I’m putting two of the most talked-about guns head-to-head: the Springfield Hellcat Vs Shield Plus. I’ve spent some quality time with these firearms, testing them in various conditions to see which one comes out on top.
I aim to provide you with an honest, hands-on comparison so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting, this article will shed some light on these two amazing guns.
| Feature | Springfield Hellcat | Shield Plus |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm |
| Capacity | 11 + 1 | 10+1, 13+1 |
| Barrel Length | 3 inches | 3.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 6 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Height | 4.12 inches | 4.6 inches |
| Width | 0.88 inches | 1.1 inches |
| Weight | 18.3 ounces | 1 lb., 3.7 oz. |
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat burst onto the scene in 2019, grabbing attention for its compact size coupled with a surprisingly generous capacity. It’s a gun that packs a punch in a small package.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 11 + 1
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Overall Length: 6 inches
- Height: 4.12 inches
- Width: 0.88 inches
- Weight: 18.3 ounces (with flush mag)
- Safeties: Trigger lever, striker-pin block
Shield Plus
The Shield Plus is a revamp of Smith & Wesson’s popular Shield line. It’s a firearm that matches the Hellcat’s capacity while slightly altering the grip size for a different feel.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10+1 rds., 13+1 rds.
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Overall Length: 6.1 inches
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Height: 4.6 inches
- Weight: 1 lb., 3.7 oz.
- Finish: Armornite, black (stainless steel)
- Sights: Steel; three white dots
- Trigger: 5 lbs., 6 oz. (tested)
Features Comparison: Springfield Hellcat vs Shield Plus
1. Grip Texture and Comfort
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat boasts an aggressively textured grip designed to ensure a steadfast hold in various conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial in challenging environments like rain or snow, where a secure grip is paramount.
The texture, reminiscent of stippling, provides a tactile surface that anchors the firearm in the hand.
However, this assertive grip can become somewhat taxing during lengthy range sessions. For shooters engaging in extended practice, the texture may lead to some degree of hand fatigue or discomfort, a small trade-off for its otherwise reliable grip.
Shield Plus
On the flip side, the Shield Plus by Smith & Wesson offers a grip with a medium texture. This choice reflects a well-considered balance, aiming to provide sufficient traction without the harshness of an overly aggressive grip.
During my extensive testing, this texture proved to be noticeably more comfortable, particularly over long periods of shooting. The nuanced balance of the texture on the Shield Plus caters well to prolonged use, offering enough grip to maintain control without the abrasive feel that can come with more aggressive textures.
This feature particularly stands out during all-day range activities or training sessions, where comfort becomes as crucial as performance.
Winner
In the realm of grip texture and comfort, the Shield Plus holds a distinct edge over the Hellcat. Its medium grip texture hits the sweet spot between providing the necessary grip and ensuring comfort, making it the preferable choice for shooters who value a blend of performance and prolonged handling ease.
2. Overall Ergonomics and Handling
Springfield Hellcat
The Springfield Hellcat, with its compact and streamlined design, offers significant advantages in terms of concealability and ease of carry.
This gun is tailored for those prioritizing a highly concealable firearm without compromising on capacity. Its dimensions, though compact, might present a snug fit for individuals with larger hands, potentially impacting grip comfort and control. Despite this, its small size does not detract from its overall functionality.
The Hellcat remains a solid choice for concealed carry, offering a blend of capacity and concealability. However, for users with larger hands or those seeking a more relaxed grip, the Hellcat’s compact nature might be a limiting factor.
Shield Plus
The Shield Plus, in contrast, exhibits a thoughtful evolution in design with a slightly enlarged grip. This modification enhances the handling experience, making the gun more accommodating and comfortable for a broader spectrum of hand sizes.
The increase in grip size contributes to a more natural and secure feel when holding the firearm, enhancing overall control and confidence in handling. This ergonomic improvement is particularly noticeable for shooters with larger hands, who might find the Shield Plus more fitting and comfortable compared to its predecessor and the Hellcat.
The slight increase in size does not significantly compromise the gun’s concealability, maintaining its suitability for concealed carry while offering improved handling characteristics.
Winner
In the category of ergonomics and handling, the Shield Plus outshines the Hellcat. Its design, which includes a marginally larger grip, caters to a more diverse range of hand sizes and preferences.
