How easy is it to install?
How well does it shoot?
These are two of the questions the author sets out to answer.
While the Echelon pistol is an amazing handgun right out of the box, the Sharp Bros. grip module reviewed here offers a great way of customizing the pistol further for your needs. Image: Sharp Bros.
The grip module was provided by the company for review.
Ihave been running the Echelon 4.5F semi-automatic pistol hard for more than a year now.
[For additional information on the pistol, read Massad AyoobsSpringfield Armory Echelon 4.5F review.]
The author tested the SBGM16 version of the aluminum grip module. It features cherry wood grip panels and is shown with optional magazine funnel. Image: Author
I had to try it out, so I put in an order for one.
This, in turn, opened the door for all sorts of grip modules and third-party options.
That option is the Sharps Bros.
The aluminum grip module added some heft to the Echelon 4.5F Comp, making its minimal recoil even easier to control. Image: Author
Grip Module for the Echelon.
This sleek and aggressively designed grip module with separate grip panels is machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum.
It is currently offered in three variations from Sharps Bros.
The Echelon’s serialized Central Operating Group houses the entire fire control assembly of the pistol. Image: Author
It is this last one that is available on the Springfield Armory Store, and the one I ordered.
Pricing is $325.95.
Weighing in at 8 oz.
With the Sharp Bros. grip module, this Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp looks like a custom race gun. Image: Author
But this is not a negative in my opinion.
To the contrary, it would make the pistols minimal recoil even easier to control.
To ensure fast and effective reloads, Sharps Bros. also offers an optional 7075-T6 aluminum flared magazine funnel.
The Sharps Bros. grip module features an optional flared magwell that can help speed your Springfield Echelon reloads. Image: Author
As this was also available on the Springfield Armory Store, I ordered this along with the grip module.
Pricing is $49.95.
Without the funnel, the grip module can seat the 4.0Cs shorter 15-round magazine flush.
The Sharps Bros. grip module kit is easy to install on the Echelon thanks to the modularity designed into the gun by Springfield Armory. Image: Author
After fully ensuring the pistol is clear and safe, lock the slide to the rear.
The module is now disassembled.
Now its time to plant the Echelon parts in the Sharps Bros. module.
Once installed, the Sharps Bros. grip module looks like a natural part of the Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp. Image: Author
Check the ambidextrous mag release by pressing the button on both sides, checking for proper release.
Now, its time to reinsert the Central Operating Group.
Insert the front of the module into the recessed grooves and press downward on the rear of the chassis.
The Sharps Bros. module features a steeper grip angle than that of the standard Echelon polymer frame, and also has unique texturing on the front- and backstrap areas. Image: Author
The takedown lever holes should now be aligned with the frame.
Now, press it into place.
Next, rotate the takedown lever down and release the slide forward.
The author stated the grip module gave the Echelon more heft while the palm swell fit his hand perfectly. Image: Author
The entire process shouldnt take more than five minutes.
To round out the package, I installed a Streamlight TLR-1 HL.
I also found that the gun with the new grip module still fit my QVO Tactical holster perfectly.
The author encountered no malfunctions with the grip module installed on the Springfield Armory Echelon. Image: Author
I was really looking forward to comparing the new experience with using the OEM module.
My first impression was how substantial the gun felt in hand.
Additionally, the palm swell design and the textured-and-raised thumb ledges fit my hand perfectly.
Thanks to the magazine funnel, inserting magazines was smooth and fast.
Additionally, the magazine seated flawlessly.
I experienced zero issues or malfunctions throughout the session.
Conclusion
Shooting is a very personal experience.
In brief, the Sharps Bros.
Grip Module is an enhancement to an already excellent shooting experience with the Echelon.
Grip Module is a great option for this.
For my money, its a great way to dress up your Echelon pistol.
