Springfield Echelon "Gear Up" Bundle: Is It Actually Worth the Money?
If you’ve been eyeing the Springfield Echelon, you’ve likely seen the "Gear Up" promotion popping up at your local gun store or online. Springfield is known for these massive value bundles, but is the extra gear actually high-quality, or is it just filler to move units?
We recently unboxed the full package to see if this duty-grade 9mm is a better deal with the bundle or if you should just buy the base pistol.
What’s Inside the "Gear Up" Bundle?
The Gear Up promotion isn't just a marketing gimmick; it adds significant "out-of-the-box" value for both new shooters and range enthusiasts. Here is the breakdown:
1. The Springfield Range Bag
Unlike the flimsy soft cases that come with some pistols, this is a dedicated range bag.
Features: Front pouch with a mag loader, internal pistol sleeves (fits both an Echelon and a smaller backup like a Hellcat), and dedicated mag slots.
Value: This saves you $30–$50 on a standalone bag.
2. Five Total Magazines
The Echelon normally comes with two magazines. The Gear Up package adds three additional magazines.
Configuration: You typically get a mix of 17-round flush fit and 20-round extended base plate magazines.
Why it matters: Extra magazines for the Echelon usually retail for $35–$45 each. That’s over $100 in added value just in glass.
3. Viridian RFX11 Green Dot Sight
This is the "big ticket" item in the bundle. The RFX11 is an auto-brightness green dot designed for direct mounting.
The Verdict: It’s a solid entry-level optic. However, in my personal experience, the auto-brightness sensor isn't always 100% perfect. I find that the Viridian dots are acceptable for plinking but not a dot I would trust with my life or for serious competition use. If you’re wanting more legitimate dot options click here.
Use code “get12” to save 12% off your order.
First Impressions: The Echelon Itself
Beyond the bundle, the Echelon is making waves for its ergonomics and modularity.
Adaptive Grip Texture: Same as the Hellcat. It’s "bitey" when you grip it hard but won't cheese-grate your skin during IWB carry.
The Trigger: A standout in the polymer-frame world. It breaks at a crisp 90° with a very short reset.
Interchangeable Chassis: The Central Operating Group (COG) is the serialized part. This allows you to swap frames and slides to turn your duty-sized gun into a compact version easily.
Direct Mount Optics: No plates needed! The Echelon’s "Variable Interface System" lets you mount most popular optics directly to the slide for a lower co-witness.
Essential Add-Ons for Your Echelon
If you’ve picked up the bundle, here are the three things you should add to complete the build:
Weapon Light: The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is the gold standard for this frame size. (I’ve also used and tested the budget Harbor Freight clone, which looks great for range use).
Optic Upgrade: If the Viridian isn't for you, the Holosun 507K or 507 Comp are the top-rated upgrades for this platform.
Be sure to use “get12” to save 12% off your Optic’s Planet order.
Magazine Loader: Loading five 20-round mags by hand is a workout. A Maglula is the best $30 you will ever spend.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Bundle?
Yes. If you can find the Echelon with the Gear Up package for near the standard MSRP (around $600–$650), the value is undeniable. Between the $120 worth of magazines, the $150 optic, and the range bag, you are getting nearly $300 of equipment for very little extra cost.
Watch the full unboxing and overview here: Springfield Echelon Gear Up Bundle Review
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
It genuinely helps the channel out. I pour the money I get back into the channel for the next firearm to review or more ammo, accessories, etc.
