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Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp Review

Get the Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp here: https://alnk.to/4BHF7HG

Get the Springfield Hellcat Pro here: https://alnk.to/5Fcd0C0

 

Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp Review

The Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp is the latest evolution in Springfield Armory’s popular Hellcat lineup, and after spending some time with it, I can see why it’s turning heads in the concealed carry world. This pistol takes the already impressive Hellcat Pro—a compact 9mm with a class-leading capacity—and adds an integral compensator to tame recoil and muzzle rise. It’s a thoughtful upgrade that makes an already solid everyday carry (EDC) option even more appealing, especially for those who prioritize fast, accurate follow-up shots.

 

First Impressions

Out of the box, the Hellcat Pro Comp feels familiar if you’ve handled its predecessors. It’s still slim at just 1 inch wide, and the 3.7-inch barrel keeps it compact enough to conceal comfortably. The compensator—a single port cut into the top of the barrel and slide—doesn’t add any bulk, which is a big win for an EDC gun. Weighing in at 21 ounces unloaded with the flush-fit magazine, it’s light enough to carry all day without dragging you down. The Melonite finish on the slide and barrel gives it a rugged, no-nonsense look that promises durability, and the adaptive grip texture is a standout—aggressive enough to lock into your hand but not so harsh that it tears up your shirt or skin during carry.

 

Specifications

Here are the key specs for the Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp OSP (Optical Sight Pistol), sourced from Springfield Armory’s official documentation:

  • Caliber: 9mm Luger
  • Barrel Length: 3.7 inches (hammer-forged steel with integral compensator)
  • Overall Length: 6.6 inches
  • Height: 4.8 inches (with flush-fit 15-round magazine); 5.3 inches (with extended 17-round magazine)
  • Width: 1.0 inch
  • Weight: 21.0 oz (unloaded with flush-fit magazine)
  • Slide: Billet-machined steel, Melonite finish, optics-ready (Springfield Micro footprint)
  • Frame: Black polymer with adaptive grip texture, Picatinny rail (2 slots)
  • Sights: Tritium/luminescent front sight, Tactical Rack U-Dot rear sight
  • Capacity: 15+1 rounds (flush-fit magazine); 17+1 rounds (extended magazine included)
  • Trigger: Flat-faced with trigger safety, approximately 6.25 lbs pull (varies slightly by sample)
  • MSRP: $699 (as of March 26, 2025)

The pistol ships with two magazines—a 15-round flush-fit for concealment and a 17-round extended option for extra capacity—along with a soft-sided double-zipper case.

Performance

On the range, the Hellcat Pro Comp shines where it counts. The integral compensator does its job, redirecting gases upward to reduce muzzle flip. Compared to the standard Hellcat Pro, the difference is noticeable, especially with hotter 9mm loads like 115-grain +P rounds. I found myself staying on target more easily during rapid-fire drills, and my groupings tightened up a bit—think consistent 2- to 2.5-inch groups at 15 yards with defensive ammo, which is more than adequate for a carry gun. The recoil impulse still has that micro-9mm snap, but it’s softened just enough to make a difference without turning it into a full-size pistol experience.

The trigger is typical Springfield—smooth take-up, a clean break, and a short reset. It’s not a match-grade trigger by any means, clocking in around 6 pounds, but it’s predictable and perfectly serviceable for defensive shooting. The optics-ready slide is a big plus; I mounted a Holosun 507K (with a slight adapter tweak due to the Springfield Micro footprint), and it co-witnessed nicely with the excellent iron sights. The tritium front dot and U-notch rear are quick to pick up in any light, making this a versatile setup whether you run a red dot or not.

Reliability was flawless over a couple hundred rounds of mixed FMJ and JHP ammo—no malfunctions, no surprises. The magazines load stiffly toward the last few rounds, but the included loading tool helps, and they drop free cleanly when released.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • The compensator genuinely reduces muzzle rise, improving follow-up shot speed.
  • Impressive 15+1 or 17+1 capacity in a slim, concealable package.
  • Optics-ready slide and great iron sights offer flexibility.
  • Adaptive grip texture strikes a perfect balance for control and comfort.
  • Priced competitively at $699 for what you get.

Cons:

  • The trigger could be lighter and crisper—some might want an aftermarket upgrade.
  • Compensator adds a bit of noise and backwash for bystanders (though not a dealbreaker).
  • Slide stop is a tad small and not ambidextrous, which might bug lefties or those with bigger hands.

Final Thoughts

The Springfield Hellcat Pro Comp is a refined take on an already proven platform. It’s not a revolutionary leap forward, but it doesn’t need to be—the compensator adds just enough performance to make it stand out in the crowded micro-compact market. If you’re in the market for a concealed carry pistol that balances capacity, shootability, and concealability, this is a top contender. It’s not perfect—the trigger and slide stop could use some love—but for $699, you’re getting a lot of gun for the money. Compared to rivals like the SIG P365 XMacro Comp (12+1 capacity) or Glock 43X (10+1), the Hellcat Pro Comp’s higher capacity and recoil management give it an edge for those who value firepower in a small package.

Would I carry it? Absolutely. It’s earned a spot in my rotation, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a do-it-all EDC pistol with a little extra control. If you’re already a Hellcat fan, the Pro Comp is worth the upgrade; if you’re new to the family, it’s a fantastic place to start.