I’m excited to share my experience testing two of the market’s most talked-about guns: the Springfield Hellcat Pro Vs FN Reflex.
As a professional shooter, I’ve had the chance to take these firearms out in the field and put them through their paces.
I will break down each gun’s specs, handling, and overall performance in this article.
| Feature | Springfield Hellcat Pro | FN Reflex |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches | 3.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 6 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Weight | 18.3 ounces | 18.4 ounces |
| Mag Capacity | 11 + 1 | 10 or 11/15 Rd. |
| Operation | Striker-fired | Internal Hammer Fired SAO |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5 pounds | 3.5 pounds |
Springfield Hellcat Pro
The Springfield Hellcat Pro is a compact powerhouse designed for concealed carry without compromising firepower.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 11 + 1
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Overall Length: 6 inches
- Height: 4.12 inches
- Width: 0.88 inches
- Weight (Standard): 18.3 ounces with flush magazine
- Safeties: Trigger lever, striker-pin block
FN Reflex
The FN Reflex, a sleek and modern firearm, is all about precision and adaptability.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Operation: Internal Hammer Fired SAO
- Mag Capacity: 10 or 11/15 Rd.
- Weight: 18.4 oz.
- Barrel Length: 3.3 inches
- Overall Length: 6.2 inches
Features Comparison: Springfield Hellcat Pro Vs FN Reflex
1. Barrel Length and Handling
Springfield Hellcat Pro
The Springfield Hellcat Pro, boasting a 3.7-inch barrel, exemplifies exceptional stability and control. In my extensive field tests, the longer barrel significantly reduced muzzle flip, enhancing both accuracy and the ease of quick, successive shots.
This is particularly beneficial in scenarios requiring rapid response. The barrel’s length, while longer, is masterfully balanced to maintain concealability, making it a formidable choice for those prioritizing precision without sacrificing the convenience of concealed carry.
FN Reflex
The FN Reflex, with its 3.3-inch barrel, provides a compact and agile shooting experience. During testing, its shorter barrel contributed to a more noticeable snap in recoil, requiring a bit more finesse and control for steady rapid fire.
This compactness, while advantageous for certain aspects of concealed carry, does slightly compromise on stability during quick shooting sequences. However, it still holds its ground as a reliable and precise firearm, suitable for users who prefer a more compact design.
Winner
In comparison, the Springfield Hellcat Pro, with its added barrel length, offers superior handling, especially noticeable when engaging in rapid firing.
This edge in stability and control, when compared to the FN Reflex, makes the Hellcat Pro the winner in this category.
2. Trigger Mechanism and Feel
Springfield Hellcat Pro
The trigger of the Hellcat Pro is designed for predictability and precision. With a 5.5-pound pull
and a notably crisp break, it offers a consistent and reliable shooting experience. The reset is notably short and distinct, facilitating swift follow-up shots.
This consistency in trigger response not only enhances the shooting experience but also aids in building muscle memory, crucial for high-stakes situations. Its predictability and tactile feedback make it an excellent choice for shooters who value control and consistency in their trigger mechanism.
FN Reflex
The FN Reflex’s trigger, characterized by its hammer-fired mechanism, breaks at approximately 3.5 pounds. This lighter pull, though slightly longer than that of the Hellcat Pro, provides a smooth and rapid firing experience.
The adjustment to this trigger feel might require some acclimatization but once mastered, it offers a quick and responsive shooting experience.
The trigger’s design is suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and faster action, making it a strong contender in its category.
Winner
Comparatively, the Springfield Hellcat Pro stands out in this feature against the FN Reflex. Its predictable and tactile trigger mechanism provides an enhanced sense of control and accuracy, crucial in scenarios where every shot counts.
This makes it the winner in the trigger mechanism category.
3. Ergonomics and Concealability
Springfield Hellcat Pro
Ergonomically, the Hellcat Pro is a triumph. Its grip design is thoughtfully crafted to fit a wide range of hand sizes comfortably, ensuring a secure and confident hold.
This ergonomic excellence extends to its magazine release and overall handling, which remain accessible and intuitive even in high-stress situations.
Despite its slightly larger frame for better ergonomics, the Hellcat Pro maintains a profile that is still highly conducive to concealed carry, striking an admirable balance between comfort, control, and concealability.
FN Reflex
The FN Reflex introduces a unique ergonomic experience with its sleeved magazine design. This feature offers a comfortable grip and allows for a versatile handling experience, especially with the option of using different magazine sizes.
However, when compared to the Hellcat Pro, the grip, particularly with the larger magazine, becomes slightly more conspicuous when concealed.
This factor might influence the choice of users who prioritize absolute concealability alongside ergonomic comfort.
Winner
Comparing the two, the Springfield Hellcat Pro excels in ergonomics and concealability. Its well-considered design caters to a variety of hand sizes without compromising its concealability, making it the more advantageous choice in this category against the FN Reflex.
Pros & Cons of Springfield Hellcat Pro
Pros
- Excellent balance and handling
- Predictable trigger pull
- Good ergonomic design
- Effective sight system for quick targeting
Cons
- Higher price point
Pros & Cons of FN Reflex
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Hammer-fired operation for a smooth trigger pull
- Versatile magazine capacity options
- Good sight system for precision shooting
Cons
- Slightly snappier recoil
Similarities Between Springfield Hellcat Pro & FN Reflex
- Both chambered in 9mm Luger
- Designed for concealed carry
- Offer good sight systems for accuracy
- Red dot compatible
- Durable and reliable for everyday carry
Differences Between Springfield Hellcat Pro & FN Reflex
- Hellcat Pro has a 3.7-inch barrel, while Reflex has a 3.3-inch barrel
- Hellcat Pro uses a striker-fired mechanism, Reflex is hammer-fired
- Hellcat Pro’s weight is 18.3 ounces, Reflex is 18.4 ounces
- Reflex offers a variable magazine capacity (10/11/15 rounds)
- Hellcat Pro has a trigger safety and striker-pin block, Reflex operation is SAO
- Hellcat Pro is typically more expensive than the Reflex
- Hellcat Pro provides a slightly better recoil management
- Reflex’s trigger pull is lighter compared to Hellcat Pro
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Springfield Hellcat Pro and the FN Reflex, I’ve reached a conclusion.
Both firearms are exceptional in their own rights, offering unique features suitable for various preferences and needs. However, when it comes to overall performance, one of them edges out as my top choice.
In most comparisons, the Springfield Hellcat Pro emerged as the winner. Its superior barrel length and handling, coupled with its predictable trigger mechanism and excellent ergonomics, make it a standout choice.
FAQ’s
Does Springfield Hellcat Pro have a safety?
Yes, the Springfield Hellcat Pro is designed with safety in mind, featuring a manual safety that offers a balance between concealability and capacity.
Does the FN reflex have a safety?
Yes, the FN Reflex has multiple redundant safeties, including an internal hammer, contributing to its smooth and refined trigger operation.
What is special about the Springfield Hellcat?
The Springfield Hellcat is notable for being the highest capacity micro-compact 9mm in the world, combining a small frame with significant firepower.
What is the standard sight system of the Hellcat Pro pistol?
The Hellcat Pro features Tritium U-Dot sights, with a high visibility tritium & luminescent front sight and a Tactical Rack U-Dot rear sight for easy target acquisition.
