme brittleness of said metal under a sudden shock. Any good blacksmith could have told them this was a very bad idea.

Except for files, I’ve never hardened anything without tempering it, which is reheating it to anything from a straw yellow to a blue, the latter color being used for springs, knives, razors, and axes. Some folks have complained that the receivers of Mauser rifles were too soft. Well, they didn’t break or give trouble in over 100 years of hard service, and they have successfully been re-barreled for every cartridge that will fit through the action. Softer is better for sudden shock loads, such as those you get with a ruptured cartridge case… which will burst the file hardened receivers of the low numbered Springfield rifles.

BURSTING SPRINGFIELDS

The problem surfaced with the poor-quality ammunition that came out in WWI when Ordnance reported that their ammunition was getting worse. Soft brass and erratic loading of powder (with some loads that exceeding the 70,000 PSI army proof load) coupled with the fact that the last part of a cartridge case projects out over an eight of an inch (specifically 0.147 to 0.1485-inch) on a Springfield or M98 Mauser rifle is a formula for ruptured cartridge cases. When that happens, the brittle, file-hard receivers of the low number Springfield rifles burst. If the steel was burnt, it had very little strength; it burst even quicker.

THE FIX

Between 1917 and 1929, there were 61 cases of receivers blowing up. Attempts to reheat treat the receivers met with inconsistent results because often the steel used did not meet the specifications for composition. Ordnance finally gave up trying to repair the faulty receivers. They pivoted and made some good receivers that were hardened AND tempered, calling them double heat treated, and then went to nickel steel. During this time, some low numbered receivers got mixed in with the new, safe receivers… the cut-off date for manufacturing the old glass-hard receivers was not exactly recorded. How many ways can they screw up!? After thoroughly investigating the problem, Ordnance wanted to scrap ALL of the old receivers and replace them with updated, safe ones, but the money for this was never appropriated.

In their attempt to copy the M98 Mauser and call it an American invention (so that they wouldn’t catch the flak they had caught over previously adopting the Norwegian Krag rifle) Ordnance succeeded in making the only M98 variant that had its receivers blow up!

SAFETY, STOCK, AND SIGHT ISSUES

Ordnance also apparently didn’t appreciate that the thumb notch cutout on the left side of the M98 receiver was there as a last line of defense to protect the shooter’s eyes by diverting the gas from a pierced primer or ruptured cartridge case. They coupled the cocking knob from the Krag rifle with a 13-inch length-of-pull stock that resulted in some soldiers seriously injuring their eye on the cocking piece when rapidly working the bolt. Most soldiers learned to either move their head way back or drop the rifle from their shoulder when working the bolt.

In the British gun trade, rifle stocks are custom fitted to the shooter’s individual measurements to a sixteenth of an inch in all directions. A 13-inch length-of-pull is for people 4-and-a-half feet tall and shorter. That’s the average height of a 10-year-old. To make a soldier’s rifle stock that short is insane. The M1928A1 Thompson submachine gun had a 15-inch length-of-pull and was universally lauded for its extraordinary handling qualities.

Mauser rifles came with a “V” rear sight and an inverted “V” front sight. This front sight has a broad base that easily catches the eye in low light and a narrow top enabling minute-of-angle groups. It’s a rugged arrangement and can stand alone with no protection. In the U.S., Ordnance had long favored a narrow blade that needed a hood or side-mounted wings to protect it. A blade hood cuts down light on the sight, making it hard to see in low light. As a result, later rifles with protective side wings on the front sight sometimes had soldiers sighting on the wing instead of the blade in the hurried stress of combat.

Despite these shortcomings, the M1903 Springfield rifle series became one of the most respected and loved rifles in U.S. military history, even serving iron-sighted snipers in the Vietnam War some 70 years after the rifle’s introduction. It’s just a shame that it had to go through these unnecessary problems.

Red, white, and polished blue steel. The 4th of July is a celebration of freedom, and America’s freedom was forged through courage and gunpowder. We’re looking back at the top 25 American guns of all time, and the competition is fierce. Most of the featured firearms are offered in Rock Island Auction Company’s upcoming August Premier Auction, along with a few examples from past events.

Iconic American arms from every era will be featured in Rock Island Auction Company’s August Premier.

