Hi Tater, I also have an XD but in 45acp and there is no reason why you can't carry it with 1 in the chamber. The grip safety is an added benefit.
Mine functions with a full mag +1.
Reduce the the chances for an accidental discharge by racking the slide when you are not under stress like before you leave the house when you know your finger is out of the trigger guard.
Hope you like your XD as much as I do mine.
