Typically, a new firearm gradually gains popularity as it enters the public and feedback trickles in. That was not the case with the Springfield Echelon. Its popularity soared almost immediately, with swift and positive feedback. Serious shooters were impressed, and Springfield had produced yet another exceptional handgun. Now Springfield is offering an Echelon Aimpoint COA version.
Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F COA – With Aimpoint A-CUT
Introducing Springfield Armory Aimpoint COA. Select firearms arrive factory-milled with the A-CUT interface and paired with the class-leading Aimpoint COA closed-emitter red dot sight. A crisp 3.5 MOA dot and over five years of battery life are packed into a sleek, lightweight package built for military, law enforcement, concealed carry, and sport shooters alike.
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Integrates Directly Into Slide
The A-CUT integrates directly into the Echelon slide via a full-length dovetail secured by a front hook and rear wedge. The wedge-locking mechanism transfers lateral forces into the dovetail, reducing load on screws and mounting interfaces, delivering high durability and reliable zero retention under demanding conditions. The ultra-low mount enables co-witnessing with iron sights for instinctive target acquisition.
Optimized for Carry
Built for concealed carry, the COA’s ultra-compact, lightweight design ensures effortless draw and a low-profile fit on handguns. Its fully enclosed optical channel and emitter resist rain, snow, dust, and submersion to 25 meters — while a quick-access battery compartment keeps you ready without having to remove the sight.
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Springfield was kind enough to send a test gun for a test drive. The model they sent was the Echelon 4.5F, factory-equipped with the Aimpoint A-CUT and COA red dot sight. The optic mounts directly to the slide for greater durability and consistent zero retention. It was ready to use right out of the box. At this moment, the Echelon COA is available in three versions. The 4.5 COA, the 4.0 FC, and a 4.0C.
Superior Ergonomics
I may sound like a broken record, but the Echelon is engineered with superior ergonomics and built to withstand the harshest conditions. On the range, the Echelon 4.5F is a solid striker-fired duty pistol. With a host of patent-pending features, this modular pistol is designed around a robust stainless-steel chassis housed in a full-size frame, offering a 17-round flush capacity and 20 rounds with the extended magazine.
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Having tested each Echelon model that has rolled off the line, this model felt like an old friend. Aimpoint’s COA optic, with its large window and clear glass, delivered impressive performance and fast shooting. From close-quarter contact drills to engaging targets at 25 yards, the Echelon shone.
Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F COA
The Echelon 4.5F brings together the best of two worlds. An exceptional handgun and a duty-proven optic. Springfield is launching the COA-friendly design with the Echelon, and shortly, the COA line will include 1911 and 1911 DS Prodigy models.
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Echelon 4.5F Specs
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Color | Black |
| Barrel | 4.5″ Hammer Forged Steel, Melonite Finish, 1:10 |
| Slide | Billet Machined, Melonite Finish, Aimpoint A-CUT |
| Frame | Black Polymer, Medium Grip Module |
| Sights | Tritium / Luminescent Front, Black Serrated Rear, Aimpoint COA Red Dot |
| Recoil System | Captive |
| Grip Width | 1.2″ |
| Magazines  | (1) 17-Round, (1) 20-Round  |
| Weight | 24.6 oz w/ Flush Mag, 25.3 oz w/ Extended Mag |
| Length | 8″ |
| Height | 5.5″ w/ Flush Mag, 6.5″ w/ Extended Mag |
| MSRP | $1,119 |
For more information, visit Springfield Armory.
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