The Kentucky Rifle

One of the first truly iconic arms of America was pioneered by German and Swiss gunsmiths who immigrated to the Colonies in the 18th century. Popularly known as the Kentucky Rifle or Pennsylvania Rifle, the American Long Rifle allowed accurate shooting up to 200 yards or more, a decisive advantage to backwoodsmen while hunting in the western wilderness or sniping Red Coats during the Revolutionary War and War of 1812.

A John Armstrong Maryland Golden Age flintlock American Long Rifle, an extraordinary example of one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

Colt Model 1851 Navy

A personal favorite of Samuel Colt, the Model 1851 Navy was one of the most prevalent sidearms on both sides of the American Civil War, even serving as the basis for numerous Confederate produced brass-frame revolver styles like the Griswold & Gunnison Revolver and the Leech & Rigdon revolvers. The sturdy sixgun’s impressive production numbers, widespread use on the American frontier, and status as the favored revolver for Western legends like Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, and countless early gunslingers elevate the 1851 Navy to one of best American guns of all time.

An exemplary cased, early factory engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver with extremely scarce gold plated grip straps. The Navy set the standard for countless black powder revolvers, earning a clear spot on any list of iconic arms of America. Available this August.

The Sharps Rifle and Carbine

The various models of Sharps rifles and carbines earned a reputation as iconic arms of America in the Civil War, the Old West, and in popular culture thanks to films like ‘Quigley Down Under’ and ‘True Grit.’  Produced from the Antebellum Era through the late-19th century and noted for their exceptional accuracy and reliability, the Sharps filled a key role during the Civil War when the Union purchased approximately 80,000 Sharps carbines and almost 10,000 rifles. Specially ordered Sharps rifles were famously fielded by the 1st and 2nd U.S. Sharpshooter Regiments (the Berdan’s Sharpshooters) to great effect.

A historic Sharps Model Model 1853 “John Brown Sharps/Beecher’s Bible” slant breech percussion carbine documented as shipped to abolitionist General Samuel C. Pomeroy in Kansas during the Bleeding Kansas period. For its role in revolutionizing sniping tactics, the Sharps rifle platform wins a nod as one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

The Springfield Model 1861 Rifle-Musket

The Springfield Model 1861 rifle-musket became one of the most prolific Northern rifles issued during the Civil War, taking the field in quantity from 1862 onward, from Shiloh to Appomattox. With over 1 million being produced during the conflict by Springfield Armory and two dozen other firearm producers, the dependable .58 caliber rifle improved precision over infantry traditional musket. This percussion powerhouse finds a worthy spot on our list of America’s best guns of all time thanks to its role in winning the Civil War, protecting workers on the Transcontinental Railroad, and serving as the material platform for a line of Springfield breechloading rifles that would culminate with the 1873 Trapdoor.

An outstanding Civil War U.S. Springfield Model 1863 Type II/1864 percussion rifle-musket, the final iteration of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Remington Rolling Block

Developed from the Remington “Split Breech” carbine, a Civil War gun designed to fire the same cartridges as the Spencer repeater, the Remington Rolling Block family became not just one of the most iconic arms of America but a popular longarm around the world. As the most widely used single shot military breechloader of the 19th century, the Remington Rolling Block’s service record is expansive. The gun was produced in a variety of calibers, both rimfire and centerfire, and its action was sturdy enough to easily accommodate the increased pressure of new smokeless powders hitting the market in the late 1890s.

An impressive example of one of the best frontier guns of all time, this Remington No. 1 Rolling Block long-range target rifle sold for $8,050 in RIAC’s May 2021 Premier Auction.

The Colt Single Action Army

The Colt Single Action Army revolver is a no-brainer inclusion for any best guns of all time list. Possibly the most famous firearm ever made, “Judge Colt and His Jury of Six” was first adopted by the U.S. Army in July 1873 and went on to serve as the choice sidearm for countless lawmen, cowboys, homesteaders, and desperados who came to define the American frontier. For 150 years, the Colt SAA has prominently appeared in dime novels, radio shows, film, and television, and today continues to represent the enduring spirit of the American West.

