I’m diving into a fascinating comparison between two popular firearms: the Glock 26 Vs Springfield Hellcat.
As a professional shooter, I’ve had the unique opportunity to test both guns in the field. Trust me, it’s been an interesting journey figuring out which one edges out as the winner.
Both of these firearms have their fan bases, and for good reasons. They’re designed for concealed carry, making them favorites for self-defense.
So, let’s break down each gun, look at their specs, and see how they perform.
| Feature | Glock 26 | Hellcat |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | 9mm Luger |
| Magazine Capacity | Standard 13 rounds | 11 + 1, 13 + 1 (extended mag) |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3 inches |
| Weight (No Mag) | 21.34 oz | 18.3 oz (w/ flush mag) |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6 inches |
| Height | 5.04 inches (incl. Magazine) | 4.12 inches |
| Width | 1.26 inches | 0.88 inches |
Overview of Glock 26
The Glock 26 is a subcompact powerhouse in the world of concealed carry. Known for its reliability and versatility, it’s a go-to choice for many.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity; Standard: 10
- Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
- Length (Overall): 6.42 inches
- Slide Length: 6.26 inches
- Width (Overall): 1.30 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height Including Magazine: 4.17 inches
Overview of Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat, a relatively new contender in the subcompact arena, claims the title of the highest capacity micro-compact 9mm in the world. It’s designed to offer maximum capacity without sacrificing concealability.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: Standard: 11 + 1
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Length: 6 inches
- Height: 4.12 inches
- Width: 0.88 inches
- Weight (Standard): 18.3 ounces
Features Comparison of Glock 26 VS Springfield Hellcat
1. Barrel Length and Accuracy
Glock 26
The Glock 26 has a barrel length of 3.43 inches, a bit longer than some competitors.
In my testing, this slight increase in barrel length contributed to better accuracy at mid to longer ranges for a subcompact. Its Safe Action® system ensures consistent trigger pull, enhancing accuracy.
While shooting, the Glock’s barrel length, combined with its robust build, provided a solid platform for precise shots, especially when firing rapidly.
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat, with a 3-inch barrel, is designed for concealability and ease of carry. During field tests, the Hellcat demonstrated commendable accuracy for its size, which is impressive given its compact barrel.
The flat face trigger, although heavier, did not significantly detract from accuracy. Despite its shorter barrel, the Hellcat performed well in close-quarters scenarios, where its size could be a significant advantage.
Winner
Comparing the two, the Glock 26 slightly edges out the Hellcat in terms of barrel length and the resulting accuracy at longer distances.
The Glock’s additional .43 inches provides a marginal but noticeable advantage in stabilizing shots. Therefore, for accuracy, especially under varied shooting conditions, the Glock 26 takes the win compared to the Springfield Hellcat.
2. Weight and Handling
Glock 26
The Glock 26 weighs 19.72 oz without a magazine, making it a solid but manageable firearm for its size.
With its weight, I found the Glock 26 offered a good balance in hand, which helped mitigate recoil and maintain control during rapid firing sessions. The weight contributes to its handling, providing a sense of stability and making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat’s standard weight is 18.3 oz, making it lighter than the Glock 26. This reduced weight enhances the Hellcat’s portability and comfort during extended carry periods.
In testing, the Hellcat’s lighter frame, combined with its ergonomic design, made it exceptionally easy to handle, especially for shooters with smaller hands. However, the lighter weight did make recoil management slightly more challenging compared to heavier models.
Winner
When considering weight and handling, the Springfield Hellcat emerges as the winner compared to the Glock 26.
The Hellcat’s lighter weight, without significantly compromising on handling and control, offers an optimal balance for everyday carry. It provides an excellent combination of comfort and performance, especially in scenarios where agility and quick response are paramount.
3. Ergonomics and Comfort
Glock 26
The Glock 26’s design includes a wider grip that provides a substantial feel in the hand, which, during testing, contributed to a more controlled shooting experience.
Its rounded edges and familiar Glock ergonomics make it comfortable for extended use. However, the slightly bulkier frame may not suit all hand sizes, particularly those with smaller hands, which can affect drawing and concealment under certain clothing.
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat boasts an impressively slim profile for a double-stack 9mm, enhancing concealability and comfort, especially for those with smaller hands.
Its grip texture and ergonomics are designed to offer a secure hold, even in rapid-fire scenarios. During my field tests, the Hellcat felt exceptionally natural and easy to maneuver, making it a standout for everyday carry, particularly in discreet or deep concealment situations.
Winner
When it comes to ergonomics and comfort, the Springfield Hellcat takes the lead compared to the Glock 26. Its slim design and thoughtful grip texturing offer a level of comfort and ease of use that is particularly noticeable in conceal carry and extended shooting sessions.
The Hellcat’s design shows a keen understanding of the need for balance between firepower and comfort in concealed carry firearms.
Pros & Cons of Glock 26
Pros
- Reliable performance under various conditions
- Extensive aftermarket support
- Versatile magazine compatibility
- Proven track record over decades
Cons
- Heavier
Pros & Cons of Springfield Hellcat
Pros
- High capacity in a micro-compact frame
- Comes with night sights as standard
- Slim profile enhances concealability
- Ergonomic design suitable for various hand sizes
Cons
- Heavier trigger pull which may affect rapid fire accuracy
Similarities between Glock 26 & Springfield Hellcat
- Both chambered in 9mm
- Aimed at concealed carry market
- Feature polymer frames for reduced weight
- Equipped with accessory rails for attachments
Differences between Glock 26 & Springfield Hellcat
- Glock 26 has a wider and slightly longer frame
- Hellcat offers higher magazine capacity in a slimmer profile
- Glock 26 enjoys vast aftermarket customization options
- Hellcat comes standard with night sights; Glock does not
- Glock has a slightly longer barrel length
- Hellcat is designed with a more aggressive grip texture
- Glock 26’s weight is more without a magazine
- Hellcat features a more modern aesthetic design
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and consideration of both the Glock 26 and the Springfield Hellcat, making a decision wasn’t easy due to the unique strengths each firearm presents.
However, based on the criteria that matter most to me in a concealed carry weapon: ergonomics, comfort, weight, and handling, the Springfield Hellcat slightly edges out as the winner in my book.
What swayed my decision was the Hellcat’s exceptional balance of high capacity and concealability, paired with its ergonomic design.
FAQ’s
Is the Hellcat a safe gun?
Yes, the Hellcat is a safe gun. It features a primary manual safety built into the trigger, which is effective when the finger is kept off the trigger.
Is Hellcat good for pocket carry?
Yes, the Hellcat is suitable for pocket carry. It is compact and can be comfortably carried, especially with the various concealed carry options available.
Is the Hellcat accurate?
Yes, the springfield Hellcat is accurate, with testing showing groups generally averaging between 2 and 3 inches with different ammo brands.
