{"id":1363,"date":"2023-08-15T12:05:20","date_gmt":"2023-08-15T12:05:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=1363"},"modified":"2023-08-15T12:05:20","modified_gmt":"2023-08-15T12:05:20","slug":"review-new-hellion-20-and-18-variants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=1363","title":{"rendered":"Review: New Hellion 20\u201d and 18\u201d Variants"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"player-inline-wrapper no-margin-top\">\n<div class=\"video-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<iframe class=\"player-inline\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/853154103?h=b70a17eb95&amp;api=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen\" allowfullscreen=\"\"><\/iframe><\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"byline\">By <a class=\"byline-author ajax-home\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/author\/scott-conditt\/\">Scott Conditt<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dropcap\">S<\/span>pringfield Armory offered bullpup fans a great new option when they dropped the Hellion in January of 2022. A descendant in design from the VHS-2 rifle that has served in the hands of Croatian Armed Forces around the world, the original 16\u201d-barreled model of the Hellion makes for a 5.56mm that is a mere 28.25\u201d in overall length at its shortest with the five-position buttstock collapsed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-45975\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-20-inch-hellion-review.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-20-inch-hellion-review-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-20-inch-hellion-review-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-20-inch-hellion-review-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-20-inch-hellion-review-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">If you like the Hellion, but wished for a longer barrel, Springfield Armory is now offering two new models that may be of interest: one with an 18\u2033 barrel and a second with a 20\u2033 barrel and bayonet lug (shown).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>This sleek form factor made it highly maneuverable as a formidable CQB-style firearm while also retaining all of the desirable characteristics of a full-size carbine. This is the primary advantage of a bullpup-pattern firearm with the action located in the buttstock area and behind the trigger.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Foundation<\/h2>\n<p>Now, some may say, \u201cleave good enough alone\u201d when it comes to the development of new designs on tried-and-true platforms that have satisfied the original goals. But if there\u2019s one thing I\u2019ve learned working in this industry for a few decades now, it\u2019s that the firearms community loves options when it comes to their boomsticks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45976\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review.jpg\" alt=\"springfield armory 18-inch hellion review\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-armory-18-inch-hellion-review-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The new 18\u2033-barreled version of the Hellion offers the same solid foundation of features that made the original gun so popular. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>And on that subject, Springfield Armory has done just that for Hellion fans by offering two new variants of the rifle  \u2014  one with an 18\u201d barrel and another with a 20\u201d tube. And while both options are cool, the latter doubles down on the badassery by literally bringing a knife to the gunfight with a detachable bayonet option. Yes, you read that right.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Diving right in, let\u2019s start by covering all of the tried-and-true features of the Hellion that have pleased bullpup fans and have remained the same in these two new models from the original 16\u201d version release of the Hellion.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45977\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release.jpg\" alt=\"springfield hellion 20-inch bolt release\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-bolt-release-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ambidextrous controls are one of the hallmarks of the Hellion line. The 18\u2033 and 20\u2033 models continue this tradition. Shown is the ambidextrous bolt release on the 20\u2033 Hellion.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>First off, all of the Hellion models are running on a smooth and reliable short-stroke gas piston system. The piston system always runs exceptionally clean in my experience and also helps to ensure low maintenance requirements and longevity when it comes to wear and tear on internal components and barrels.<\/p>\n<p>You also receive a full suite of completely ambidextrous controls, including the safety selector and non-reciprocating charging handle, as well as a reversible ambidextrous option when it comes to the ejection port. The ambi ejection port feature is one that I really thought was neat from the first iteration of the gun, and is adjustable for either right or left-handed ejection without requiring any special tools or extra parts.<\/p>\n<p><em>[For more information, read <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/how-to-reverse-the-5-56mm-hellion-bullpup-ejection-system\/\">How to Reverse the 5.56mm Hellion Bullpup Ejection System here<\/a>.]<\/em><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45978\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip.jpg\" alt=\"springfield 20-inch hellion pistol grip\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-20-inch-hellion-pistol-grip-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Both of the new Hellion rifles use AR-compatible pistol grips. The highly-respected BCM GUNFIGHTER Mod 3 grip is standard. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Hellion line-up includes a unique five-point adjustable buttstock, which is a nice standout feature when it comes to bullpup designs that usually don\u2019t afford that option. A two-position adjustable gas regulator that features a \u201cnormal\u201d and \u201csuppressed\u201d mode selector for those considering suppression is also offered throughout the line.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, all of the models include some truly robust built-in, flip-up iron sights that are integrated right into the top of the Picatinny rail. They do not obscure your view when they are down, and to deploy them you simply engage the spring-loaded buttons to rapidly flip them up and automatically lock them in place. The rear sight peep features multiple distance apertures that you can select depending on what engagement distances you may be shooting.<\/p>\n<p><em>[Catch the article <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/how-to-use-hellion-iron-sights\/\">How Do You Use the Hellion\u2019s Iron Sights here<\/a>.]