Springfield Armory XD-M Elite Precision 9MM 5.25" Barrel 22+1 - $507.77

The XDM Elite 5.25 is like the ultimate competition gun from 2012. It's got an adjustable rear sight and fiber optic front on a 5.25" barrel. The accuracy you can achieve with it in it's stock form is staggering due to the great ergonomics of the pistol. The trigger was enhanced in the Elite trim models with a new flatter trigger shoe and a lightened pull weight. As far as a competition pistol trigger is concerned it's easily good enough without modification. The problem is the magazines provided with their +3 base pad do not work in USPSA limited division - they're too long. They don't work in IDPA - because they're too long. The slide cuts were enhanced and are more functional than the old XDMs. Controls are ambidextrous so very lefty friendly. The grip texture is quite good for competitive shooting. Shooting the gun is very pleasant - it's by no means a handful in the recoil department. If you are committed to iron sight shooting then this gun has you covered. The fact it's not optic ready is a little disappointing for a competition gun where all the shooting sports are headed towards optics - but for what it is - it's excellent at what it's designed to do.