Both are good firearms, however you may want to look at the Kahr CW or CM models. I picked up the Kahr CW45 it is a real shooter. I tried an XDs45 first and didn't like it nearly as much.
My two cents
I'm not a fan of Tupperware guns but.......why not a glock, tried true and proven. And from a gunsmith point of view, simple and few parts.
If it was I , I'd look and a 1911. It doesn't get much thinner than a 1911.
As for your two picks, xd is nice but m&p does not have grip safety , I would go with fewer parts.
Also, the m&p is a close glock copy.
Some do not like the xd, they say it sits too high in the hand.
ok I have big hands but I would like a compact for CC like a Nano, XDs or Shield but have not had a chance to shoot any of them.
I have a XD5 40 and really like it..
XDs with a Talon Grips in a Crossbreed Mini-Tuck. Comfortable and very easy to conceal. I've had zero issues after hundreds of rounds down range.
I will purchase my Shield tomorrow in 9mm. I choose the Shield over the XDs because I liked the way it felt in my hand better that the XDs. The local gun shop already checked the Shield to make sure it did not have the trigger issue S&W warned about. I have been waiting for this gun for 3 weeks now as my state will have its 2nd Amendment weekend this weekend which exempts sales tax.![]()
If it gives you an idea, the Shield without the extended magazine usually leaves people with their little finger unable to fit on the grip. My hands are so small that all of them fit on perfectly! However, they are also super long... I really don't foresee any of them being an issue for larger hands. It might not be as comfortable as it is for me, but not a problem.