I liked the article comparing the XD Sub in 3" vs the Tactical in 5". Sometimes a good 'ol test comparison from an experienced shooter is as valuable as gold. But make no bones about it, if you want a side arm and you are into open-carry then the 5" is spot on. For conceal carry the 3" is my choice even though a bit bigger than the myriad of other choices out there in the 9mm world. I have the XD Sub in 40 S&W and it is PERFECT for me, size, wt, power, and size for my conceal carry choice. It is deadly accurate using 135gr Federal Hydra-Shock ammo at 30 yds even farther. With practice I have become much better with 165gr and like the SA XD Subcompact tremendously for its shootability, takedown, and use right out of the box, except add a mag to hold more is highly desireable. I can imagine the XD Sub in 45 Auto would be like holding a Tiger by the tail, but hey, some ppl like that kinda challenge and after a fair amount of time shooting that little beast you are bound to get better all the way around. Great article, really like my XD Sub in 40 S&W (I like to think of it as a 10mm Kurtz).