This enhancement in ergonomics makes the Shield Plus a more versatile and comfortable option for a wider array of shooters without sacrificing the concealability that is key in the micro-compact segment.
3. Sight and Accuracy
Springfield Hellcat
The Hellcat comes equipped with a distinctive sighting system featuring a tritium front sight paired with a U-notch rear sight. This configuration is designed for rapid target acquisition, an essential aspect in self-defense scenarios.
The tritium front sight offers enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, a critical feature for a defensive handgun. However, this sight setup might require an adjustment period for shooters more accustomed to traditional sight arrangements.
During my testing, the Hellcat’s sights proved to be competent, allowing for precise shot placement. The U-notch rear sight, while not universally preferred, offers a clear sight picture and can be particularly effective in quick, reactive shooting scenarios.
The combination of these sights on the Hellcat contributes to its overall accuracy, making it a reliable choice for both self-defense and recreational shooting.
Shield Plus
The Shield Plus, in comparison, is outfitted with a classic steel three-dot sight system. This type of sight is widely familiar to many shooters and is known for its straightforward and intuitive use. In my field tests, the three-dot setup of the Shield Plus demonstrated its effectiveness in providing a clear and easily alignable sight picture.
This traditional sight arrangement is particularly advantageous for shooters who are already familiar with or prefer this style. The intuitive nature of the three-dot system facilitates quick and accurate shot alignment, enhancing the shooter’s ability to acquire targets swiftly and accurately.
The sight system on the Shield Plus plays a significant role in its overall accuracy, making it an appealing option for a wide range of shooting applications.
Winner
When it comes to sight and accuracy, the Shield Plus slightly surpasses the Hellcat. Its conventional three-dot sight system offers a more user-friendly and familiar experience, particularly for shooters who have experience with this type of sighting.
The intuitive and straightforward nature of the three-dot sights on the Shield Plus provides an edge in quick target acquisition and accuracy, making it the more favorable option in this aspect.
Pros & Cons of Springfield Hellcat
Pros
- Compact and easy to conceal.
- Aggressive grip texture ensures a firm hold.
- Tritium front sight for better visibility.
Cons
- Grip may feel too aggressive over time.
Pros & Cons of Shield Plus
Pros
- Improved grip size for better handling.
- Comfortable medium grip texture.
- Redesigned flat-face trigger for smoother pull.
Cons
- Slightly larger size may affect concealability.
Similarities between Springfield Hellcat & Shield Plus
- Both have a 9mm caliber.
- Similar overall length and height.
- Neither base model is optic-ready.
- Both offer extended and flush magazines.
- Comparable weight and size, ideal for concealed carry.
- Both pistols feature notable safety mechanisms.
- Designed for reliability and durability.
Differences between Springfield Hellcat & Shield Plus
- Hellcat has a slightly shorter barrel and overall length.
- Shield Plus has a slightly wider grip.
- Hellcat’s aggressive grip texture vs. Shield Plus’s medium texture.
- Different sight designs: Tritium front, U-notch rear (Hellcat) vs. Steel three-dot (Shield Plus).
- Hellcat’s slightly heavier weight compared to Shield Plus.
- Trigger design varies between the two models.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Springfield Hellcat and the Shield Plus, I’ve reached a conclusion. While each gun has its unique strengths, the Shield Plus emerged as my top pick.
The Shield Plus excels in crucial areas like comfort, ergonomics, and user-friendly features. Its redesigned grip and trigger provide a more comfortable and intuitive shooting experience.
Although the Hellcat impresses with its compact size and high capacity, the overall balance and user experience of the Shield Plus make it a standout choice for me.
FAQ’s
What kind of safety does the Springfield Hellcat have?
The Springfield Hellcat features a trigger lever and striker-pin block safety system, ensuring secure handling.
What is special about the Springfield Hellcat?
The Springfield Hellcat is renowned for being the highest capacity micro-compact 9mm, offering exceptional capacity in a very compact and lightweight design.
How accurate is the Springfield Hellcat?
The Springfield Hellcat typically demonstrates accuracy with groups averaging between 2 and 3 inches using various ammunition brands.
What is the maximum effective range of a Springfield Hellcat?
The Springfield Hellcat can effectively engage targets at distances up to 200 yards, showcasing impressive range for a micro 9mm.
