Springfield Hellcat Vs Hellcat Pro

Updated: 10/9/2024

What sets the Hellcat Pro apart from its predecessor? Springfield Armory appears to be leaning into the idea that a larger version of the Hellcat somehow defines professionalism in a firearm.

A widely accepted belief in the firearms community is that while larger guns typically offer improved shootability, their smaller counterparts excel in concealability.

So, the real questions remain:

How much of a shooting advantage does the Hellcat Pro offer?

And conversely, how does the standard Hellcat continue to outperform in terms of concealment?

Main Benefits of the Hellcat Pro

The Hellcat Pro’s robust construction significantly mitigates muzzle flip, enhancing your ability to deliver quick, accurate follow-up shots. The extended barrel not only contributes to this stability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Hellcat Pro offers a high-capacity magazine that can carry 15 rounds, while still preserving the sleek, compact design of the original Hellcat. This model features a comfortably tall grip, accommodating four additional rounds compared to the standard Hellcat’s extended option, which holds up to 13 rounds. Additionally, the Hellcat Pro’s magazine is flush-fitting, avoiding the discomfort that can occur with the extended magazine of the standard model, which may pinch the hand during rapid reloads.

Main Benefits of the Standard Hellcat

Despite its smaller size, the standard Hellcat competes closely with its larger counterpart, delivering approximately 90% of the performance. It offers a flush-fitting magazine option that enhances concealability for those times when a more discreet profile is desired. The shorter grip of the standard Hellcat makes it nearly an inch less prominent than the Pro version, which is a significant advantage when concealment is a priority.

Moreover, the standard model’s shorter barrel contributes little to concealment, as it remains within the waistband, but it does reduce the overall weight of the firearm. This weight reduction is a welcome relief during long periods of carry, making the standard Hellcat a top choice for those who value comfort and discretion without sacrificing performance.

What Do Both Versions Have In Common?

Now that we covered the basics, let’s do a deep dive into both pistols!

Hellcat vs Hellcat Pro Specs

Hellcat VS Hellcat Pro Dimensions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Length – Hellcat: 6”

Hellcat Pro: 6.6”

Barrel length – Hellcat: 3”

Hellcat Pro: 3.7”

Height – Hellcat: 4” w/Flush mag – 4.5″ w/extended mag

Hellcat Pro: 4.8”

Grip width – Hellcat: 1”

Hellcat Pro: 1”

Weight – Hellcat: 17.9 ounces & 18.3 ounces (OSP) – 18.3 ounces w/flush mag  – 18.6 ounces (non-OSP version) w/extended mag

Hellcat Pro: 21 ounces

Hellcat VS Hellcat Pro Price – Hellcat: $569 – OSP version is $599

Hellcat Pro: $634 without optic

Both versions come with a Picatinny rail. Although, the rail on the Hellcat Pro is almost three-quarters of an inch longer.

If you want to carry lights (or other accessories) on the rail of your pistol and you’re deciding between the Hellcat VS Hellcat Pro, it just makes sense to choose the bigger Pro version.

Build Quality

Both the Hellcat and Hellcat Pro continue to impress with their robust construction, featuring billet machined slides complemented by a durable Melonite finish, keeping them resilient under various environmental conditions.

The dual captive recoil spring system is utilized in both models, with the Pro version naturally sporting a longer spring and guide rod to accommodate its enhanced specifications. Springfield has engineered these pistols to be +P rated, affirming their capability to handle the high pressures of 9mm +P ammunition. This not only speaks to the structural integrity of the firearms but also provides peace of mind for users who prefer or might consider using higher-velocity rounds.

The barrels of both the standard and Pro models are made from hammer-forged steel, also treated with a Melonite finish, which is renowned for its corrosion resistance and durability. The Pro’s barrel extends slightly longer, enhancing its ballistic performance without compromising the firearm’s balance.

Both versions feature a robust black polymer frame that maintains a lightweight profile without sacrificing strength. The grip on each model is nearly identical, employing Springfield’s innovative Adaptive Grip Texture which provides a secure hold under varied conditions. We’ll explain this further down in the ergonomics section.

Additionally, both models are equipped with a textured stand-off device designed to ensure the slide remains in battery even when the pistol is pressed against a surface, a critical feature for close-quarter situations.

Springfield’s commitment to quality is evident, positioning the Hellcat and Hellcat Pro to compete robustly in the market against any standard offering, and even holding their own against high-end, custom models, reflecting a blend of advanced engineering and practical design.

Hellcat vs Hellcat Pro Magazines

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The standard Hellcat ships with an 11-round magazine and a 13-round extended magazine. Springfield also includes a pinky extension for the 11-round mag if you choose to install it.

A flush-fitting floorplate comes pre-installed on the 11-round mag.

Both versions have a reversible mag release for left-handers.

