I've got an XDs and compared to the LC9, the Nano, the SA EMP, LCP, and the Kahr PM40....for the size of the gun, the recoil is the same, solid, manageable, and it feels more back into your hand than rise (flip). I bought a Pierce grip extension for it, for my pinkie; thats the trick. It made it perfect, easier to shoot, and better repeat shots. My hands are big, and the full size XDm does feel better, but its just to big for me to carry. The XDs really is a nice shooter for its size, and I think you can shoot it all day.