To be transparent, I’m a huge fan of the Springfield Echelon pistol. For the past two years, I’ve used it extensively in training. And every time I shoot it, I’m more impressed.
My current one features a Trijicon RMR, Springfield threaded barrel, and a Herrington Arms compensator. It feels great, shoots flat with the compensator, and the Variable Interface System (VIS) is one of the best optic mounting solutions on the market. So, yes, I am a fan. That’s why I was just as excited when Springfield released a new Echelon model, the 4.0FC.
SPECS
The new Springfield Armory Echelon 4.0FC reflects the recent trend of combining full-size frames with compact slides, which offers notable advantages. It enables faster draw times from holsters, easier maneuvering in tight spaces, and, for some, improved balance. However, at its core, the 4.0FC remains an Echelon with the same removable “Ventral Operating Group” (the serialized part of the pistol) that can be swapped.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): Echelon 4.0FC
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 17-rd
- Sights: Tritium / Luminescent Front, Tactical Rack U-Dot™ Rear
- Optic Cut: Yes, VIS System
- Magazines: (1) 17-round flush magazine & (1) 20-round extended magazine.
- Barrel Length: 4″
- Overall Length: 7.25”
- Width at Grip: 1.2”
- Height: 5.5” with Flush, 6.5” with extended magazine.
- Weight: 24 oz. with flush, 25 oz. with extended magazine.
- Price: $710 MSRP
FEATURES
The Echelon 4.0FC is engineered to deliver full-size performance in a smaller, quicker-to-handle design. Built with a 4-inch barrel and a billet-machined compact slide, it maintains a full-length grip module that improves recoil control while keeping duty-grade capacity.
At the core of the platform is Springfield’s Central Operating Group, a serialized chassis that allows for modular flexibility. That means you can easily replace the full-size grip module with a compact one, making this handgun more suitable for concealed carry.
The Variable Interface System boosts versatility by enabling direct-mount compatibility with a wide range of top optics without additional plates. Fully ambidextrous controls make it easy for any shooter to operate, while tritium/luminescent U-Dot sights allow quick visual target acquisition in various lighting conditions. The result is a well-balanced, all-around pistol that combines control, capacity, and agility for duty, defense, and everyday carry.
ZOOMING OUT
As I mentioned, I’m a fan of the Echelon platform, and I recommend people check it out. The new 4.0FC is a natural extension of the platform, something that users were already doing independently. Now, it can be selected as a factory option. The Echelon 4.0FC will be hitting dealers’ shelves soon.
