Stop Sleeping on the Echelon

Published on March 8, 2026
Duration: 11:16

This video provides an expert review of the Springfield Armory Echelon by Reno May, covering its features, shooting dynamics, and California compliance issues. May highlights the pistol's ambidextrous controls, optics-ready slide, and decent trigger, while noting the problematic magazine disconnect required in California. He also demonstrates a modification for Sig P320 magazines to work with the Echelon.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory Echelon offers excellent features like a direct-mount optics cut and true ambidextrous controls. While the full-size model handles recoil well, the compact can feel 'poppy'. California models include a magazine disconnect, preventing free magazine drops, but Sig P320 magazines can be modified for 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 ambidextrous features of the Springfield Armory Echelon?

The Springfield Armory Echelon boasts a true ambidextrous magazine release and an ambidextrous slide stop/release, allowing for easy operation by both right-handed and left-handed shooters without needing to switch grip or hands.

How does the Springfield Echelon handle recoil?

The full-size Springfield Armory Echelon is noted for its excellent recoil management, featuring vertically tracking recoil that contributes to a comfortable shooting experience. The compact version, however, can feel 'poppy'.

Can Sig P320 magazines be used in the Springfield Echelon?

Yes, Sig P320 magazines can be made compatible with the Springfield Echelon by carefully cutting a small notch into the front of the magazine, allowing it to properly engage with the Echelon's magazine release mechanism.

What are the implications of California compliance for the Echelon's magazine release?

In California, the Echelon is equipped with a magazine disconnect, a feature that prevents the magazine from dropping freely when the release is pressed. This is a legal requirement in the state.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Reno May

View all →