Springfield XD 45

Question
I am wondering if I should use +P ammo in my Springfield XD 45.

Answer
Jason,

Your Springfield can handle the +P ammo just fine.  The question is whether to use it or not.  

Essentially what +P ammo does is give your .45 caliber bullet a slightly higher velocity.  Normal .45 velocities are around 850 feet per second with energy delivered about 375 ft lbs.  

The +P loads will go with a velocity of 950-975 feet/sec with energy delivered more in the range of 450 ft lbs. Both of these are with the normal 230 grain bullet.

A +P load is a faster, more penetrating, more hard hitting round.  It will generally do greater damage to any human target you shoot and get better penetration for wounding in deep organs.

This increased power comes with the trade off of increased recoil and cost.  Remember that you must be able to accurately deliver rounds on target for them to have any effect.  If you can shoot the +P loads accurately, certainly you should feel free to use them for defensive ammo.

My H&K USP Compact .45, is always loaded with Hornady TAP, 230 gr. +P ammo.  In my personal experience, it performs exceptionally.

Hope this give you the answer you are looking for...

Regards,

Doug