Springfield Armory Releases California-Compliant Echelon Pistols

GENESEO, ILL. (10/21/25) – Springfield Armory is proud to announce the release of four California-Compliant Echelon pistols, bringing this modular and highly adaptable 9mm handgun—engineered with superior ergonomics and built to withstand the harshest conditions—to the state for the first time.

The four models available include the 4.5F (a full-size model with a 4.5” barrel), the 4.5F Comp (the same model, but with an integral compensator), the 4.0C (a compact model with a 4” barrel) and the 4.0C Comp (the compact model with an integral compensator). The result is a wide range of options for California consumers to own their own version of this unparalleled striker-fired design.

At the heart of the Echelon lies its patent-pending Central Operating Group. Employing cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, it’s an entirely self-contained and serialized stainless-steel chassis. The result is a system that is easily moved between available grip modules in seconds. The pistol comes with three interchangeable backstraps. The 4.5F models come standard with a medium-sized grip module, while the 4.0C variants come with a small. Differently sized and colored grip modules are also available. In addition, all controls of the pistol are fully ambidextrous.

Further adding to the Echelon’s adaptability is its truly innovative Variable Interface System, which employs patent-pending self-locking pins to complete the most versatile optics mounting system on the market. As the mounting screws are torqued to spec, the pins exert lateral pressure on the optic’s interior mounting surface to eliminate left/right movement. This ensures you maintain consistent and reliable point of aim/point of impact.

Lots of Optics Options

In addition, the pins can be positioned to fit the footprints of more than 30 of today’s most popular optics, allowing for an unparalleled direct-mount fit between the pistol’s slide and optic. Backing up the red dot optic of your choice is a rugged set of U-Dot sights, made up of a U-notch “Tactical Rack” rear and a tritium/luminescent front dot.

The ergonomics of the Echelons are also equally innovative. Thoroughly tested for ease of manipulation, the Echelon’s slide features four distinct engagement surfaces. A trench cut forward of the action gives shooters a natural index location for press checks and charging the firearm. The back of the slide is flared for positive purchase, while deep forward and rear serrations are carried through the corners for a firm grip from any angle.

All four of the new Echelons feature the California-required loaded chamber indicator, magazine disconnect, and 10-round magazine capacity for legality.

“The Echelon quickly set a new standard for modern, striker-fired duty pistols at its launch,” said Steve Kramer, Vice President of Marketing for Springfield Armory. “With these new 4.5F and 4.0C variants, California residents now have access to this unparalleled 9mm pistol.”

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