But what does a pint-size pistol like the Hellcat have to do with full-size service sidearms?
The full-size Echelon was the second.
It doesnt hurt that they are generally more affordable than all-metal guns, either.
The Echelon Threaded 9mm takes a proven platform and adds the ability to easily mount the muzzle device of the shooter’s choice. Image: Doug Naes
[Be sure to also read Massad AyoobsSpringfield Echelon review.]
Mark my words: The Echelon has effectively freed us from optic-mounting plates.
Do plate systems work?
The Echelon Threaded model is a sound platform for the optic, weaponlight and suppressor of your choice. Rugged Suppressors Obsidian shown. Image: Doug Naes
The Echelons innovative system offers just that.
[Dont miss Justin Opinions explanation of theSpringfield Echelon optic footprint.]
In addition to solving the optic-mounting equation, the Echelon easily keeps pace in terms of capacity.
Packing 17 rounds of 9mm has long been considered the standard payload for full-size, double-stack pistols.
Being that this part is the firearm, Springfield can offer three interchangeable grips modules.
Now, the pistol takes on another growing trend.
The Echelon’s serialized Central Operating Group chassis makes swapping out grip modules extremely easy. Image: Doug Naes
Enter the Echelon Threaded, a pistol prepared to offer more bite with less bark.
The added length extends beyond the slide and provides room for 1/228-pitch threading.
A knurled thread protector is also included.
The fully ambidextrous Echelon features an ambi slide lock lever and ambi magazine release. Image: Doug Naes
I have average-size hands, so the standard medium-size grip module works perfectly for me.
When it came to backstrap selection, I tested all three options.
I found that the largest backstrap provided the most engagement with my natural firing grip.
The pistol’s Variable Interface System allows for the direct mounting of more than 30 popular optics. The author selected the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. Image: Doug Naes
With the grip frame sized and sorted, it was time to add an optic.
I opted to use a Leupold DeltaPoint Pro with a 2.5 MOA red-dot reticle.
Two reasons I like Leupolds DPP: First, its a proven design.
The author ran the Echelon Threaded at the range with a Silencer Central Banish 45 suppressor. Both it and the pistol performed flawlessly.
Normally, I favor low-profile optics to keep the entire firearm package as trim as possible.
Finally, it wouldnt be much of a test if I didnt include a suppressor.
I opted to use Silencer Centrals Banish 45, a modular .45-caliber can.
The author ran three different 9mm loads through the pistol for accuracy testing as well as function.
I also opted to use the long 8.6, 11 oz.
configuration for maximum sound suppression.
At the Range
Ready for the range, I wanted to thoroughly test the Echelon Threaded.
The grip module comes with three interchangeable backstraps for customizing the grip to fit perfectly. Image: Doug Naes
That meant everything from running defensive drills to bench-rested accuracy.
I also wanted to know how performance would change when a suppressor was added.
But before I could begin, I fired a few rounds to zero the Leupold DPP.
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro was a good match for the Echelon and was easy to install. Image: Doug Naes
As expected, the Echelon is a beast for defensive work.
Too, the gun runs fast.
The Echelon Threaded is not.
full-metal jacket (FMJ); and Winchester Defend 147-gr.
jacketed hollow point (JHP).
The testing standard called for three, five-shot groups from each, fired from a rest at 15 yards.
In fact, the average of all the groups combined was right at 1.5.
Full results are tabulated nearby; note that less than two-tenths of an inch separated the individual averages.
During the testing, I really came to appreciate the Echelons trigger.
One of the benefits of a striker-fired gun is the consistency of the trigger pull.
The Echelon Threaded was that, and also very smooth, with no detectable grit or hang-ups.
With the clean travel it felt even lighter and was definitely an aid to accurate shooting.
Three measures I was really watching for were impact shift, velocity changes and effects on reliability.
The first two characteristics are related, but not necessarily the same.
Changes in velocity can affect the point of impact.
Most commonly, we see vertical stringing when velocities increase or decrease.
I should not have worried.
The groups match up nearly perfectly.
Only my numbering allowed me to discern suppressed and unsuppressed shots.
At 15 yards, there was no noticeable shift.
Data from the chronograph further confirmed my findings.
The average velocity for 10 rounds with the Banish 45 attached was 1,059 fps, only a 6-fps increase.
For reliability testing, it was back to the can of mixed ammo.
Moreso for a tilt-barrel design.
Thats why pistons have become so prevalent on pistol-caliber suppressors.
The spring-loaded adaptors help mitigate the adverse effects of muzzle-mounted devices.
Regardless of the ammunition used, the Echelon Threaded / Banish 45 combo worked flawlessly.
Functionality was 100 percent, with energetic ejection and no failures to feed.
So, how did it sound?
Silencer Central advertises 36 decibels of sound reduction when firing 9mm ammunition through the Banish 45.
While I cant confirm the companys measurements, I can attest that the report was reduced to hearing-safe levels.
If you havent invested in an Echelon yet, the Threaded model is your do-everything option.
Alternatively, threaded barrels for standard Echelons are available in Springfield Armorys online store.
Theres no excuse not to enjoy a little peace and quiet.
