Springfield Armory Hellcat Review
Bottomline
The Springfield Armory Hellcat delivers unmatched capacity and performance in a micro-compact package.
When it comes to concealed carry, size matters, but not in the way you’d think. The Springfield Armory Hellcat is proof that small doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. This micro-compact pistol burst onto the scene with a bold claim – the highest capacity in its class. But does it live up to its claim? Let’s dive into the details and see if the Hellcat is the concealed carry companion you’ve been searching for.
Table of Contents
Bottomline
The Springfield Armory Hellcat delivers unmatched capacity and performance in a micro-compact package.
Pros
- Hammer-forged steel barrel with a melonite finish
- High capacity for a pocket pistol
- Lightweight and compact
- Aggressive grip texture
- Crisp trigger break
- Ambidextrous thumb safety
- Light trigger pull (approx. 5 lbs)
Cons
- Pricey for a sub-compact pistol
- Snappy recoil
Springfield Armory Hellcat Specs
| Caliber | Capacity | BBL | OAL | Width (slide) | Height | Weight |
| 9mm | 11+1, 13+1 | 3″ | 6″ | 1″ | 4″ | 17.9 oz. |
Springfield Armory Hellcat Features
- Outstanding Capacity: The Hellcat packs 11+1 rounds in a flush-fit magazine and 13+1 in the extended mag, leading the micro-compact class in firepower.
- Compact and Lightweight: At just 18.3 ounces, it’s perfect for all-day carry without weighing you down.
- Optics-Ready Option: The OSP model makes mounting a red dot effortless, a huge plus for those looking to modernize their concealed carry setup.
- Excellent Grip Texture: Springfield nailed the grip texture. It’s aggressive without being uncomfortable, giving you a solid hold even in wet conditions.
- Quality Sights: The U-Dot sight system is intuitive and effective, especially in low light, thanks to the tritium front sight.
- Durable Build: The Melonite finish ensures longevity, resisting wear and tear even with heavy use.
How It Stacks Up
The Hellcat competes directly with heavy hitters like the SIG Sauer P365 and Glock 43X. Its capacity advantage is undeniable, but recoil and trigger feel are areas where some may lean toward the competition. However, if you prioritize capacity, durability, and the option for optics, the Hellcat deserves a top spot on your shortlist.
Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews
The Final Verdict
The Springfield Armory Hellcat is a feature-packed micro-compact that delivers on its promises. Its high capacity, durable build, and optics-ready design make it a standout choice for concealed carry. Sure, the recoil may be a bit sharp, and the trigger could use refinement, but these minor drawbacks don’t overshadow its overall performance.
If you’re looking for a concealed carry pistol that punches above its weight, the Hellcat might just be your perfect fit. After all, who doesn’t want to carry a little powerhouse that’s ready to perform when it matters most?
Springfield Armory Hellcat Score Card
| Ergonomics | Aggressive grip texture for the win! | 2.91 |
| Trigger | Functional but less refined than its competitors. | 4.45 |
| Accuracy | Reliable despite its size. | 4 |
| Quality | High capacity for a pocket pistol. | 4.3 |
| Value | Pricey! | 2.16 |
| Overall | The Springfield Armory Hellcat delivers unmatched capacity and performance in a micro-compact package. | 3.59 |
More Hellcat Photos