An Ainsworth inspected Lot Five U.S. Cavalry Colt Single Action Army revolver with a Kopec Gold Seal letter, a stunning early example of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

The Winchester 1873

A well-armed frontiersman carried a Colt on his hip and a Winchester over his shoulder. As the successor to the Henry rifle and the 1866 Yellowboy, the Model 1873 put the name Winchester on the map and went on to conquer the open range. Dubbed “the Gun that Won the West”, the Winchester ’73 became a symbol of freedom and self-determination on the American frontier. From movie sets to modern-day cowboy action shooting competitions, these iconic arms of America have stood the test of time.

An exceptional example of one of the best guns of all time, a special order deluxe Winchester Model 1873 rifle. Available this August.

Winchester Model 94

The Winchester Model 1894 hit the scene too late to see the height of the American Wild West, but the rifle certainly kept Winchester’s frontier legacy alive. The Winchester 94’s balance and slim profile made it a favorite walking gun for hunters, ranchers, and law enforcement who appreciated the power and reliability of Winchester’s .30-30 WCF smokeless cartridge. The classic lever gun’s accuracy, simplicity, and rugged resilience earned it a place in millions of gun racks across America. In terms of tried-and-tested hunting arms, the Winchester Model 94 is hands down one of the best guns of all time.

A pre-64 Winchester Model 94 carbine with its original box, an outstanding example of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Smith & Wesson Military and Police and Model 10

What qualities should a model have to be considered one of the best guns of all time? Production numbers? Versatility? Fame? The Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police series checks all those boxes and more, remaining in continuous production for over a century and becoming the overwhelming favorite sidearm of countless police forces and militaries around the world. Later renamed the Model 10, this iconic revolver became the most produced wheel gun platform of the 20th century and a mainstay of nearly every police department around the country well into the 1980s. Now that’s an American success story.

As iconic arms of America go, it doesn’t get much better than a classic Smith & Wesson. This factory engraved .38 Military & Police Model of 1905 Fourth Change revolver sold for $4,025 in December of 2020.

Marlin Model 39A

The first lever action chambered in .22 LR, this classic Marlin went through a number of name changes over the last 132 years. Releasing as the Marlin Model 1891, the gun was redubbed “Bicycle Rifle” in 1897, then again renamed to Model 39 in 1922 before finally embracing its most famous iteration in 1939 in the Marlin 1939A.  As the longest continuously produced rifle in the world and the lever action Annie Oakley made famous, the Marlin Model 39A and its predecessors are undeniably iconic arms of America.

A scarce Marlin 90th anniversary Model Golden 39A rifle sold for $4,313 in December of 2021. As .22 rifles go, one of the best guns of all time.

Winchester Model 1897 Shotgun

One of the best guns of all time in terms of military shotguns, the Winchester Model 1897 shotgun was popularized as a sporting arm before finding a role during the Philippine-American War. In WW1, the Model 1897 was officially adopted as the U.S. “Model of 1917 Trench Shotgun” and modified with a bayonet lug, a heat shield, and a shorter barrel for maneuverability in the trenches of Western Europe. The shotgun and its slam fire heroics proved effective enough to earn a diplomatic protest from the Germans, who claimed that America’s use of trench guns caused “unnecessary suffering.”

The Winchester Model 1897 slide action trench shotgun earned a larger-than-life reputation in WW1 and has become one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

1903 Springfield Rifle

Not all iconic arms of America were born in the Land of Stars and Stripes. Based on the German Mauser bolt action, America took the design and made it their own with the Springfield Model 1903 rifle. Initially chambered in .30-03, the rifle suffered from poor trajectory and excessive barrel wear. However, by chambering a lighter, spitzer bullet and a cooler burning propellant, a legend was born in the .30-06 cartridge, and battlefield and deer stand would soon feel the wrath of the mighty Springfield Model 1903.

One of the best guns of all time by sheer production numbers, the U.S. Springfield Model 1903 rifle is still widely fielded by shooters and hunters today. This rare example is equipped with the innovative 1918 Mark I Pedersen Device.

The Colt 1911

As the longest-serving military sidearm in American history, the legendary Colt 1911 pistol is going to find itself in any best guns of all time discussion. The brainchild of John Moses Browning, this .45-caliber magazine-fed semi-automatic pistol set a new design standard that helped the United States become back to back World War champs and continues to be carried by numerous American officers to this day. The M1911 design has been widely emulated, with few major changes made to the pistol’s internals over the decades, a testament to the gun’s exemplary performance record.

