Springfield Armory has expanded its popular Echelon lineup, introducing the Echelon 4.0C 9mm. This latest release is all about bringing the performance of the original full-size Echelon 4.5F in a more compact and versatile EDC-ready package.
Springfield Echelon 4.0C Specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Overall Length: 7.25 inches
- Width: 1.2 inches
- Barrel: 4″ hammer-forged steel; 4.28” in a threaded version (1/2×28)
- Sights: Available in U-Dot rear with tritium or Tritium 3-dot night sights
- Capacity: Comes with one 15-round flush-fit mag and one 18-round extended magazine (10-round options available where required)
- Weight: 24 oz unloaded with flush-fit mag; 33.8 oz fully loaded
- Optics Mounting: Variable Interface System (VIS) for red dot compatibility with 30+ optics
- Grip: Interchangeable grip modules and backstraps for tailored fit
- Modularity: Serialized Central Operating Group fire control unit
- MSRP: $679
Why we like Echelon 4C:
- Modularity: Like the full-size Echelon, the 4.0C features a serialized chassis-style COG system that allows users to put it into various frame sizes and colors.
- Optics-Friendly: The VIS system allows you to use multiple optic footprints and eliminates the need for adapter plates.
- Outstanding Ergonomics: The new Springfield Echelon 9mm comes with 3 interchangeable backstraps, each having integrated armorer tools + the 3 grip sizes (originally ships with a small-size frame; medium and large sold separately).
- Grippy: The grip features a custom pressure-activated grip texture that feels smooth until you apply pressure to engage aggressive texture.
- Tactile Controls: Fully ambidextrous controls make the Echelon Compact easy to handle in various shooting scenarios.
- Concealed Carry-Friendly: Despite being classified as compact, the gun strikes a perfect balance—not too big, not too small. Its slim width and moderate weight make it a strong option for those seeking more capacity and better shootability than micro-compacts like the Hellcat.
- Sights: The U-Dot system and 3-Dot Tritium night sights are clear and effective in various conditions.
- Close-Contact Firing: Thanks to the unique recoil spring guide rod design, the Echelon 4.0 Compact doesn’t experience out-of-battery malfunction when firing at press contact.
Downsides of Echelon 4:
- Expensive Magazines: Replacement magazines are specific to the Echelon line and may be pricier than generic options, starting at $35.
- Limited Holster Options: Being a newer model, the Echelon 4.0C doesn’t yet have a wide range of holsters available. But that’s understandable.
How Does Echelon Compact Compare?
- Echelon 4.0C vs Echelon 4.5F:
While the original Echelon offers a longer 4.5-inch barrel and a larger grip housing 17-round flush mags, the 4.0C trims down for better concealability while maintaining consistent accuracy and modular design.
- Echelon 4.0C vs Glock 19:
The Echelon Compact is nearly identical in size to the Glock 19 but offers more versatility with its modular grip system and a better optics-mounting experience. That said, Glock has an edge in aftermarket support, including holsters and accessories.
- Echelon 4.0C vs Hellcat Pro:
The Echelon 4.0C offers higher capacity and a slight ergonomic edge over the Hellcat Pro, though the latter remains a more compact pistol for those prioritizing deep concealment.
User Experience
- Moderate recoil and solid grip texture make it easy to control, even during rapid fire.
- The trigger is crisp but some may find it a little stiff.
- Magazines easily lock into place, even when fully loaded.
- Ambidextrous mag release allows quick reloads with either thumb or trigger finger.
- Reliable with various types of ammunition.
- Takedown lever and safety registry points (finger pads) further enhance usability and overall comfort.
EDC Potential
The Springfield Echelon 4.0C ticks the right boxes for concealed carry. Its compact size makes it easy to hide under a jacket or untucked shirt, while still offering a comfortable and ergonomic shooting experience. With both flush-fit and extended magazines, you can choose between a more discreet carry or increased capacity. Additionally, its design boasts a feature that prevents the gun from going out of battery when pressed against a target, enhancing its reliability as a self-defense weapon.
Final Thoughts
The Echelon 4.0C is Springfield’s response to the dominance of compact pistols in the carry market, bringing fresh innovations to compete with time-tested favorites like the Glock G19, Sig P320 or P365, Hellcat Pro, S&W M&P 2.0, and others. If you’re after a compact 9mm pistol, the Echelon 4.0C should be on your shortlist.
2 Responses
Does the compact Echelon take the same magazines as the full size ?
Technically, full size Echelon uses 4.5F mags and compact Echelon uses 4.0C mags. Still, you can use 4.5F mags in the Echelon compact but keep in mind that if you reload from slide lock and insert the mag too far, this can cause the slide to stay locked to the rear