September 25th, 2019
4:19 runtime
Full disclosure, here.
I normally carry full-size guns for CCW.
But then I undertook this Springfield Hellcat review and my mind may be forever changed.
With the Hellcat, the typical trade-offs seem to have disappeared.
It was always basic physics that seemed to get in the way.
That is, until now.
It seems theres a pistol that might just offer the best of both worlds full-size capabilities and CCW-ready dimensions.
Beating Physics?
The Hellcat is the new CCW pistol from Springfield Armory.
With modern self-defense ammunition, I feel it is plenty powerful enough to handle any two-legged predator.
Packing up to 14 rounds (13+1) into such an easy to conceal package is mind blowing.
Lets take a look and see.
Also, be sure to check out my full video review at the top of this page.
But first lets discuss its dimensions so you might appreciate how small it is.
The pistol weighs around 18 oz., has a short 3 barrel and is a mere 1 wide.
As a result, optics sit low enough to allow co-witnessing the irons with the red dot.
Pricing of the two models?
In regard to the frame, the Hellcat has lots of really nice enhancements.
A short strip of standard rail on the dustcover rounds out the package.
It is not, but rather a totally new design direction for Springfield Armory.
I put several boxes of American Eagle 9mm 124-gr.
FMJ,Black Hills 125-gr.
Honey Badgerand several other assorted defensive loads through the Hellcat on the range and didnt have any malfunctions.
How accurate is the Springfield Hellcat?
Very accurate, as it turns out.
I consistently rang 6 steel plates at 25 yards with the pistol.
Closer in, the groups were satisfyingly tight.
Is it like shooting a full-size, all-steel 9mm 1911?
But, for its size and weight, the Hellcat handles extremely well and is very manageable.
However, I quickly switched over to only using the red dot while shooting.
Springfield Hellcat Specs
Conclusion
Well, thats it.
Springfields new Hellcat has made me reconsider my long-held opinion that I only want to carry full-size pistols.
So Im definitely going to add one of these new little shooters to my collection.
And if you want the best CCW gun around, I suggest you do the same.
Go to forum thread
HellcatSeries
Shield SightsRMSc
FederalAmerican Eagle
Black HillsHoneyBadger
