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Springfield Armory Echelon Alpha Review: A More Simple Echelon
The original Echelon and subsequent compensated models have earned solid reputations for their ergonomics, modularity, optics system, and overall shootability. The new Alpha keeps those core characteristics intact while trimming some of the extras that not everyone necessarily needs or even wants.
Still looks like the Echelon you’re used to seeing, right?
Instead of trying to reinvent the gun or drastically change the formula, Springfield basically took what already worked, simplified a few things, and brought the overall price down a bit. This doesn’t feel like a completely different pistol, as it still shoots and handles like an Echelon. It’s simply a budget-friendly version of the platform.
In The Box
Everything you “need”, but not much else.
Even the box that the Echelon Alpha comes in is a more basic version that the standard. Once you open the rather plain white box, you’ll find a set of optic pins, optic screws, and a single stainless steel 15-round magazine.
Thankfully, I can confirm that the other Echelon magazines, including the extended magazines work with the Alpha as well.
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Springfield Echelon 4.0C 9mm 18 Round Extended Magazine
32 reviews
Original price was: $44.99.$34.99Current price is: $34.99.
What you won’t find in the box like you would with other Echelon models are any interchangeable backstraps, spare magazines, or the typical included soft case.
I highly suggest you pick up an extended magazine or two for the range.
Main Features
Even though the Alpha is positioned as a more affordable version of the Echelon, Springfield didn’t really remove the features that matter most.
The biggest carryover is still the Central Operating Group (COG) system. The serialized chassis setup allows you to swap grip modules with ease, which is a major part of what made the original pistol appealing in the first place.
The Variable Interface System (VIS) optics system also remains. Springfield’s mounting setup is still one of the cleaner factory optics solutions on the market because it avoids a lot of the issues that come with optic plates. With the included self-locking pins, you can mount over 30 popular optics directly to the slide.
Be careful not to lose those pins!
The trigger also feels familiar if you’ve spent time with the standard Echelon…and that’s because it’s the same. It features a nice crisp break, a quick reset, and the flat face allows you to keep your finger pad placement steady. It’s not a competition trigger by any means, but it works well for defensive shooting and range use.
Differences Between the Alpha and Standard Echelon
Aside from the reduced accessory package, all of the main differences reside in the slide design.
The Alpha has a much cleaner and more basic slide profile compared to the original Echelon. You’ll notice that there is no longer a trench cut in the front of the slide, however, the serrations actually seem more aggressive and deep on the Alpha’s slide. It’s extremely easy to rack and press check.
Small but noticeable differences.
Another change can be found on top of the slide, with the removal of the front tritium sight. The Alpha offers a basic white dot front sight while the “U-Notch” rear sights remain the same.
The white dot sight still gets the job done.
By removing the additional accessories and changing these smaller features, Springfield is able to cut the cost of entry into the Echelon platform.
The important part is that it still feels like an Echelon when you actually shoot it.
Range Report
The Echelon Alpha is a blast to shoot…pun intended.
Just like with my other Echelons, I found the Alpha to be a very comfortable and flat-shooting pistol. All of my shooting was done between 7 and 30 yards, and I had no issues ringing any of the steel downrange without an optic. Although I prefer the tritium sights found on other Echelon models, the white dot on the Alpha works perfectly fine and was perfectly centered out of the box.
The makings of a great range day.
Since I haven’t had it very long, I’ve only managed to put 200 rounds through it, but as expected, out of those 200, I had zero malfunctions. I shot 124-grain Blazer Brass, and then a few different defensive loads from Hornady, and the Alpha happily sent them all downrange without a hiccup.
I also made sure to run all of the various factory Echelon magazines and can confirm you’re good to go with any of them. Since it only comes with one magazine, you’ll definitely want to grab a few more!
Springfield Echelon 4.0C 9mm 18 Round Extended Magazine (3 Pack)
32 reviews
Original price was: $134.99.$99.99Current price is: $99.99.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Most affordable Echelon offering
- Reliable and accurate
- Superior ergonomics and modularity
- Ambidextrous controls
- Great optics mounting system
Cons:
- Only comes with one magazine
- Lack of “night sights”
Final Thoughts
I would have liked to see the Echelon Alpha come in even a little bit more affordable given the reduction in accessories and features, but the goal Springfield has of lowering the entry point to the platform is commendable. The Echelon Alpha focuses on keeping the core strengths of the platform intact while simplifying some of the cosmetic and packaging details.
Which would you choose?
That’s probably going to appeal to a lot of shooters.
Some people just want a reliable, optics-ready handgun that shoots well and feels comfortable in the hand, and there is nothing wrong with that. Me? I’d likely still opt for the standard model with the extra magazines and night sights, but I don’t think you can really “go wrong” with any of them.
If you’re looking to get into the Echelon platform and want to keep the budget tighter, this is a great option. Plus, then you’ll have some extra money to spend on what’s most important: magazines, ammo, and training!