Which One Conceals Better?

Of course, a small gun conceals better but there is plenty of gray area here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What we’re really looking at is:

The Hellcat Pro has expanded its dimensions slightly, being almost an inch taller at the grip and just over half an inch longer in barrel length compared to the standard Hellcat.

What difference does that really make?

For many, the difference might be minimal, but for others, the standard Hellcat already pushes the limits of easy concealment.

Here’s the real breakdown.

Statistically, about 90% of concealed carriers prefer positioning their firearm just behind the hip, while fewer than 10% opt for the appendix carry at the front. Those who favor the appendix style will definitely find the shorter barrel of the standard Hellcat more to their liking.

However, for those who carry behind the hip, barrel length becomes less of a concern compared to grip height.

So, does the taller grip of the Hellcat Pro present a challenge for concealment when carried behind the hip? Yes, slightly. The extended grip may become more noticeable, especially if you wear form-fitting clothing.

On the other hand, if your wardrobe tends to favor looser-fitting attire, the difference in concealment between the Hellcat Pro and the standard model might not be perceptible.

Yet, this statement doesn’t apply universally. Individuals with smaller frames, including many women, might find the larger size of the Hellcat Pro more difficult to conceal.

For average-sized men who don’t wear tight clothing and prefer carrying behind the hip, concealing either model should pose little issue.

Remember this important fact though.

Everything I just said about the ease of concealing the Hellcat VS Hellcat Pro depends on having the proper equipment in your load out.

Good holsters ensure your firearm remains securely in place throughout the day, ready for action when necessary.

Great holsters not only secure but also effectively conceal your firearm, ensuring it goes unnoticed by others.

The best holsters combine security, concealment, and comfort. After all, if your holster and pistol combination isn’t comfortable, you’re less likely to carry as often as you should.

No matter how amazing that Hellcat pistol is, it needs an amazing holster to make it really shine as a concealed carry companion.

Clinger Holsters are the absolute BEST holsters you can find because they are the most comfortable holsters you can find!

Clinger Holsters offers the finest holsters available, particularly noted for their comfort. Our Kydex holsters, especially when equipped with the optional Clinger Cushion, provide unmatched comfort, making concealed carry not just feasible but truly comfortable.

Shooting Impressions

Recoil

 

The Hellcat Pro represents a significant enhancement over the standard Hellcat, and it’s clear that Springfield’s engineers had specific improvements in mind when they introduced this longer-barreled model to their lineup.

The physics of shooting remain unchanged: a shorter barrel typically results in more felt recoil because there’s less mass to absorb the energy. When a 9mm cartridge is fired, the explosion drives the bullet forward while simultaneously pushing the firearm backward. The addition of mass in the firearm, particularly through a longer barrel, helps mitigate this rearward motion. Moreover, a longer barrel allows more time for the gunpowder to burn completely, enhancing the bullet’s velocity.

This engineering tweak not only improves the ballistic performance of the Hellcat Pro but also significantly reduces recoil. This reduction in recoil aids in maintaining the front sight closer to the target after firing, facilitating quicker follow-up shots. This advantage is precisely why Springfield added an extra 0.7 inches to the barrel length of the Hellcat Pro.

The results are as expected: the Hellcat Pro offers a shooting experience that is noticeably smoother than its predecessor. Additionally, the larger grip of the Pro model provides better handling and control, which is further enhanced if you opt for the extended grip on the standard model.

Sights

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Springfield Hellcat Pro is now equipped standard with a red dot cutout, while the original Hellcat offers this feature as an optional upgrade, known as the Hellcat OSP. The primary distinction between the Hellcat and the Hellcat OSP lies in this red dot integration. However, beyond this technological enhancement, the core fundamentals of a reliable pistol, like robust iron sights, remain crucial.

Both Hellcat models boast an identical sight system, with a subtle yet impactful difference. If you’re curious about what sets the Hellcat Pro apart—it’s the extended sight radius. The standard Hellcat measures 6 inches in length, whereas the Hellcat Pro extends to 6.6 inches. This additional 0.6 inches enhances the sight radius, generally improving accuracy by reducing the impact of slight aiming misalignments.

Springfield utilizes a U-Dot sight system for both variants, featuring a prominent dot at the front and a U-shaped notch at the rear, allowing for rapid and intuitive target acquisition. This setup is particularly advantageous for a defensive pistol where swift response is often more critical than precision targeting typical of sports shooting.

The front sight incorporates a green-colored tritium insert, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. Tritium is renowned for its longevity, maintaining luminance for years without needing recharging. Both the front and rear sights are constructed from durable steel, with the rear sight designed to facilitate tactical racking. This means that if one arm is incapacitated, the shooter can still rack the pistol single-handedly, adding a layer of functionality to the robust Hellcat series.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Simply push the rear sight against something with your free hand to rack the pistol.

