I’ve had the privilege of getting my hands on some of the finest firearms out there. This time, it’s a showdown between two heavyweights: the Beretta APX A1 Vs Springfield Echelon.
My goal? To put these guns through their paces and see which one comes out on top. I’ll be sharing my firsthand experience, detailing the specs, and offering my honest opinion on how they perform out in the field.
| Feature | Beretta APX A1 | Springfield Echelon |
| Type | Striker fired, semiautomatic | Recoil operated, striker fired, semiautomatic |
| Cartridge | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rds. | 10+1, 17+1, 20+1 rds. |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches | 4.5 inches (standard), 5.28 inches (optional threaded) |
| Overall Length | 7.55 inches | 8 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches | 1.2 inches |
| Height | 5.6 inches | 5.5 inches |
| Weight | 1 lb., 13 oz. | 1 lb., 7.9 oz. |
Overview of Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1, a modern marvel in the world of firearms, combines sleek design with robust functionality.
Specs
- Type: Striker fired, semiautomatic
- Cartridge: 9mm
- Capacity: Options of 10+1 rds., 15+1 rds., or 17+1 rds.
- Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
- Overall Length: 7.55 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Height: 5.6 inches
- Weight: 1 lb., 13 oz.
- Sights: Steel, serrated, black rear sights; tritium dot front sight
- Trigger: 6 lbs. pull weight (as tested)
Overview of Springfield Echelon
The Springfield Armory Echelon is a firearm that’s as much about precision as it is about power.
Specs
- Type: Recoil operated, striker fired, semiautomatic
- Cartridge: 9mm
- Capacity: Options of 10+1, 17+1, or 20+1 rds.
- Barrel Length: 4.5 inches (standard), 5.28 inches (optional threaded)
- Overall Length: 8 inches
- Width: 1.2 inches
- Height: 5.5 inches
- Weight: 1 lb., 7.9 oz.
- Sights: Tritium/luminescent front, Tactical Rack U-Dot rear, optic ready
- Trigger: 4 lbs., 15 oz. pull weight (as tested)
Beretta APX A1 VS Springfield Echelon: A Detailed Feature Comparison
1. Ergonomics and Handling
Beretta APX A1
Holding the Beretta APX A1 feels like grasping a piece of robust, reliable engineering. Its slightly taller and wider frame, compared to the Echelon, imparts a sense of solidity and control.
The heft of the gun, weighing at 1 lb., 13 oz., provides a reassuring presence in the hand. Its well-designed grip and overall balance contribute to a natural and comfortable shooting stance, especially for those who appreciate a substantial feel in their firearms.
This solidity could be a boon for shooters who prefer a firm, steady grip during prolonged shooting sessions.
Springfield Echelon
In contrast, the Springfield Echelon is the epitome of agility and ease. Weighing in at just 1 lb., 7.9 oz., it is noticeably lighter than the APX A1.
This reduction in weight, coupled with its slimmer profile, allows for swift handling and maneuverability.
During testing, this lightness translated to reduced fatigue and greater control, particularly in scenarios requiring quick movement or extended periods of holding the firearm. Its ergonomic design caters well to a variety of hand sizes, making it an ideal choice for shooters looking for comfort without sacrificing stability.
Winner
Springfield Echelon takes the lead in ergonomics and handling. While the APX A1 offers a substantial feel, Echelon’s lighter and more streamlined design provides an enhanced experience in maneuverability and comfort.
This makes Echelon particularly suitable for scenarios requiring swift handling and agility, as well as for shooters who may find heavier firearms challenging over longer periods.
2. Sight System
Beretta APX A1
The APX A1’s sight system comprises steel, serrated black rear sights and a front tritium dot, designed for efficiency and effectiveness in a variety of lighting conditions.
While these sights are fundamentally solid, my experience in the field revealed a need for a slightly elevated point of aim to achieve precision shots.
This characteristic may require a period of adjustment for shooters, particularly those accustomed to more traditional sight alignments.
Springfield Echelon
The Echelon’s sight system, featuring tritium/luminescent front sights and Tactical Rack U-Dot rear sights, is a step ahead in terms of usability and precision.
These sights offer a remarkably clear and intuitive sight picture, facilitating quick and accurate target acquisition in diverse lighting conditions.
During testing, I found these sights to be more user-friendly, requiring no adjustment in point of aim, which is crucial for high-speed shooting and low-light environments.
Winner
Springfield Echelon wins in the sight system category. Its innovative U-Dot configuration offers significant advantages over the Beretta’s more traditional setup.