A scarce 1937 production Colt U.S. Navy contract Model 1911/1911A1 transitional semi-pistol. The 1911 pistol is easily one of the most recognizable and iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Browning Auto-5

John Browning was said to consider the Auto-5 his greatest achievement, a bold statement from the prolific gun inventor and more than enough to earn the famous “Humpback” a solid ranking among the most iconic arms of America. Browning’s 1903 recoil-operated design was a versatile workhorse for all types of fowling and target shooting. This sturdy scattergun continues to be fielded by the modern sportsman today and holds the title of second-best autoloading shotty of all time.

As the first successful semi-automatic shotgun, the Auto-5 should be considered one of the best guns of all time. The fantastic example below is a double signed, engraved and gold inlaid Belgium Browning Gold Classic Auto-5 with its original box. Available this August.

The Thompson Submachine Gun

In terms of cultural impact and a notable service record in WW2, Hollywood’s favorite gangster weapon merits consideration as one of the best guns of all time. Designed by John Thompson, the fully automatic Tommy Gun was completed too late to fill its intended role as a WW1 trench sweeper. The inventor subsequently marketed the weapon to everyone from law enforcement to ranchers, but the deadly submachinegun found an unexpected niche with organized crime. On the eve of WW2, the Thompson submachine gun was adopted by the U.S. military and employed by the British as well, with over 1.5 million of the new military-issued M1928A1 and M1A1 produced. This earned the weapon international recognition through German and Japanese propaganda posters that portrayed the U.S. and her allies as Tommy-toting gangsters.

From mafia to military to Hollywood, the Thompson became one of the most iconic arms of America. This fantastic example is a police documented Colt Thompson Model 1921 that includes a case and extra magazines. Available this August.

The M2 Machine Gun

A good portion of John Browning’s inventions have become iconic arms of American history, including the famous M2 Heavy Machine Gun. Affectionately dubbed “Ma Deuce” and “The Mother of All Machine Guns” by the troops who continue to rely on its .50 caliber firepower, this air-cooled, belt-fed behemoth has stood the test of time like few other firearms. As a U.S. military mainstay since the 1930s, the M2 has touched the battlefield in every major American conflict from WW2 onward.

One of the best guns of all time, this M2 machine gun lived up to its iconic reputation and sold for a stunning $94,000 in RIAC’s May Premier.

Ithaca 37

Hailed by many hunters as one of the best guns of all time, the Ithaca 37 shotgun is a legendary platform inspired by the ideas of John Moses Browning and John Douglas Pedersen. This pump action icon quickly found a market after its 1937 release and never looked back, becoming the longest continuously-produced shotgun in American history and earning a reputation as a versatile autoloader that was well suited for field, police, and military duty alike.

One of the most iconic arms of America in terms of longevity and adaptability, this USSF marked Ithaca Model 37 Special Forces trench-style shotgun highlights the platforms role as a military weapon. Available this August.

The M1 Garand

In the list of iconic arms of America during WW2, the M1 Garand might be number one. Fielded by millions of American GIs, General George Patton once hailed the rifle as, “the greatest battle implement ever devised.” The .30-caliber M1 Garand served as the standard U.S. infantry rifle from 1936 to 1959 and it continued to see use as late as the Vietnam War. From Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers to the Call of Duty video game series, few weapons can symbolize America’s valor in WW2 better than John Garand’s iconic rifle.

An exceptional WW2 U.S. Winchester “WIN-13” M1 Garand. For its role as WW2s most successful semi-automatic infantry rifle, the M1 Garand can be hailed one of the best guns of all time. Available this August.

The M1 Carbine

Another red-blooded American gun that complimented the M1 Garand’s high-volume fire, the M1 Carbine offered an effective firearm sized somewhere between a rifle and a pistol that was ideal for units like paratroopers, drivers, weapon crews, intelligence officers, and communications personnel who required a lighter burden. One of the best guns of all time thanks to its spectacular service history, the M1 carbine helped lead the United States to victory in Europe and the Pacific theater then went on to become widely owned and fielded after the war thanks to an abundance of WW2 surplus.

