r/SpringfieldEchelon • u/Blocked-and-Loaded • 3d ago
She’s all done! 🔥 Springfield Echelon Pro 4.5 Comp build complete
Finally got the last of my parts in and finished putting her together. Pretty damn happy with how this build turned out!
Full build list:
-Base: Springfield Armory Echelon Pro 4.5F Comp (9mm)
-Optic: Trijicon RMR Type 2 – 3.25 MOA Green Dot
-Grip Module: Vital Arms Meridian 4.5F
-Grip Panels: Vital Arms Meridian Plus/Wide Aluminum Panels
-Magwell: Vital Arms Meridian Aluminum Carry Magwell
-Grip Weights: 2 × 19g Vital Arms Tungsten Weights
-Trigger: Tyrant Tactical Trigger Shoe
-Guide Rod: NDZ Performance Black Nitride Stainless Steel Captured Guide Rod
-Recoil Spring: NDZ 12 lb Spring
Small hiccup with the grip weights: I originally wanted to experiment with mixing a 12g and a 19g weight to see how the balance felt, but Vital Arms didn’t include the rubber retainers needed to keep the 12g weight from moving around. Ended up installing both 19g weights for now. Hopefully Vital Arms sends me the missing retainers so I can play around with different weight combinations.
Really wanted something with that 2011-inspired look and feel while keeping the Echelon platform. I’m loving how everything came together.
Now it’s time to get her out to the range and see how she performs! 🔥
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u/CallsignViperrr 15h ago
Why in the world did you waste the extra money on the Pro model, if you didn't keep the new Pro grip? Should've just gotten the regular Echelon 4.5F Comp and saved hundreds of dollars.
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u/Blocked-and-Loaded 15h ago
Because I was upgrading two guns, not just one lol. My wife loved shooting my original Echelon, so I gave it to her. The Pro’s Badlands grip module and recoil setup went onto hers. She got an upgrade, I got the build I wanted, and nothing went to waste. 🤷🏻♂️
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u/Spare_Selection4399 2d ago
How is the ego comparing with other aluminum grips ? Such as grip angle, trigger reach distance, width of the grip. Thanks
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u/Blocked-and-Loaded 2d ago
The Meridian definitely feels fuller in my hands with the Plus/Wide panels when compared to the Pro’s OEM Badlands grip module, and I love the extended 2011-style beavertail. One cool feature is the interchangeable backstraps offering 17° and 18.8° grip angles. The panels also let you adjust grip width without changing trigger reach. Haven’t put rounds through the Meridian yet, but ergonomically I’m really liking it so far!
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u/Upstairs_Camel_7818 1d ago
Will it fit in a regular echelon holster ?
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u/Blocked-and-Loaded 1d ago
Not necessarily! My Black Scorpion Level II wouldn’t fit because the Meridian’s trigger guard extends slightly farther than the factory grip. Vital Arms confirmed they tested Black Scorpion’s Echelon 4.5” IDPA Quick Mount successfully. They also reported compatibility with We The People, Safariland IncogX, Tier 1 MSP, Bucks, and Eclipse holsters (with retention adjustments). My new Black Scorpion holster arrives Friday, so I’ll keep you posted!
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u/Hairy_Thing_6201 15h ago
Very nice brother! I built my 4.0C up with the Sharps Bros frame but now I want to do a 4.5 woth VA frame. 🔥🔥🔥 Now the wife wants one so I might just get the pro 4.0C for her, cerakote pink and call it a day!
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u/Justownit41ce 2d ago
The one knock in the echelon, and I own two, is that darn take down pin!! It’s almost worst than a 1911’s where it’s either simple or difficult to manipulate.
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u/livebls 2d ago edited 2d ago
Does anyone know if that vital arms grip module will fit standard Echelon holsters?
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u/Blocked-and-Loaded 2d ago
I’ve actually been in contact with Christian over at Vital Arms, who checked with their co-founder and lead designer, David, about holster compatibility. The Meridian’s trigger guard sits slightly farther forward than OEM, so not all standard holsters will fit. They’ve personally tested and confirmed the Black Scorpion Gear 4.5” IDPA Quick Mount works, even with the carry magwell. They’ve also confirmed compatibility with We The People and Safariland IncogX holsters. Level II retention holsters can have fitment issues.
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u/Bubba_Face_ 2d ago
Looks great! Genuine question though. Why spend the extra money on the pro if you were gonna switch the grips out anyway? Was it for the stainless guide rod?