Introduced in 2019, the Springfield Hellcat took the industry by storm. With the success of pistols like the Smith & Wesson Shield, the Glock 43, and the Sig Sauer P365, the Hellcat was Springfield’s foray into the slimline polymer pistol market.
Boasting outstanding features such as 11+1 capacity, improved texturing and sights, as well as an optic cut, Hellcat sales soared. Since its introduction, numerous Hellcat iterations have debuted, each with a unique suite of features.
Today, Springfield continues on that path with the new Springfield Hellcat .380.
SPECS
Fully dubbed the “Hellcat 3-in Micro-Compat OSP .380 ACP Handgun,” (whew), it retains many features of the other models in the lineup. And it is a robust lineup with currently 50 unique UPCs listed, including Hellcat Pro models (literally something for everyone).
Now, with the inclusion of a .380 model, shooters have another option. Below are the quick specs:
- Model: Hellcat 3” Micro-Compact OSP
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Capacity: 11+1 (Flush), 13+1 (Extended)
- Sights: Tritium/Luminescent Front, Tactical Rack U-Notch Rear
- Barrel Length: 3”
- Overall Length: 6”
- Width at Grip: 1”
- Height: 4” w/ flush mag, 4.5 w/ extended mag.
- Weight: 16.1 oz w/ flush mag, 16.5 oz w/ extended mag.
FEATURES
Like many models within the Hellcat lineup, the new .380 model is optimized for concealed carry. The pistol’s narrow width of 1” and weight of just over 16 ounces make it ideal for concealment. The smart texturing on the grip and along the frame just above the trigger guard make for a comfortable shooting experience. The slide serrations are also deep enough to be effective.
As an OSP model, the slide is milled to accommodate direct mounting of popular compact red dots with a Shield RMSc footprint (or Romeo Zero footprint, if you prefer that terminology). All modern pistols should come from the factory with an optics cut, and Springfield wisely continues this practice. However, the main reason for this pistol’s introduction is its .380 ACP chambering.
WHY A .380 CARRY GUN?
The straightforward answer—reduced recoil. Springfield argues, “the Hellcat .380 combines a softer shooting impulse with slim, lightweight dimensions for exceptional control and effortless concealment. Paired with modern defensive ammunition, it delivers reliable penetration and expansion for potent personal defense.”
This is for shooters who are recoil sensitive, have severe arthritis or dexterity issues, or just want something different. Just because it’s a .380 ACP doesn’t mean it’s made exclusively for one type of shooter. (Don’t pigeonhole yourselves.)
Zooming Out
The new Hellcat chambered in .380 ACP is the latest in an already successful lineup. The addition of a new caliber is the line’s first, and an overall wise choice. It’s another option for shooters looking for something different. Current MSRP is $653. The pistol ships with two mags (one flush and one extended), a lock, an owner’s manual, and a pistol case.
