Last December, Springfield Armory sent me the Echelon 4.0C. In my article, “Echelon 4.0C: A First Look at Springfield Armory’s New Carry Pistol,” I shared what I liked about it right out of the box. I even asked my son, Colton, a former competitive shooter, for his first impression. Then, in “Springfield Armory’s Echelon 4.0C: It’s a Keeper!” I put it to the test on the range. Yes, I was impressed, and recently I’ve heard others mention how much they like the Echelon (including pro-shooter Julie Golob).
One day, while scrolling through social media, I noticed my friend, Andrew Blubaugh, who has helped me with previous articles (see “Home Invasion Dry-Fire Practice“) posted that he’s spending time on the range with the Echelon. I reached out to him to find out how he determines firearms he likes and what he looks for when shopping for a new pistol.
Do your research before you go to a gun store. If you are a new shooter, take a class, learn the fundamentals of marksmanship (FOM) and shoot different guns. Once you understand the FOM and have spent time shooting different guns, it’s easier to shop.
During your research, set a budget, but remember, you get what you pay for.
Pick three different guns you really want to try out and use those to compare. Begin with those three, or else you will get overwhelmed by cool guns, guns on sale or cheap firearms.
When you understand grip, you will appreciate what REALLY feels good in your hand. I like ergonomic grips that allow plenty of grip contact, like Springfield Armory’s Echelon. With three backstraps available, it’s easy to customize the grip to your needs.
Next, make sure you can operate all controls. Ensure the trigger isn’t too heavy (or too light). Can you lock the slide back with ease? Release the slide lock lever with no issue? Are you able to reach the magazine release with minimal grip manipulation and easily release the magazine?
The trigger is a very personal preference. I like having a little take-up or slack. I want a distinct pressure wall that breaks no less than 4.5 pounds and no more than 5.5 pounds. I don’t want a lot of overtravel (the distance the trigger moves following the break). And I prefer a flat trigger. The weight and slack of the trigger for me strictly has to do with a defensive weapon. I don’t want anything too light or too heavy. What works for me has to do with the comfort level I have built over decades of shooting. My trigger finger knows the path.
Once I purchase a gun, I must train with it at a higher frequency than usual. This means daily dry practice, 15-20 minutes a day. I also shoot several times a month, several hundred rounds on each session. My goal is to become comfortable drawing, shooting, reloading and unloading. I want to build confidence in the system until the new gun doesn’t feel new to me anymore.
Springfield Armory’s Echelon is available in many different variations. Currently, there are two barrel lengths: 4 and 4.5 inches. Here are some of the variations available:
In Andrew’s social media post, he wrote, “I’ve been working with the Springfield Armory Echelon. So many great things about this, but not having to use a plate to mount the optic is the highlight for me.”
What Andrew referred to is the patent-pending, optic-mounting system located under the Echelon’s slide cover plate. Users can mount more than 30 optics directly to the slide. There is no need for adapter plates.
Another aspect of the Echelon Andrew mentioned is its great grip texture. He said, “It’s aggressive enough to aid in grip, but does not destroy clothing like other textures.”
As I mentioned at the beginning, Julie Golob also sang the praises of the Echelon, specifically the 40C Comp. Here is her video highlighting its features:
If you’re shopping for a new pistol, I highly recommend perusing Springfield Armory’s website and while you’re there, check out the Echelon and all its variations.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
