First Look: Springfield Armory EMP4 in .40 S&W

At the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings, Springfield introduced a new caliber to its EMP4 line. The Springfield Armory EMP4 in .40 S&W carries a 9+1 capacity, while its 9mm cousin features a 10+1 capacity.

An extended length and height make the Springfield Armory EMP4 Lightweight Champion easier to shoot while adding ammunition capacity.

The Springfield Armory EMP4 offers a longer four-inch barrel that presents a longer sight radius and simplified practical accuracy. Depending on specific ammunition choice, the extended barrel length will also add an extra 20 to 60 feet per second of muzzle velocity. That helps premium self-defense ammunition perform up to its designed potential.

"While the original EMP4 three-inch models are surprisingly easy to handle, we wanted to continue to make it better," Springfield Armory CEO Dennis Reese said. "The extra weight up front on the new four-inch model not only helps dampen felt recoil, it helps control muzzle flip, allowing shooters to complete faster and more accurate follow-up shots."

The frame height has also been carefully increased with similar proportions. The new grip allows plenty of room for a solid two-handed hold, even for shooters with larger hands.

Like the original EMP, the Springfield EMP4 sports slim-line Cocobolo wood grips and two-tone forged 416 stainless steel slide and 7075 black anodized aluminum frame. A fiber optic front sight and two-dot, low-profile combat rear sight for effortless target acquisition.

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Extras like the proprietary Springfield Armory Posi-Lok texture on the front of the grip frame are included at no extra cost as is the matching texture on the mainspring housing.

"It's an elite quality pistol," Reese said. "regarding size, this Springfield Armory EMP4 is one of the smallest on the market. The four-inch slide allows for a more user-friendly experience while the smaller grip maintains the optimal size for concealed carry."