OPERATION & SAFETY MANUAL

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION INSIDE

Read this manual before handling this firearm. Keep this manual with your firearm and review it before each use.
Do not allow others to handle or fire your firearm until they have read this manual.
Transfer this manual with the firearm upon ownership change.
THIS MANUAL IS FOR HELLCAT® FIREARMS ONLY.
Be a responsible firearm owner. Use it safely, store it securely, and always transfer a firearm responsibly and legally.

DOWNLOAD THIS MANUAL ON OUR WEBSITE: WWW.SPRINGFIELD-ARMORY.COM

Always check website for updated versions of operation & safety manuals
 CONTENTS
Read and Understand this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Magazine Button Reversal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Know Your Firearm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Re assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Safety Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Magazine Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Loaded Chamber Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Points Of Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Safety Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 OSP™ Optics Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Loading/ Preparing To Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Parts Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Firing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Point of Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Unloading/Clearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Trigger Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Malfunction Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Care and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Field Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Disclaimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

NOTE: The information in this manual If you have any questions concerning
applies to all HELLCAT® models regardless information in this manual, call Springfield’s
of caliber unless otherwise noted. Consumer Safety Department at:
(309) 944-5631 for assistance.
2
BEFORE LOADING AND FIRING THIS FIREARM,
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL.
This is an auto loading firearm. It is immediately loaded It is recommended that every person receive instructions
and ready to fire again after each shot until all cartridges from a competent firearms instructor before handling this
loaded in magazine have been fired. The firearm is able or any other firearm.
to fire both with and without the magazine in place. Know and obey all firearms laws and regulations,
REMOVING THE MAGAZINE DOES NOT UNLOAD THE which may vary from city to city and state to state. Do
FIREARM NOR DOES IT ENGAGE A SAFETY. THE FIREARM IS not give a firearm to someone who is not allowed to
NOT UNLOADED UNTIL THE MAGAZINE IS REMOVED AND own a firearm or who may use it for a criminal purpose.
THE CHAMBER IS EMPTY.
Used firearms
ABOUT YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL If you purchased this firearm as a used firearm, have it
This is an instruction booklet on how to operate this inspected and tested by a competent pistolsmith before
firearm with some basic safe handling rules. It does not you use it. Firearms are sometimes altered and may require
attempt to provide information about using a firearm repair before they can be used safely.
to defend yourself, how to hunt, or for competitive or
Store firearms safely in the home
target shooting. It is important to receive training from a
competent firearms instructor prior to engaging in any of Store firearms unloaded, locked and in a secure place.
these activities. The National Rifle Association, your local Obey firearm storage laws. Store firearms and ammunition
or state authorities, or your firearm dealer may provide separately. Because your children may be in other homes
information regarding available instructors or training where firearms are stored, you should show them what to
courses. If you have a license to carry concealed, never do do if they see or find a firearm by showing them the
so without prior instruction from a certified instructor. Using Eddie Eagle video available from the NRA by calling
a firearm for self defense is a complex subject with dangers (703) 267-1000.
and risks for which you must be properly trained. Every OBEY ALL FIREARMS LAWS WHEN BUYING AND
safety rule has a reason behind it - read the rules carefully SELLING FIREARMS. NEVER BUY A FIREARM INTENDING
and understand why each is important for safety. TO TRANSFER IT TO SOMEONE WHO IS PROHIBITED 3
FROM OWNING FIREARMS. NEVER EVER BE A "STRAW
PURCHASER."
 KNOW YOUR FIREARM Striker Block
(Internal)
Loaded Chamber OSP™ Cover Plate
Indicator (OSP Models Only) Rear Sight
Disassembly (Top of Slide)
Front Sight
Lever Slide Stop
Lever
Muzzle

Slide

Dual Captive Recoil

Spring W/ Full Length
Guide Rod (Internal)

