Springfield Armory has just dropped the new Echelon 4.5F Comp 9mm pistol, and it’s packed with features that make it as versatile as it is powerful. It’s integrally compensated, which means you’re looking at reduced felt recoil and faster follow-up shots without any extra bulk.
So, what’s the big deal about a compensator?
When you fire a round, gases escape from the muzzle, which usually causes the gun to kick back. A compensator, like the one on the Echelon, redirects those gases to reduce that recoil. This translates into quicker sight recovery, easier target re-acquisition, and, over time, less physical fatigue when you’re spending long hours at the range or in training.
The Echelon Comp is all about precision and control. The compensator is seamlessly integrated into the hammer-forged slide and barrel, using a single port on top to redirect gas and keep the muzzle flat. The front sight sits just behind the compensator, giving you a clean, uninterrupted sight picture. Whether you’re squeezing off single shots or emptying the mag, this setup keeps you on target.
Key Echelon Features
At the core of this pistol is Springfield Armory’s Central Operating Group, a self-contained, serialized system that can be swapped between different grip modules in seconds. This isn’t just a game-changer for modularity—it’s a way to fine-tune the gun to fit your needs perfectly.
Need optics? Springfield’s Variable Interface System has you covered. This patent-pending system lets you mount over 30 different red dot optics directly to the slide — no adapter plates needed. Simply adjust the self-locking pins to fit your optic, and you’re good to go with a low-profile, direct mount for a better sight picture and faster alignment.
According to Steve Kramer, Springfield Armory’s VP of Marketing, “The Echelon was designed to offer a fresh take on the duty-style 9mm pistol with a host of modular and innovative features. Now with the Echelon Comp, shooters have a new option that combines advanced performance with duty-grade durability.”
It comes with a 17-round flush-fit magazine and a 20-round extended magazine for those looking for more capacity. And for shooters in restricted areas, 15- and 10-round options are available, both coming with two magazines. All versions carry an MSRP of $749.
If you’re looking for a pistol that balances performance, control, and adaptability, the Echelon 4.5F Comp 9mm is worth a serious look. Whether you’re on the range or out in the field, this gun’s built to perform and ready to customize to your needs. Get out there and see what it can do!