Winchester Model 70

If you’re widely known as the superlative bolt action rifle, chances are you’re going to make America’s best guns of all time list. Enter the Winchester Model 70. Widely dubbed “the rifleman’s rifle,” the Model 70 has gone through numerous changes and iterations over its nearly nine decades of production and is chambered to take everything from white-tailed deer to African dangerous game. The gun served the United States Marines as their precision rifle during the Vietnam War, famously fielded by Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock, who used the mighty Model 70 during most of his 93 confirmed kills. Today, the Winchester Model 70 continues to find favor with shooters and collectors, the latter preferring the desirable “Pre-64” production model.

One of the most iconic arms of America, the Winchester Model 70 is instantly recognizable to nearly every sporting gun enthusiast. This rare documented U.S. property marked Winchester Model 70 “Van Orden Sniper” rifle includes an 8x Unertl U.S.M.C. sniper scope and case and a CMP Certificate of Authenticity. Available this August.

Smith & Wesson Model 29

Elmer Keith and Clint Eastwood helped elevate the .44 Magnum Smith & Wesson Model 29 into one of the iconic arms of America. Elmer Keith had long been advocating for a more powerful version of the .44 Special cartridge. In 1955, Remington Arms introduced the .44 Remington Magnum cartridge, while Smith & Wesson delivered a revolver to chamber the beast. The S&W Model 29 found niche success with handgun hunters, law enforcement, and revolver lovers before launching into the stratosphere thanks to 1971’s ‘Dirty Harry.’ While this powerhouse pistol has been since surpassed by monsters like the .500 S&W Magnum, for a time Dirty Harry’s revolver truly was the most powerful handgun in the world.  

A Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 29-5 revolver from the Hank Williams Jr. Collection sold for $10,350 at RIAC in September 2021. For it’s power, aesthetic, and cultural appeal, the Model 29 family earns a nod as one of America’s best guns of all time.

Remington Model 870

With over 12 million in circulation and counting, the Remington Model 870 should be considered a candidate for any top 25 best guns of all time list. A shotgun known for its rugged reliability, the Model 870 has lent itself perfectly to every need over the last seven decades. Game wardens, duck hunters, police officers, and Vietnam Navy Seals have all shouldered the Model 870, and the gun is featured in nearly every modern film and TV show involving law enforcement, zombies, or action of any sort. One would be pressed not to find an example of this robust shotty in every town across the United States, and it continues to sell as the recently introduced Remington 870 Fieldmaster.

This example of a Remington Wingmaster 870 realized an astounding $38,188 in RIAC’s December 2021 Premier Auction, an impressive example of one of the most iconic arms of America.

The M60 Machine Gun

First issued in 1959, the M60 machine gun was an attempt to combine the firepower of the M1919 Browning with the relative mobility of the BAR. What resulted was one of the most iconic arms of America, a 23-pound belt-fed beast that could eat a ton of  7.62mm ammo and chew through anything down range. The M60 often found itself in the mud and muck during combat, and its relatively slow cyclic rate made this heavy hitter sound akin to a grunting boar. The Pig humped, sailed, and soared through Vietnam, Operation Just Cause, and the Persian Gulf War and continues to see service in specialized roles today.

Inspired by the German FG42 and MG42, the M60 became one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

Marlin Model 60

For years, Marlin billed the Model 60 as “the most popular 22 in the world.” Whether that’s enough to also call this prolific semi-auto one of the best guns of all time is up for debate, but it certainly ranks as an American essential. Introduced in 1960, Marlin’s semi-auto .22 LR tack driver remained in production for six decades and was carried by generations of Americans who fell in love with its resiliency and ease of use. For target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting, the Marlin Model 60 is a true American classic.

Caleb Savant from Brownells shows off the Marlin Model 60, one of the most iconic arms of America.

The M16

Adapted from the famous ArmaLite AR-15 platform, the M16 offered an all-in-one battle rifle that could excel at both distance combat and close-quarter fighting. Though the refinement of the M16 was not without its hurdles, the rifle’s updates and successors soon stepped up to the challenges of modern warfare and became the longest-serving infantry long arm in U.S. military history, a contemporary defender of Lady Liberty, and one of the indisputably iconic arms of America.

Who doesn’t need a Colt M16A1 selective fire rifle in the 9 million serial range? Available this August.