The clear, intuitive sight picture it provides, without the need for point of aim adjustment, makes it superior for quick and accurate shooting across various scenarios. This feature positions Echelon as a top choice for shooters who value speed and adaptability in their sighting system.
3. Trigger Performance
Beretta APX A1
The APX A1’s trigger, with a measured pull weight of 6 lbs., delivers a satisfactory performance. It’s functional and reliable, yet during intensive testing, it exhibited a somewhat squishier feel compared to the Echelon’s trigger.
This characteristic might not detract from its overall usability but could impact shooters looking for a more tactile and responsive trigger experience. In rapid-fire situations, this less crisp feel might affect shot placement precision and speed, especially for those who rely on a quick, clean break for successive shots.
Springfield Echelon
On the other hand, the Springfield Echelon’s trigger, at a lighter pull weight of 4 lbs. 15 oz., excels in responsiveness and crispness.
This trigger demonstrates a remarkable balance between sensitivity and control, offering a quick, clean break with a shorter reset.
Such attributes greatly enhance rapid shooting capabilities, providing a controlled and precise firing experience.
Throughout the testing, this trigger’s performance stood out for its ability to facilitate faster and more accurate shooting, even under pressure.
Winner
In the realm of trigger performance, the Springfield Echelon clearly outshines the Beretta APX A1. Its lighter and more responsive trigger, compared to the Beretta’s slightly heavier and less tactile one, offers a superior shooting experience.
This aspect of the Echelon is particularly appealing to shooters who prioritize rapid, precise shot placement, marking it as a preferable choice for competitive and tactical scenarios.
4. Optics Mounting Capability
Beretta APX A1
The APX A1 allows for the mounting of a red dot sight, but it requires the purchase of an adapter plate.
This adds an extra step and expense for those who want to use optics. However, it does provide flexibility for those who may want to switch between different optics.
Springfield Echelon
Echelon offers a more user-friendly approach to optics mounting. It employs a system of cammed, removable pins, which can adapt to almost any optic without additional cost.
This design simplifies the process of adding an optic and broadens the range of compatible devices.
Winner
When it comes to optics mounting capability, Springfield Echelon takes the lead. Its versatile and easy-to-change mounting system, compared to the additional cost and effort needed for the Beretta APX A1, makes it a more attractive choice for those who frequently use or switch optics.
Pros & Cons of Beretta APX A1
Pros
- Solid, reassuring feel in hand
- Durable and reliable
- More affordable price point
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
- Requires additional purchase for optics mounting
- Sights may require a higher point of aim
Pros & Cons of Springfield Echelon
Pros
- Lighter and more agile
- User-friendly optics mounting system
- Superior sight system for various light conditions
Cons
- More expensive
Similarities Between Beretta APX A1 & Springfield Echelon
- Both are striker-fired, semiautomatic 9mm handguns.
- Each offers options for different magazine capacities.
- Both are designed for reliability and durability.
- Each model is equipped with high-quality sights.
- Both models are capable of mounting optics.
Differences Between Beretta APX A1 & Springfield Echelon
- The APX A1 is heavier and bulkier compared to the sleeker Echelon.
- Echelon has a more advanced optics mounting system.
- APX A1 has a slightly higher point of aim with its sights.
- Echelon’s trigger is crisper and lighter than the APX A1’s.
- The APX A1 is more affordable compared to the higher-priced Echelon.
- Echelon offers more flexibility in optics compatibility without extra cost.
- APX A1 is taller and wider, while Echelon is longer and slimmer.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Beretta APX A1 and the Springfield Echelon, my conclusion is drawn not just from the specs but from the overall shooting experience.
While both guns exhibit impressive qualities, the Springfield Echelon emerges as the winner in most comparisons. Its superior ergonomics, advanced sight system, and more responsive trigger give it a significant edge.
The ease and comfort of handling, coupled with its adaptability in various shooting scenarios, make the Echelon stand out as the more versatile and user-friendly option.
FAQ’s
Does the Beretta APX A1 have a safety?
Yes, the Beretta APX A1 has a safety mechanism that includes a device on the trigger to prevent unintended firing, even if the pistol is dropped.
Is the Beretta APX A1 modular?
Yes, the Beretta APX A1 is known for its improved modularity, including features like a red-dot optic ready slide and a shorter, lighter trigger pull.
Is the Beretta APX A1 ambidextrous?
The Beretta APX A1 is ambidextrous, with configurable controls for right or left-handed shooters, including slide and mag release adjustments.
Is the Beretta APX single or double-action?
The Beretta APX is a double-action-only pistol.
