Springfield Armory expanded its handgun lineup this year with the launch of the revolutionary Hellcat, which is now the highest capacity micro-compact 9mm handgun in the world, eclipsing other small micro-compacts that have made waves in the market in recent years.
“This is the first step in a new direction for Springfield Armory polymer handguns and embodies our disciplined approach to modern firearms design. Every detail of the Hellcat has been shaped by a singular mission—to deliver the definitive concealed carry handgun,” says Dennis Reese, CEO of Springfield Armory.
The 3-inch barreled Springfield Armory Hellcat micro-compact pistol features a capacity of 11+1 with its patented magazine—13+1 with the included extended mag—and is the result of years of development and engineering in addition to intensive collaboration with top engineers, shooters and self-defense experts.
In addition to its small dimensions and stunning capacity, the Hellcat offers a new approach to red-dot sight integration for an EDC pistol. Offered in an Optical Sight Pistol configuration, the Hellcat OSP features a seamless cover plate that removes to allow direct mounting of a micro red dot to the slide for the lowest possible profile. The result? A micro sized pistol weighing in at a mere 17.9 ounces with capabilities previously reserved only for full-size defensive handguns.
Complementing the optic is the U-Dot sight system, offered on both the OSP and standard non-optic model of the Springfield Armory Hellcat. It is made up of a high-visibility tritium and luminescent front sight paired with a tactical rack U-notch rear. This provides a quick-to-engage sighting system ready for a wide range of lighting conditions and allows one-handed racking of the slide. Additionally, the direct mount capability of the OSP allows for co-witnessing of the U-Dot sights with a red dot for ultimate instinctive target engagement.
Along with its small size and advanced features, the Springfield Armory Hellcat is designed to provide the durability needed in a dedicated self-defense pistol. The +P-rated pistol features a hammer-forged steel barrel and billet-machined slide, both featuring Melonite coating. The lightweight and strong frame features Adaptive Grip Texture, a seamless, pressure-activated texture featuring a pattern of staggered pyramid shapes. The taller pyramids have a flattened top to ensure comfort in the waistband, while the shorter pyramids come to a point and are engaged when the pistol is firmly gripped. A high-hand beavertail and undercut trigger guard situate the pistol low in the hand for maximum control. A reversible mag release and standard accessory rail for lights and lasers ensure maximum adaptability.
Rear serrations run over the top of the slide for quick and easy manipulation and are designed for positive engagement. The Hellcat’s flat trigger body and nickel boron-coated trigger group provide a consistent trigger pull. A full length guide rod and dual-active recoil spring ensure reliable operation and a smooth recoil impulse. The Hellcat also features a textured stand-off device at the muzzle that ensures the pistol will fire when pressed against a target.
Springfield Armory Hellcat pistols ship with one 11-round magazine with finger extension and optional flush-fitting floorplate, as well as one 13-round extended magazine. The suggested retail price for the base model Hellcat is $569, while the OSP optic-ready model retails for $599. For all the details on the new Springfield Armory Hellcat, visit the company's website at springfield-armory.com.
