Is the New Springfield Echelon Good?

Published on December 30, 2023
Duration: 49:02

The Springfield Echelon is a new 9mm striker-fired pistol designed to compete with Glock, featuring a modern design with aggressive stippling and a unique Variable Interface System (VIS) for direct optic mounting. While it offers good accuracy and a modular fire control group, it suffers from significant holster compatibility issues and a trigger with a spongy reset that can cause fatigue during high-volume shooting. The pistol experienced minor malfunctions, including occasional magazine drops and a failure to feed, suggesting its long-term durability is still unproven.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Echelon features a Variable Interface System (VIS) for direct optic mounting, eliminating plates and lowering height over bore. However, it suffers from significant holster incompatibility with Glock holsters and has a spongy trigger reset that can cause fatigue.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Design Philosophy
  2. 01:461000-Round Test Plan
  3. 03:24Holster Compatibility Issues
  4. 07:01VIS Optic Mounting System
  5. 09:46Shooting Performance & Trigger
  6. 34:03Malfunctions & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the Springfield Echelon's Variable Interface System (VIS)?

The VIS allows for direct mounting of over 30 different red dot optics without needing adapter plates. This system uses interchangeable pins to secure optics directly to the slide, reducing height over bore and increasing mounting security compared to traditional plate systems.

Does the Springfield Echelon fit standard Glock holsters?

No, the Springfield Echelon does not fit standard Glock holsters. Despite a similar form factor, its slightly wider slide and longer trigger guard prevent compatibility, requiring specialized or modified holsters.

How is the trigger performance of the Springfield Echelon?

The Echelon's trigger has a defined wall but features a spongy and sluggish reset. This can lead to trigger fatigue during high-volume shooting and requires conscious effort to manage for accurate follow-up shots.

What issues were encountered during the 1000-round test of the Springfield Echelon?

During the test, the Echelon experienced occasional magazine drops, possibly due to the ambidextrous magazine release, and one failure to feed with a hollow point round. Long-term durability remains unproven.

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