Iconic Arms of America

While our top 25 list includes some undeniable American icons, there are countless gun models that could be considered legends in their field. For their historic influence, market success, or cultural impact, a few honorable mentions include the Colt Walker, the Hawken rifle, the Derringer, the Gatling Gun, the Winchester Model 1895, the Colt Detective Special, and the Winchester Model 21 shotgun, and examples of all these gun collecting cornerstones can be found at Rock Island Auction Company.

Perhaps the most influential non-firearm weapon in American history, the Bowie Knife carries a fascinating story in its own right. This rare Tillotson Sheffield patriotic “Gold Hunters Knife” Bowie knife is available this available this August.

Carrying a firearm while out and about in the wilderness albeit camping, hiking, riding horse or ATV, fishing, or exploring to see what is on the other side of the hill seems only prudent. Even a hunter carrying a rifle is not wrong to consider bringing along a heavy hitting sidearm, especially if working in remote country. None of this is a new concept. The earliest settlers kept flintlock rifle and pistol muskets handy for peace of mind against natures’ threats—both four and two legged—and basic survival preparedness. The same trend continued as Europeans, then Americans, spread westward.

The single action revolver with a large hole in the barrel has been a constant carry along companion for nearly 150 years. This practice continues today with modern wheel gun renditions. It’s hard to accept there are no other contenders worthy of consideration for wilderness carry other than a design with lineage dating back to 1873. Polymer semi autos have proven their worth as personal defense weapons since arriving on the scene in the early 1980s. What has stymied semi-automatics from earning a spot as a wilderness weapon is caliber selection. Initially, it was reliability concerns. Compounding this…9mm and even 45ACP cartridges are a little light in power factor for surly animal defense.

All of this is subtly changing with semi-automatic polymer striker fired handguns entering their fourth decade of service. To sweeten the deal how about a “muscled” up offering that chambers something in the 41 Magnum power range? Well, if you are going to shake things up, you might as well go all the way and mount a red dot optic on the slide, as well.

Enter a couple 10mms from Springfield Armory in the form of the XD-M Elite 3.8 Compact OSP and XD-M Elite 4.5 OSP, each with Hex Dragonfly red dots. This is about as far away as you can get from the legacy single action revolver.

We decided to explore the short and long of the Springfield XD-M Elites by examining both 3.8-inch and 4.5-inch variants. Springfield Armory Hex Dragonfly red dots are fitted to both handguns. The 3.8 XD-M Elite has magazine capacity of 11 rounds and the 4.5 XD-M Elite, 16 rounds. The 16-round magazine can be used in the 3.8 XD-M Elite. Weight is 28.5 ounces and 32 ounces, respectively. Each features ambidextrous slide stop, fiber optic front, and Tactical Rack U-Do Rear sights. Removable short magwells are also present. Springfield Armory has developed the XD-M Elite to serve as the premium version of XD-series in order to show off the potential of the platform.

Evolution has been a constant with the Springfield Armory XD, with the XD-M Elite the latest rendition. The XD-M Elite 10mms featured here are the latest creation building upon customer feedback and manufacturing expertise. Thankfully, Springfield Armory maintained the grip angle with the XD-M Elite model, instead they focused changes on other aspects such as the trigger, magazine well, undercut trigger guard, enhanced slide serrations, extended beavertail, and sights. I have always felt the XD’s grip safety and grip angle give off the aura of a polymer framed 1911. An integral railed dust cover allows for lights/laser. The XD-M Elite also comes with interchangeable backstraps to accommodate individual shooter requirements for grip feel. Vertical chevron-like cuts are found at the rear and front of the XD-M Elite’s slide for increased purchase when manipulating the slide.

A significant enhancement with the XD-M Elite consists of Springfield’s Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly (META). Not only is the META one of the best out-of-the box triggers; it stacks up well with many aftermarket trigger offerings. The trigger pull measured approximately 5 pounds. The Springfield Armory META’s straight trigger offers a near 90-degree break for better geometry and is less likely to pull sights to the right or left. The key with the XD-M Elite is the same trigger pull every time. Overall, the XD-M Elite META trigger is an asset.