There’s one more important point to make about these sights: they allow co-witnessing through a red dot if you have one installed on the pistol.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That’s very important on a self-defense pistol. While red dot batteries typically last over a year or two, they do eventually die.

It’s nice to know that you can still aim your pistol accurately using the iron sights if your red dot battery dies.

You simply look through the glass and line up your sights as if the red dot wasn’t there.

Hellcat VS Hellcat Pro Trigger

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The trigger on both pistols is the same. That’s a good thing because it’s a decent striker-fired trigger.

I won’t lie, I have other striker-fired pistols with better triggers straight from the factory.

The Hellcat and Hellcat Pro triggers feel like a slightly better Glock trigger to me.

The last quarter-inch of the trigger pull is just a tad spongy before it hits the wall.

After that, the break is pretty clean. The reset is short and audible. The reset could be a bit shorter but it’s decent.

It comes with a flat trigger that helps keep your trigger pull consistent.

The trigger group is also Nickel boron-coated. This helps with consistent trigger pulls.

Overall, it’s a good trigger and it’s identical on both pistols.

In my opinion, it’s an average trigger. There are some pistols in this category that are better. There are others that aren’t as good.

However, for a self-defense pistol, it’s good.

Hellcat vs Hellcat Pro Ergonomics

For the vast majority of people, the Hellcat Pro will just plain feel better in hand than the standard Hellcat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That’s because of the taller grip. It’s just more comfortable.

Everything else ergonomic-wise is pretty much identical.

They both have front slide serrations and rear serrations that wrap over the top of the pistol.

Both versions have Adaptive Grip Texture. It has staggered pyramids textured into the grip. When you grip tighter, the smaller pyramids bite into your grip.

The taller pyramids have a flattened top.

It works great for comfort. It won’t rub your skin raw on your hip.

The high undercut trigger guard and beaver tail on both models help control muzzle flip because it makes the bore axis sit lower in your hand.

You’ll also notice understated finger grooves on the front strap of both versions. Of course, the Hellcat Pro will have a more defined groove for your pinky.

Reliability

Both versions are equally (very) reliable. There’s nothing to add here.

Safety

Both versions are identical here as well. They both have a loaded chamber indicator via a witness hole at the top of the slide.

They both also have a safety inside the trigger. It’s a blade that has to be depressed in order for the rest of the trigger to be pressed.

Accuracy

Accuracy is an area where the Hellcat Pro shines. The longer sight radius and barrel come together to offer greater accuracy than you can achieve with the Hellcat.

This is a good reason to carry a longer-barreled gun.

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Hellcat vs Hellcat Pro Holster Selection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both pistols have a good holster selection on ClingerHolsters.com. Whichever version you choose, Clinger Holsters have many holsters from which to choose.
If you are going to spend money on a great gun like the Hellcat or Hellcat Pro, doesn’t it make sense to buy a high quality holster for it?

You’ll enjoy that premium pistol so much more if you match it with a premium holster.

The best part is the Clinger Cushion which makes it extremely comfortable.

Check out Clinger Holsters here:

Hellcat Holsters
Hellcat Pro Holsters

Conclusion

Overall Impressions

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’ll restate the obvious here.

The bigger Hellcat Pro is easier to shoot well. The standard Hellcat is easier to conceal.

I feel more confident on the shooting range with the Hellcat Pro. The taller grip feels amazing in my hand and when I’m shooting fast, I can definitely get my shots into a tighter grouping on the target. Plus it carries 15+1 rounds of 9mm! I love the Hellcat Pro.

Now, the standard Hellcat is more comfortable to conceal carry. It weighs a bit less and it’s less likely to be noticed poking through my shirt because of its shorter grip.

You can see the dilemma here! They both have their merits. I want both!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Which one should you buy…

Now if someone were to ask me which one I would buy if I could only buy one, I’d say I want both. Why only have one gun? Isn’t this America, after all?

I’d want the Hellcat Pro to carry as much as possible and to take to the gun range. I’d want the smaller, standard Hellcat to carry on days when I wanted a smaller pistol to tote around.

But what if you forced me to choose only one?

I’d have to go with the Hellcat Pro. The grip feels better in my hand and I can shoot it better.

If I didn’t have a smaller pistol to carry on days that my wardrobe demanded a smaller pistol, I would just have to change my wardrobe.

In truth though, no one should have just one concealed carry handgun. You need at least 3 sizes ranging from a pocket gun to a large gun.

Also, you shouldn’t have just one holster. You should have different carry options available.

Clinger Holsters provides pocket holsters, appendix holsters, and the ever-popular strong-side holster.

The best part is you can convert the Gear Holster into an Appendix Holster just by changing the belt clip!

Plus, the available Clinger Cushion makes concealed carry unbelievably comfortable.