October 7th, 2024
7minute read
Prudent people carry a sidearm.
A semi-automatic rifle, while larger and heavier than a pistol, provides the armed citizen with increased capabilities.
This means that most engagements, even with a rife, will take place within relatively short distances.
Due to its compact nature, the Springfield Armory Hellion makes for an excellent rifle for vehicle defense. Even with a suppressor mounted, they often have a shorter overall length than an AR-style rifle.
But, the capabilities of a rifle even at abbreviated distances are notable.
(As noted, check your state and local laws before carrying a loaded rifle in a vehicle.)
Springfield Armory Hellion
In my opinion, the 16-barreled Springfield Hellion is the perfect vehicle-based rifle.
Even though it is compact, the Hellion has a full-length barrel. This avoids the hassle of paperwork for an SBR while also maintaining optimal ammunition performance.
The Hellion is a modern, fully ambidextrous, 21stcentury design.
[Be sure to read Paul CarlsonsSpringfield Hellion reviewfor more information on these semi-automatic rifles.]
Fortunately, mounting optics on the Hellion is relatively simple due to its full-length, metal Picatinny rail.
The laws of self-defense remain the same regardless of the firearm you use for self-defense. Here, the author deploys his Hellion rifle from a car.
This particular scope gives me options.
At higher magnifications, the scope aids in clearly identifying threats.
I used a Nightforce one piece mount to mount the optic.
The Vertx VTAC Rifle Scabbard offers a way to both transport and protect your rifle. It can also organize additional equipment, including spare magazines.
[Dont miss ourNightforce NX8 1-8 reviewon this impressive rifle scope.]
Additional Accessories
Any rifle intended for serious use must have a sling.
For my Hellion car rifle, I selected a Magpul MS1 QDM Sling.
By moving the action behind the trigger, the Springfield Armory Hellion bullpup is handy and compact. It is also ambidextrous, allowing you to shoot from either shoulder.
First, the QDM quick-release swivels mate nicely with the female QD mounts on the Hellion.
And third, the MS1 sling is made in America, which is important to me.
Consequently, I keep my Hellion loaded with Hornady Critical Defense rifle ammunition.
The author practices deploying his Springfield Hellion inside of his car. While shooting from inside your car can be a valid response to a threat, escape or evasion should also be considered whenever possible.
This cartridge is loaded with a 55-gr.
This bullets polymer tip will not clog as it goes through barriers, but will expand on target.
This bullet is less likely to over-penetrate than other bullet types.
The author’s Hellion equipped with a Nightforce Optics NX8 1-8x scope and Magpul MS1 QDM Sling.
However, it does not relieve the defensive carbine user from identifying their target and what is beyond it.
Some folks will probably want to set up an Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK).
Final Thoughts
Youve probably heard the saying hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
Hornady Critical Defense ammunition performed well in the Springfield Armory Hellion. At 100 yards, the author was able to group five shots within an inch. Three shot groups were about half of that size.
No one can accurately predict the future.
However, history should be a good guide of what can happen.
You should have a plan for what to do in case you find a threat while on the road.
Along with your rifle, consider packing emergency medical supplies and eye/hearing protection. You never know what may transpire, and being prepared is always a good idea.
That plan should include communications and alternative routes to get out of the area and get home.
Depending on your needs, capabilities and state laws, a firearm may be part of that planning process.
If it is consider your choices carefully and get good training.
Go to forum thread
HellionTMSeries
Hornady.223 55 gr.