The 3.8 XD-M Elite appeals with its stout compact dimensions while still seething with 10mm power. Its size allows for multipurpose role consideration. It’s feasible to consider the 3.8 XD-M Elite for everyday concealed carry as well as outdoor/wilderness use. The 3.8 XD-M Elite was used with a Premier Body Armor (PBA) bundle combining Viktos Upscale Sling bag with PBA Level IIIA ballistic panel. The red dot equipped 10mm XD-M Elite is quite the potent package. It really shows off the flexibility of the smaller brother XD-M Elite.

The 4.5 XD-M Elite is pure wilderness carry with 4.5-inch barrel wringing velocity out of the 10mm and providing big bore handgun performance. While increased only under an inch in barrel length and few ounces in weight, the 4.5 XD-M feels a good bit larger than its 3.8 XD-M Elite sibling. With the 3.8 XD-M your bottom finger hangs off the bottom of the grip. Height is only 4.58 inches with the 3.8 XD-M Elite. Springfield does offer a 10mm 15-round magazine with sleeve that serves to extend the 3.8 XD-M Elite’s grip.

The 10mm was designed to be a rimless semi-automatic pistol cartridge with ballistics comparable with the .41 Magnum. The brief FBI flirtation with the 10mm also raised its profile within the shooting community. Full powered JHP and FMJ 10mm loads from Hornady, Federal, and Double Tap were used with the Springfield XD-M Elite 10mms. Neither had any issues digesting JHP profile bullets. This is an important as hunters or security conscience civilians will use expanding ammunition for maximum terminal performance.

Federal Premium 180 grain Trophy Bonded 10mm shows the 10mm potential compared to 9mm or 45ACP. The Federal Trophy Bonded 10mm bullet is based on the rifle bullet version of the same name. The Federal load drives a 180-grain JSP bullet at 1,275 feet per second delivering 650 foot-pounds of energy which puts it roughly between the 357 Magnum and 41 Magnum for comparison purposes. This kind of power offers great flexibility for the user in terms of use in a personal defense, or backwoods use.

Double Tap offers 10mm loads for personal defense and hunting. Various jacketed hollow point and hard cast bullets give performance options across a broad spectrum. For example, the Double Tap 200 grain Hardcast Solid has a 21 Brinell hardcast rating, limiting deformation upon impact. Its wide, flat-nose meplat cuts a large, clean hole without any flight deviation or deflection when striking an animal.

10mm loads used from Hornady consisted of 180-grain XTP and 175-grain FlexLock Critical Duty. These Hornady loads were designed with personal defense in mind with XTP and Critical Defense bullets loaded to 1150 to 1250 fps. The Critical Duty’s FlexLock bullets have a heavy jacket and a harder, high-antimony core designed to defeat barriers. The jackets are locked to the core via the same InterLock process the company uses on its centerfire rifle bullets. Hornady has also taken full advantage of recent advances in propellant technology and is using low muzzle flash powder in Critical Duty ammunition. Hornady Critical Duty FlexLock bullets balance barrier penetration with proper expansion in the target for maximum effectiveness. The ogives of the Critical Duty bullets do not taper much as compared to other hollow point bullets, which improves feeding characteristics in autoloaders. The nickel-plated cases are another attention to detail that limits drag into or out of a weapon’s chamber, limiting the chance of failure to feed or extract. Critical Duty, as the name implies, was designed with law enforcement users in mind. However, security conscience citizens or hunters would be remiss in not to at least considering it for use, as well.

Another manufacturer to consider, especially for hunting purposes is Buffalo Bore. Buffalo Bore is a prime source of true 10mm ammunition, offering several bullet types ranging from hard cast, JHC, to FMJ-FN. The Buffalo Bore hard cast loads are an excellent option for anyone needing barrier penetration or unwavering deep penetration in a large game animal. The Buffalo Bore 220-grain Hard Cast Flat Nose loads moving at nearly 1145 fps are an excellent option for anyone contemplating using the 10mm against heavy boned animals where deep penetration is a must.

