From Duty to Concealment: The Evolution of Springfield’s Echelon Series
You're sure to hear from internet pundits that the Springfield Armory Echelon Compact 4.0 is just another incremental upgrade. However, I see this expansion of the lineup as a significant step forward, further solidifying its foundation.
Since its release in late 2023, the Echelon has sold exceptionally well, gaining a substantial following. Even some long-time Springfield detractors have, albeit quietly, admitted that the Echelon, with its new V.I.S. optics mounting system, is quite impressive. In the industry, the Echelon was distinguished as the Guns & Ammo 2023 Handgun of the Year, and the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers, in partnership with the Professional Outdoor Media Association, awarded it the best new Handgun Award. Additionally, the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) gave the Echelon its highest "gold" ranking in the “Member Tested and Recommended” (MTR) program.
The Echelon's design is centered around modularity, allowing users to adapt the firearm to various mission requirements. This is achieved not only by offering different factory versions but also by enabling the aftermarket industry to innovate with the design.
In my opinion, the new Compact 4.0 Echelon is poised to become one of the most popular models. Consider the analogy with Glock: the Glock 17 serves as a full-sized duty weapon, whereas the Glock 19 acts as a versatile, concealable option. After carrying a full-size Echelon for the past year, the compact version with its 4-inch barrel is a welcome change for concealment.
With access to multiple pre-release Compact Echelons alongside my full-sized ones, I've been experimenting with modularity. The Echelon's Central Operating Group (COG) allows components to interchange seamlessly. Unlike the XD and XDM series where parts like locking blocks and takedown levers weren't interchangeable, the Echelon's design permits swapping between shorter and longer frames and slides effortlessly. I've even combined a compact slide with a compensator on a full-sized frame, blending functionality with a unique aesthetic.
Springfield Armory seems to be taking cues from Sig Sauer by potentially selling individual components like slides or COG units, a strategy they've started with other products. The consensus among those "in the know" is that Springfield might stick to one COG size for all variants from full-sized to sub-compact, simplifying the ecosystem for both users and aftermarket developers.
One of my frustrations has been with the "OSP" versions of the XDS and Hellcat, which unnecessarily use a unique dovetail cut, differing from the standard used for nearly 25 years on Springfield's polymer pistols. Fortunately, the Echelon reverts to this standard, reducing customer confusion.
Springfield has actively encouraged aftermarket innovation, partnering with companies like Safariland and Icarus Precision, leading to unique aluminum frames by Icarus Precision and Sharps Bros that significantly alter the pistol's appearance and feel. This collaboration, especially with Safariland, ensures that from day one, there are duty-rated holster options available for the Echelon, which was not the case for the XD and XDM.
Looking ahead, expect a Subcompact version of the Echelon in the future, along with a proliferation of aftermarket slides and barrels, enabling users to customize their Echelon to their heart's content.
