I'll throw in my. 02 too
My Cary is typically a Springfield XD9 subcompact (3" barrel), sometimes an XDm 40 with 3.8" barrel. You can see where my bias is
I would agree with the not going to the .380 as well. Depending on your situation and number of times you plan on going to the range, ammo costs are something to think about. Its amazing how many more rounds I shoot with the 9 over the 40 and 45.
Like cigars, try a few if possible, then decide what you like. In the end, it needs to fit you.
To some of the other posts, the xdm also has a match grade barrel, which most of us won't notice the difference, but that also explains some of the price difference. I won't get into the whole glock vs sa debate, but I do like the palm safety on my xd's (like it on my 1911 also). To each his own.
Phil