Much anticipation awaited firing the two Springfield XD-M Elite 10mms. Range T&E took place at Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC). The Federal Vital Shok 180-grain Trophy Bonded, and Buffalo Bore were the stoutest loads, but in no way harsh or unmanageable. Anecdotally, empty brass was ejected briskly several feet away–such was the slide velocity. The Springfield XD-M Elite polymer frames were appreciated for absorbing and mitigating felt recoil. Even the more compact 3.8 XD-M Elite proved no problem. EVTC steel targets were rocked with a more substantial smack than a typical handgun round. While one was definitely aware you were not firing a 9mm, recoil was not prohibitive with accurate rapid shots possible. All of the 10mm loads tested had no issue penetrating windshield or car body sheet metal. This is the type of performance and barrier penetration capability that the 10mm was designed for. Further range testing consisting of dumping multiple magazines at several targets in rapid fashion.

PERFORMANCE

XD-M Elite 3.8 Compact OSP

Each XD-M Elite was tested fired through a Caldwell precision chronograph to determine the effect of barrel length on velocity per specific load. Velocity gain between the 3.8-inch XD-M Elite and 4.5-inch XD-M Elite was in the 40-60 feet per second range. For example, the Buffalo Bore 180-grain JHP clocked in at 1270 fps from the 3.8 and 1305 fps from the longer barreled 4.5.

PERFORMANCE

XD-M Elite 4.5 OSP

The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite OSP handguns were tested at the range first by verifying Hex Dragonfly sight zero and then firing several magazines at various steel and paper targets. This quickly shows if any reliability issues exist. Further testing consisted of strings of fire against steel plate racks and steel popper targets at 15, 25, and 45 yards. An informal accuracy test was conducted from a rudimentary bench position. Each XD-M Elite delivered by constantly producing 2-inch or better groups at 25 yards.

As many “maturing” shooters can attest, the single focus plane with the red dot is easier to shoot accurately than coordinating front and rear sights. Point shooting with the Hex Dragonfly red dot is still very possible when using the window as a ghost ring—albeit a large ghost ring—if forced to react spontaneously to a threat. In short, if fur is in the glass, start pulling the trigger. The Hex Dragonfly equipped XD-M Elites came into their own for precise fire at any range desired with placing the dot on the target and applying correct trigger control. The Springfield Armory XD-M Elites demonstrated the ability to hit steel man popper targets at 50 yards with amazing efficiency and even out to 100 yards with regularity. The Hex Dragonfly red dot levels the playing field between the shorter sight radius of the 3.8 Elite the longer 4.5 Elite’s when reaching out to distant targets.

Holster selection for wilderness carry is just as critical as for personal defense. Your large handgun must not impact your primary task, yet it must remain accessible at a moment’s notice. A variety of holsters were used with the Springfield XD-M Elite 10mms. DeSantis and Galco holsters proved solid hip carry selections for the XD-M Elites. Once clothing layers were problematic, a chest rig from CrossBreed was employed. It can be worn over clothing or snuggled under outer layer. The CrossBreed Chest Rig employs CrossBreed’s dual construction technique of kydex pocket with wide, perforated suede backer. Multiple points of retention kept the XD-M Elites in place no matter the activity—riding horses, riding ATVs, or hiking.

There are many situations in which the penetration and power of a 10mm is advantageous. Both of the Springfield XD-M Elite 10mms place real power in an accurate and reliable handgun package. The XD-M Elite 3.8 Compact OSP and XD-M Elite 4.5 OSP represent a good balance of features for a myriad of uses beyond just wilderness carry considerations. Each of the 10mm Springfield XD-M Elite OSPs allow a user to indulge oneself by having something out of the ordinary, while maintaining sound functionality.

While nostalgic sentiment may push you toward the revolver for wilderness carry, it is hard to argue against 12 or 17 rounds (loaded magazine plus one chambered) of full power 10mm found in the two Springfield XD-M Elites. Carrying spare ammunition and reloading is pretty efficient, as well. Wilderness carry of a sidearm has one purpose—to be there when you need it.

SPECIFICATIONS

Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 3.8 Compact OSP with Hex Dragonfly red dot

SPECIFICATIONS

XD-M Elite 4.5 OSP with Hex Dragonfly red dot

SITES OF INTEREST

Springfield Armory www.springfield-armory.com

HornadyMfg.Inc www.hornady.com

Buffalo Bore Ammunition www.buffalobore.com

CrossBreed Holsters www.crossbreedholsters.com

Galco Holsters www.galcogunleather.com

DeSantis Gunhide www.desantisholster.com

Double Tap Ammunition www.doubletapammo.com

Premier Body Armor www.premierbodyarmor.com