As a licensed Type 1 FFL dealer and certified gunsmith, I tend to favour the Springfield product. But both are good - neither one is particularly fantastic out of the box, but they both clean up quite nicely.
S&W does not sell the XD. Springfield Armory does.
Yes per conversation with Springfield Inc. it is safe to use +p or +p+ FACTORY ammunition, but it can accelerate wear on the weapon at a higher rate.
Taurus made several 9mm handguns. Which model did you have in mind?
Springfield 1911 models are forged and milled in Brazil. Custom shop models are assembled in usa. The XDM 9mm is made in croatia. I don't believe any of the others are made here either!
No
No
No
Maybe a Taurus....
100-400 USD or so
US910010
around $30-40
300-500