imported post
The entire XD series are nice shooting, durable, low maintenance firearms. I have shot nearly all of the offerings excepting the XD(M) and a few others. The entire Sig P-series are excellent shooting, wonderful firearms, however I question that they can take the abuse and neglect that the XDs can. Which is better depends on how and where you intend to carry and use it. I have both, enjoy both, carry both.
For a day to day regular life sidearm, if I had to pick between the XD and Sig, I would lean towards a Sig P226 or P229. I plan on getting one of each in .40 as my fiancee has hijacked and claimed my P228. I have shot the P220, P226, P228 and P229 and enjoy everyone immensely. I have a marked preference for the Sig DA/SA triggers.
I tend to be a little more accurate with the Sigs than the XDs and I think they look a little sharper depending on exact model, although the XD(M) bi-tone is pretty darn good looking (see Dustin's picture of his in another thread). I do slightly prefer my XD45 to the P220.
For SHTF, bug-out, survivalist, here comes the hurricane or earthquake sidearm my XD is the first thing I will grab. Even the factory says they can be cleaned by soaking in Simple Green, rinse, lube with motor oil and assemble. Like the Glocks, they will take a lot of abuse and neglect in adverse conditions and keep working.
I will say my normal spiel about buying a handgun:
IMO it is a very personal decision depending on where, how you will carry and use it, how it fits your hand, how naturally the sights align for you, how well the controls (mag release, slide stop, etc) fit your hand, what calibers you are comfortable with and shoot well, what calibers you can afford to practice with, your budget in general, mag capacity you want, availability of accessories you desire, etc.
In other words, if you pick up a $150 Hi Point and can put 10 rounds through bullseye at 7 yards and with the $1000 1911 you are lucky to hit the broad side of a barn from the inside, go with the Hi Point, at least for now. You are the one who has to carry it, practice with it, maintain it and it is your and your loved ones butts it may keep alive one day. What matters more than anything is that it is a good fit for you and you can shoot it well.