While the Springfield Armory is one of the well-known gun makers that won't be attending this week's shooting, hunting, outdoor trade show in Las Vegas, that doesn't mean the company has delayed the launch of a new product.
Springfield Armory announced the newly released Hellion last week. Hellion is a new holderless platform with a 5.56x45mm NATO (.223 Remington). It has already caused a stir for its modularity and dexterous layout.
Not everyone sells on a bullfighting system, but it does offer some notable benefits. Unlike most conventional long guns, the stockless type positions the bolt and magazine behind the trigger and into the stock area. The design greatly reduces the overall length of the weapon while still allowing the gun to maintain a barrel that is long enough to achieve effective low-range performance.
Despite being considered a "modern" design, the Pit Bull has stood the test of time. Hellion is based on the internationally validated VHS-2 Bulldog, which the Croatian Armed Forces have used in demanding environments around the world, including Iraq and Africa. Springfield Armory Hellion offers American shooters a semi-automatic version of this combat-proven gun.
"The new semi-automatic Hellion builds on the solid foundation of the Croatian VHS-2 and adapts it to the needs of American shooters," Steve Kramer, vice president of marketing at the Springfield Arsenal, said in a press release. "With Springfield Armory's design changes, Hellion offers American shooters a truly unique and powerful 5.56mm bullfight."
To develop Hellion for the U.S. market, Springfield Armory adopted the original VHS-2 design, which included the ability to feed from an AR-mode magazine, a replaceable AR-mode pistol grip, an M-Lok slot on the handguard, and the addition of six quick-release brackets. The new semi-automatic bullfighting also features a reversible catapult system that does not require additional parts or tools. In addition, Hellion offers a fully nimble set of controls, including a safety device, charging handle, magazine and bolt release, resulting in an ultra-compact 5.56mm that can be fired from either shoulder. Despite its small overall length, it still houses a hammer-forged 16-inch barrel with a torsion ratio of 1:7 inches.
The Springfield Armory also touted the fact that Hellion was perfect for shooters. This includes the use of a five-position foldable stock as well as a two-position adjustable gas system. Hellion is also preparing to receive a variety of optics on the top strip of the Picatinny rail, which also integrates a set of flip-up sights. It is also designed to get information from the AR Patterns magazine.
Hellion is now available at select retailers with 30-round Magpul PMAG and Bravo Company USA BCMGUNFIGHTER Mod 3 pistol grips. The MSRP is $1,999.