Gun of the Week: Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 Pistol

Published on January 30, 2026
Duration: 2:49

This review of the Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 highlights its advantages as a concealed carry option, particularly for shooters seeking reduced recoil and easier slide manipulation compared to its 9mm counterpart. The video, presented by Jay Grazio, an Executive Editor of Shooting Illustrated, offers practical insights into its performance, including holster compatibility and optics readiness.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 is presented as an excellent concealed carry option, offering reduced recoil and easier slide manipulation compared to its 9mm counterpart. Its identical external dimensions and OSP optics-ready capability make it a versatile choice. Range tests suggest potential for increased speed and accuracy due to lower recoil.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Hellcat 380
  2. 00:18Recoil and Slide Manipulation
  3. 00:55Dimensional Comparison
  4. 01:35Holster Compatibility
  5. 01:57Optics and OSP Features
  6. 02:08Range Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 compared to the 9mm version?

The Hellcat 380's primary advantages are significantly reduced recoil and easier slide manipulation, making it more manageable for shooters with less hand strength. Modern .380 ammunition also narrows the performance gap with 9mm.

Is the Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 optics-ready?

Yes, the OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) version of the Hellcat 380 is optics-ready. It features a removable cover plate that accommodates red dot sights with an RMSc footprint.

Will my 9mm Hellcat holster fit the .380 Hellcat?

Most holsters designed for the 9mm Hellcat will fit the .380 version, especially if they index on the trigger guard. However, it's crucial to verify compatibility, particularly if your holster indexes on the ejection port.

How does the recoil of the Hellcat 380 compare to the 9mm?

The Hellcat 380 offers notably lower recoil than the 9mm version. This reduction in felt recoil can lead to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy for many shooters.

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