<\/em><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45979\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion.jpg\" alt=\"m-lok attachment points on springfield 20-inch hellion\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/m-lok-attachment-points-on-springfield-20-inch-hellion-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span class=\"nowrap\">M-Lok<\/span> compatible attachment points offer a great deal of flexibility for the attachment of a white light or other accessories. QD sockets for slings are also standard on the Hellion.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The bolt lever release is located to the rear of the magazine well and the mag release. Having spent most of my training time on traditional carbines, I am not ashamed to share that this is the one feature difference from my more traditional carbine collection that took me the longest to retrain myself to engage when shooting the Hellion. But once you get a handle on it, smooth operation and engagement just becomes a matter of repetition and training.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking of shooting the Hellion and one of the most enjoyable factors that has not changed between all of the models that are now available? The recoil impulse, or rather the lack thereof, is ridiculously soft when shooting all three models of the gun.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Going Long<\/h2>\n<p>Now, to spotlight the differences between the new 18\u201d and 20\u201d models. Beyond the obvious extended lengths of the barrels and negligible weight differences, to be honest, I was happy to see that not much else was altered, simply because it all works.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45980\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion.jpg\" alt=\"20 inch barrel on hellion\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/20-inch-barrel-on-hellion-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The longer 20\u2033 barrel provides improved bullet velocity and energy while also allowing for the attachment of a bayonet. Note the ribbed exterior profile and bayonet lug.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The increase in muzzle velocity from the increased length of the barrels is inherently a bonus, without making the firearms significantly less maneuverable. I found the weight difference between the 18\u201d and 20\u201d barely noticeable.<\/p>\n<div class=\"newsletter inline\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"display: none;\" class=\"logo-tal-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/themes\/thearmorylife\/img\/logo-tal-tm-icon.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Live The Armory Life.<\/strong> The latest content straight to your inbox plus an automatic entry to each of our <a class=\"ajax-giveaways\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/giveaways\/\"><strong>monthly gun\u00a0giveaways!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Here are the specs: The 18\u201d barrel model measures in at an overall length of 30.25\u2033 at the shortest and 31.75\u2033 with the buttstock fully extended. It features a CMV, Melonite-coated barrel with a 1:7\u201d twist, and the carbine weighs 8 lbs., 3 oz.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45981\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet.jpg\" alt=\"springfield hellion bayonet\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-bayonet-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Springfield Armory will soon offer a bayonet that mounts to the 20\u2033 Hellion. The bayonet is an excellent knife and tool that comes with a very functional sheath.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The 20\u201d variant features a 20\u2033 CMV barrel with a Melonite coating, and a 1:7\u201d twist. Weight of the carbine is 8 lbs., 6 oz., and it has an overall measurement ranging from 32.25\u2033 to 33.75\u2033. The barrel of the 20\u201d model is unique, however, in that it is ribbed to aid in dissipating heat. Another really cool feature of the 20\u201d gun is that it has an integrated bayonet lug that is true to the original design.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking of the original design, the 20\u201d Hellion is actually configured very closely to the original Croatian VHS-D2, a designated marksman variant of the VHS design. This barrel length and configuration along with the bayonet lug brings the Hellion 20\u201d very close to this really cool VHS variant  \u2014  apart from its semi-auto-only operation, of course.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Specifications<\/h2>\n<p>Here are the specs on the new Hellion rifles:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th\/>\n<th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Hellion 18\u2033<\/th>\n<th class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Hellion 20\u2033<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Chambering<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">5.56 NATO\/.223<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">5.56 NATO\/.223<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Barrel Length<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">18\u2033<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">20\u2033<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Overall Length<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">30.25\u2033 \u2014 31.75\u2033<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">32.25\u2033 \u2014 33.75\u2033<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Weight<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">8 lbs 3 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">8 lbs 6 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Sights<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Flip-up irons &amp; Picatinny rail<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Flip-up irons &amp; Picatinny rail<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Stock<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">5-position collapsible<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">5-position collapsible<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Action<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Semi-auto<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Semi-auto<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Finish<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Black<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Black<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Capacity<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">30 (one magazine included)<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">30 (one magazine included)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>MSRP<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">$2,016<\/td>\n<td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">$2,031<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Range Time<\/h2>\n<p>Shooting at the range was a lot of fun. The bullpup design really makes for a pleasant and soft impulse, which is refreshing. You get a great sense of enhanced control and diminished muzzle rise when shooting this rifle versus most traditional carbines, and if you are an avid <span class=\"nowrap\">AR-15<\/span> shooter like myself it\u2019s neat to mix it up with a different flavor.