With the release of the XD-S Mod.2 and 911, Springfield Armory has released two prime contenders into the cadre of concealed carry options. Compact, powerful and tough — with no shortage of features — the defensive duo is featured in the July/August issue of American Handgunner.

Of the polymer XD-S.2 in .45 ACP, Will Dabbs, MD, relays, “The XD-S Mod.2 Subcompact fits your hand like you were born with it, and the various technical attributes were clearly devised by folks who squeeze triggers for a living. [It] represents a literally unrivaled combination of portability and power.”

Michael Humphries was enthused with Springfield’s 911 micro .380, sharing, “If I need a deep-cover carry gun I can hide away easily, this would be one of my first choices.”

With all the new handgun enthusiasts joining the ranks, David Freeman provides a timely “how-to” on buying your first handgun. David provides valuable resources and covers the basics from caliber and carry options to why training, storing and maintaining firearms is an equally important part of the equation.

An Olympic Arms KRP Retro Pistol is up for grabs in the Handgun Of The Month giveaway. The 7.62x9mm pistol features an 11.5-inch button rifled stainless steel barrel with a Fiberite handguard and an A2 front gas block with adjustable sight post and bayonet lug. The winner will also receive a SB Tactical SBPDW Pistol Stabilizing Brace, Spyderco Sliverax knife and a Tx9R rechargeable flashlight from Coast Products. The total package is valued at $1,599.95. Readers are invited to enter the drawing for free by visiting www.americanhandgunner.com/giveaway.

The July/August issue ponders “Which Came First? ‘Pistol’ Calibers Or Carbines?” Mike “Duke” Venturino wades in on the answer with some historical evidence. On the cutlery front, Aimee Grant introduces some “Keen Cutters” boasting innovative technology and impressive craftsmanship. And the latest edition of “The Ayoob Files” recounts the harrowing experience drugstore owner Bryan Lee survived when two armed robbers entered his store, engaged him in gunfire and shot his mother.

Exclusive content is only a click away: This month’s online feature demonstrates how to add a final touch to a favorite sixgun with “Bowen Classic Arms’ Sights.” Log on to www.americanhandgunner.com/digital-version to find out more, and access previous issues of American Handgunner. The July/August issue can be purchased and downloaded as a PDF. A Kindle version is also available.