XD-S or XD-S Essentials Kit
 

I'm looking to ad a 9mm to my safe for cheaper shooting. Not really sure if I should get the XD-S or the Essentials Kit. What would you all do?

It's largely up to you.

The XD-S by itself should come with two mags and replacement backstraps (maybe they don't anymore?). The Essentials Kit has a bore brush and hard case on top of that.

I wouldn't have any interest in the bore brush and the hard case, so if it were cheaper, I'd just buy the pistol by itself.

Same gun, just different stuff. I'm sure the kit is great for "buying my first gun" guys, not worth much to everybody else.

I think the Essentials kit has fewer extras than the regular kit does. With the Essentials you do not get the holster and maybe not the magazine holder. I never found much use for the holster that came with my XD. If it was my money it would be the Essentials version.

XD-S = Includes rugged carry case, paddle holster, double magazine pouch, two interchangeable backstraps, two magazines, cable lock, bore brush and safety manual.

The essential package comes with two magazines, cable lock, bore brush, and case. It does not come with the XD Gear System which includes the XD gear belt holster, double magazine pouch, and magazine loader.

Whats the price difference? If you need the holster and mag pouches get it if the price works out. Otherwise don't. I only carry my XDS on an IWB holster so the holster that came with it is never used.
-Jake

I can get the Essentials Kit for $426 + tax so I may end up doing that. If I decide to use a holster It would be different than the factory one anyway.
Thank You all for the input!

XDs 9 Kit
 

I just bought the XDs 9 Essentials Kit and love it. Admittedly I haven't shot the gun yet but it comes with 2 back straps, bore brush, extra collar for the longer magazine, gun lock, fitted holster, and extra mag carrier. Nice hard case and mine was $489. The gun itself is light, comfortable to carry and handle, and very easy to field strip. Hope this helps.

Ruger LCP is a Best Bargain right now. Someone always has them on sale lately.