California Compliant Echelon Line from Springfield Armory

California Compliant Echelon: Four Models, One Mission

Springfield Armory has just leveled up the options for gun owners behind the lines of regulation with the launch of its California Compliant Echelon series—four highly refined pistols designed to meet the strictest state compliance standards without compromising performance, ergonomics, or innovation. These new models bring the full weight of Springfield’s modular technology and patented features to a marketplace often starved for modern, duty-ready sidearms.

The California Compliant Echelon lineup includes the 4.5F, 4.5F Comp, 4.0C, and 4.0C Comp. Each model is chambered in 9mm and features a 10-round magazine capacity to satisfy California regulations, along with the required loaded chamber indicator and magazine disconnect safety. But make no mistake—these aren’t neutered versions of the real deal. They’re the real deal, California-ready.

Built around Springfield’s Central Operating Group (COG)—a serialized, self-contained stainless steel chassis—the Echelon platform allows for modular upgrades, grip size changes, and top-tier optic integration thanks to the Variable Interface System (VIS). Whether you’re carrying concealed or outfitting your nightstand setup, the California Compliant Echelon models offer four distinct flavors of top-tier striker-fired performance.

California Compliant Echelon 4.5F & 4.5F Comp: Duty-Grade Precision

Starting with the full-sized offerings, the California Compliant Echelon 4.5F and 4.5F Comp deliver everything expected from a modern duty pistol—robust build, easy optics mounting, ambidextrous controls, and clean trigger break—all wrapped in a combat-ready package.

The Echelon 4.5F is built with a 4.5″ hammer-forged barrel, Melonite-treated for durability and corrosion resistance. The slide is billet-machined, optics-ready, and cut to accept red dots directly via the VIS—no bulky adapter plates needed. The polymer frame is configured with a medium grip module for ergonomic control, and tritium/luminescent U-Dot sights make target acquisition a snap in any lighting condition. MSRP: $694.

For those craving even more control, the 4.5F Comp adds an integral compensator directly into the slide and barrel assembly, taming muzzle rise with surgical precision. That means faster follow-up shots without the complexity of threaded barrels or aftermarket comps. With a weight of 23.9 oz (flush mag), this pistol manages to balance full-size handling with reduced recoil impulse. MSRP: $765.

Both models ship with two 10-round magazines and retain Springfield’s signature ambidextrous controls, tool-less disassembly, and modularity from the COG design.

California Compliant Echelon 4.0C & 4.0C Comp: Concealed Carry Refined

Next in the lineup, the California Compliant Echelon 4.0C and 4.0C Comp are tailored for the everyday carrier—compact, powerful, and fully loaded with premium features. These pistols maintain the same DNA as their full-size counterparts but in a shorter, more concealable footprint.

The Echelon 4.0C features a 4-inch barrel, small-frame grip module, and comes optics-ready with the VIS mount. It’s engineered for shooters who want the adaptability of a duty pistol but sized for IWB carry. The slide features a clean profile with tritium/luminescent U-Dot sights and a billet-machined Melonite finish. At 24 oz, this compact package retains its rugged feel and control while shaving size where it counts. MSRP: $694.

Then there’s the 4.0C Comp, which adds the integrated single-port compensator for optimal control during fast strings of fire—a rare feature on a California-legal carry gun. This variant offers all the concealability of the 4.0C with performance-enhancing porting for minimal muzzle rise. MSRP: $765.

Both compact models are optics-ready, feature the same serialized Central Operating Group, and come with two 10-round mags for compliance and convenience.

Springfield Armory has delivered a rare blend of modularity, performance, and state compliance with the new California Compliant Echelon lineup. From duty-ready control in the 4.5F Comp to EDC finesse in the 4.0C Comp, this series offers something powerful and practical for every California shooter.

About The Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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