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Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro Review
Price Range:
$650 - $700
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| First Build Date | 2021 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 15 Rounds (Standard Magazine) |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 21 oz |
| Material | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide |
| Price Range | $650 – $700 |
Overview
The Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro is an advanced compact handgun designed for concealed carry with impressive capacity and performance. Released in 2021, it is a larger variant of the highly successful Hellcat series, providing a 15-round magazine in a small, easily concealable form factor. Chambered in 9mm Luger, this semi-automatic pistol is specifically designed to offer the ideal balance of firepower, portability, and reliability.
With a barrel length of 3.7 inches and weighing only 21 ounces when unloaded, the Hellcat Pro remains compact and manageable, yet offers a full-size grip for better control during firing. Its steel slide and polymer frame provide durability and resistance to harsh conditions, making it a perfect choice for both everyday carry and range use.
Strength and Quality
The Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro is made with high-quality materials, ensuring a solid build and long-lasting durability. The polymer frame provides lightweight performance without sacrificing strength, while the steel slide offers superior durability and resistance to wear. The trigger pull is smooth and consistent, making it easy for users to maintain accuracy during shooting sessions.
The finish is excellent, and the pistol’s overall craftsmanship demonstrates Springfield Armory’s commitment to producing top-tier firearms. The addition of a tactical rack slide, which enhances the user experience when chambering a round, is a great touch for users looking for quicker reloading or tactical use.
Safety Features
The Hellcat Pro includes several key safety features to ensure safe operation:
- Trigger Safety: The Hellcat Pro is equipped with a trigger safety to prevent accidental discharge if the trigger is not intentionally pulled.
- Internal Safety Mechanisms: The pistol includes a striker safety, preventing the striker from moving forward unless the trigger is fully engaged.
- Grip Safety: A tactile grip safety ensures the user has a secure hold on the pistol before it will fire, offering added peace of mind.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the Hellcat Pro demonstrated outstanding accuracy for its compact size. At a distance of 7 yards, the pistol achieved a grouping of approximately 1.5 inches, while at 15 yards, the group measured around 3 inches. This level of precision, especially from a compact concealed carry pistol, is highly commendable.
Recoil and Control
The Hellcat Pro’s recoil is well-managed due to its weight and ergonomic design. Despite being a compact handgun, it handles recoil effectively, enabling rapid follow-up shots. The textured grip ensures a secure hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions, making it a reliable firearm in various environments.
Reliability
Over an extensive 1,000-round test, the Hellcat Pro exhibited exceptional reliability. No malfunctions or failures to feed were observed, even when using a variety of ammunition types including hollow points and full metal jacket rounds. This confirms the Hellcat Pro’s status as a dependable firearm for self-defense and personal protection.
Also Read: Stoeger STR-9C Review
Merits
- Compact Design: The Hellcat Pro is easy to conceal, making it a perfect option for everyday carry.
- High Capacity: Despite its small size, the Hellcat Pro offers an impressive 15-round magazine capacity.
- Accuracy: The Hellcat Pro excels in accuracy, with tight groupings even at longer ranges.
- Low Recoil: Its design helps manage recoil, ensuring quick follow-up shots.
- Reliability: The Hellcat Pro has proven to be reliable with a variety of ammunition types during extensive testing.
Demerits
- Price: At $650-$700, the Hellcat Pro is on the higher end of the price spectrum for compact pistols.
- Small Grip for Larger Hands: The grip, while ergonomic, might feel too small for those with larger hands, which could affect control for some users.
- Limited Aftermarket Options: While there are some customization options, the Hellcat Pro’s aftermarket support is still growing, compared to larger, more established handgun models.
Maintenance
Maintaining the Hellcat Pro is relatively simple. Field stripping the pistol is straightforward, requiring only a few steps. After use, it is important to clean the barrel and slide to prevent any buildup of residue, especially after extended use. Regular lubrication of the slide and recoil spring will help maintain smooth operation, while ensuring the pistol remains reliable in various environments.
Regular maintenance ensures the Hellcat Pro remains in top condition for years, making it a dependable choice for self-defense or sport shooting.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Springfield Hellcat Pro | Sig Sauer P365 XL | Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus | Glock 43X | Ruger Max-9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15 Rounds | 12 Rounds | 10 Rounds | 10 Rounds | 10 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches | 3.7 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.41 inches | 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 21 oz | 20.7 oz | 20.2 oz | 18.7 oz | 18.4 oz |
| Price Range | $650 – $700 | $600 – $700 | $550 – $650 | $500 – $600 | $400 – $500 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Hellcat Pro offers an excellent combination of small size, high capacity (15 rounds), and low recoil, making it one of the best concealed carry pistols in its class.
Yes, the Hellcat Pro's compact size and slim profile make it a solid choice for concealed carry, though those with larger hands may find the grip a bit small.
The Hellcat Pro performs exceptionally well in accuracy, especially for a compact pistol. It delivers tight groupings at 7 and 15 yards, making it ideal for personal defense.
Yes, the Hellcat Pro is simple to field strip and clean. Routine maintenance, including lubrication, ensures its reliable function for years.
While priced higher than some competitors, the Hellcat Pro’s combination of quality, performance, and features makes it worth the investment for those looking for a top-tier concealed carry pistol.
