Stop Sleeping on the Echelon

Published on March 8, 2026
Duration: 11:16

This review of the Springfield Armory Echelon, presented by Reno May, highlights its potential as a strong contender in the handgun market. May provides extensive live-fire testing, discussing ergonomics, trigger performance, and shooting dynamics of both full-size and compact models. He also addresses California-specific compliance issues and offers a practical modification for magazine compatibility.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory Echelon is a strong contender with features like true ambidextrous controls and a factory optics-cut slide. While California models have a magazine disconnect, a Sig P320 magazine can be modified to work with the Echelon, offering a practical solution for magazine compatibility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Live Fire Introduction
  2. 00:31Springfield Echelon Overview
  3. 01:25Sponsor Acknowledgement
  4. 01:59Product Source & Loaners
  5. 02:11Echelon as a Contender
  6. 02:31Full-Size Echelon Preference
  7. 03:00Ambidextrous Controls & Optics
  8. 03:43California Compliance Issues
  9. 04:39Ergonomics & Grip
  10. 05:54Trigger Performance
  11. 07:00Shooting Dynamics
  12. 07:27Live Fire Demonstration
  13. 09:06Magazine Compatibility & Hacks
  14. 09:46Final Thoughts & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Springfield Armory Echelon?

The Springfield Echelon boasts true ambidextrous slide stop/release and magazine release, a factory-cut slide for direct optics mounting, and interchangeable backstraps for customizable ergonomics. It's also available in California-compliant versions with a magazine disconnect.

How does the Springfield Echelon's trigger perform?

The Echelon's trigger is described as 'just okay' in feel but excels with very light take-up, a clean break, and a short reset. The factory pull weight is approximately 5 pounds, which is considered good for a striker-fired duty pistol.

Can Sig P320 magazines be used in the Springfield Echelon?

Yes, with a modification. A Sig P320 magazine can be made compatible with the Springfield Echelon by carefully cutting a small notch into the front of the magazine to allow it to lock in place.

What are the main criticisms of California-compliant handguns like the Echelon?

California's requirements, such as the magazine disconnect and loaded chamber indicator, are criticized. The magazine disconnect, in particular, prevents magazines from dropping freely, hindering quick reloads.

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