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized flush\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45982\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet.jpg.webp 933w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-533x800.jpg.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-267x400.jpg.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-768x1152.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-600x900.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet.jpg\" alt=\"springfield hellion 20 inch model with bayonet\" width=\"840\" height=\"1260\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet.jpg 933w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-533x800.jpg 533w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-267x400.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-20-inch-model-with-bayonet-600x900.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Hellion was tested on the range with the mounted bayonet with Remington ammo. Both the 18\u2033 and 20\u2033 guns were completely reliable.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>I loaded up a mag full of Remington UMC Centerfire Rifle .223 55-grain ammo and shot steel from 50 yards away using both an Eotech LPVO and EXPS2 Holosight on the Hellions. <\/p>\n<p><em>[Be sure to read <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/best-lpvo-scopes-for-the-hellion\/\">Best LPVO Scopes for the Hellion<\/a> if you need a good optic for your rifle.]<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Straight away, switching between the 18\u201d and 20\u201d back-to-back, I really enjoyed both and they felt very comparable. However, if I had to choose a personal favorite for a fun range session, shooting the 20\u201d variant with a bayonet affixed to the end was a hoot if only for style points.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-45983\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel.jpg\" alt=\"springfield hellion 18 inch barrel\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/springfield-hellion-18-inch-barrel-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 18\u2033 barrel model of the Hellion retains a light weight and compact size while offering a measurable increase in bullet velocity and energy.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The bayonet, which will be available soon on the Springfield Armory Store, easily fit onto the very secure lug, and while firing a few mags though the 20\u201d rifle with it attached, it did not interfere with firing whatsoever. I definitely had to clean some carbon off the bayonet when I took it off, but if you\u2019re not getting your tools dirty it means you aren\u2019t using them.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>My key takeaway from these two newly dropped Hellions is that there is truly something for everybody now in this line. If you want an ultra-streamlined and compact bullpup for CQB work, both the 16\u201d and 18\u201d variants are exceptional options, with the 18\u201d offering a bit of increase in muzzle velocity with a minimal increase in size and weight. The 20\u201d also affords the increase in the velocity category, along with the ribbed barrel for more rapid cooldown and the bayonet lug for some sharp accessorizing potential.<\/p>\n<p>If you are looking to pick up a bullpup, the Hellion line gives you a great platform at the heart of each variation, and the choice of barrel length is yours depending on what your use case and style may be.<\/p>\n<p>Regardless of which one you choose to test out or take to the range next, I think you\u2019ll be pleased with the performance no matter the model because one thing is consistent between them all: they\u2019re a hell of a lot of fun to run.<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Note: Please be sure to check out The Armory Life Forum, where you can comment about our daily articles, as well as just talk guns and gear. Click the \u201cGo To Forum Thread\u201d link below to jump in!<\/em><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-forum-thread hide-share\"><span>Join the Discussion<\/span><\/h5>\n<p class=\"forum-thread-button-wrapper hide-share\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/forum\/threads\/15903\/\">Go to forum thread<\/a><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-featured hide-share\"><span>Featured in this video<\/span><\/h5>\n<section class=\"featured hide-share grid-two\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-hellion \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/hellion-series\/hellion-rifles\/hellion-556-18-inch-rifle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-556nato\">556<sup>NATO<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture loading=\"lazy\" style=\"\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/HL918556B-2.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/HL918556B-2.png\" alt=\"Hellion\u2122 18&quot;\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>Hellion\u2122 <span>18&#8243;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-hellion \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/hellion-series\/hellion-rifles\/hellion-556-20-inch-rifle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-556nato\">556<sup>NATO<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture loading=\"lazy\" style=\"\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/HL920556B-1.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/HL920556B-1.png\" alt=\"Hellion\u2122 20&quot;\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>Hellion\u2122 <span>20&#8243;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/section>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/hellion-20-and-18-variants-review\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Scott Conditt Springfield Armory offered bullpup fans a great new option when they dropped the Hellion in January of 2022. A descendant in design from the VHS-2 rifle that has served in the hands of Croatian Armed Forces around the world, the original 16\u201d-barreled model of the Hellion makes for a 5.56mm that is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1364,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1363","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1363","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1363"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1363\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1364"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1363"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1363"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1363"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}