Light Rail
or Trigger Guard
Accessory Rail
Thumb Rest

Trigger W/Safety Frame

Magazine Release
Magazine

4
SAFETY RULES
READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE SAFETY RULES
Be A Safe Firearm Owner. • Never point a firearm at any person or thing you do
ACCIDENT (ak´ si dent) N. 1. An unintentional or not intend to shoot. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
unexpected happening that is undesirable or unfortunate, • Be sure you have positively identified your target.
especially one resulting in injury, damage, harm or loss. • ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE
DIRECTION.
Don’t be the cause of an accident. • Do not drop your firearm. Make sure you maintain
A responsible firearm owner is safety minded and always control of your firearm at all times. If it falls, it may
handles firearms in a safe manner by following the basic fire. If you do drop it, unload it and examine it to be
rules of safe shooting and by using common sense in the sure it works correctly. Do not attempt to fire it again
handling of a firearm. until you have completed this safety check.
Store firearms unloaded, locked, and in a secure place. • Never put your hand over the muzzle of the firearm.
Keep keys for locks separate from lock and in a secure • Keep your finger(s) off the trigger and out of the
place away from children. Keep firearms out of reach of trigger guard until you are actually aiming at your
children. You are responsible for children’s safety. target, and made the decision to fire.
• Under no circumstances should the owner of this
Be A Responsible Firearm Owner. firearm allow it to come into possession of or be
• Treat all firearms as if they are loaded at all times. handled by small children or a mentally handicapped
individual.
• Although many safety mechanisms are designed into
your firearm, firearm safety still depends on you being a • DO NOT COVER THE EJECTION PORT WITH YOUR
responsible firearms owner. HANDS WHEN LOADING/UNLOADING YOUR
FIREARM.
5
 BE A RESPONSIBLE FIREARM OWNER!
• Never rely on a firearm’s “safety features” to protect • ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE
you from unsafe firearm handling. A safety is only a DIRECTION.
mechanical device, not a substitute for common sense. • If anything does get into the barrel, remove cartridges,
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you are on target and clean bore immediately before attempting to shoot.
and have made the DECISION to fire. Obstructed barrels can burst and injure you and/or
• Be sure of your target and backstop before you bystanders.
shoot. Ask yourself what your bullet will hit if it • Maintain possession of your firearm at all times when
misses or goes through the target. you are on the firing range or during target practice.
• Before shooting, be sure the barrel is clear of DO NOT ALLOW OTHERS TO HANDLE YOUR FIREARM
obstructions, including excessive oil and grease. UNLESS THAT PERSON IS BEING INSTRUCTED OR
TRAINED.
• Do not let water, snow, mud or other materials enter
the barrel. • DO NOT COVER THE EJECTION PORT WITH YOUR
HANDS WHEN LOADING/UNLOADING YOUR
• Do not pull a firearm toward you by the muzzle. FIREARM.
• Always hold your firearm so you control the direction of
its muzzle in case you fall or stumble.

WARNING
The HELLCAT® pistol, like all firearms, is a dangerous weapon if not
handled properly.
6
BE A SAFE FIREARM OWNER!
ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE
•  • Always keep and carry your firearm with an empty
DIRECTION. chamber until you intend to shoot, so your firearm
• Firearms and alcohol or drugs do not mix. Do not take cannot be fired unintentionally.
them before or during shooting activities. Your vision, •  Firearms should be unloaded when not in use. This
coordination and judgment could be impaired, means both the chamber and magazine are empty.
making firearm handling unsafe. •  When transferring a firearm by hand, always open the
• When taking medication, seek a doctor’s advice to be action and check to assure that it is unloaded prior to
sure you can operate and handle your firearm safely. handing it over to someone.
• Receive training from a competent firearms instructor •  Never take anyone’s word that a firearm is unloaded.
before using any firearm. When receiving a firearm, always open the action and
• Before attempting to shoot, practice operations by check that it is unloaded.
using snap caps (dummy rounds). Become familiar
with the safety features, trigger control, and handling
of the firearm.
• Make sure you maintain control of your firearm at all
times.

7
 BE A SAFE FIREARM OWNER!
• D
 o not try to change your firearm’s trigger pull, IMPORTANT WARNING
because alterations of trigger pull usually affect
sear engagement and might cause accidental firing.
There is no safe way to discharge a firearm in
a home or apartment. Bullets will go through
• Never use a firearm that jams or fails to function
properly. Should this occur, return to Springfield, Inc. walls, floors, furniture, and appliances and
for warranty/repair. still cause serious injury or death to persons
• If your shot sounds weak or underpowered, it could in the house, next door, or outside. Accidental
mean a bullet is in the chamber/bore. The firearm discharges indoors ALWAYS result in
should be immediately unloaded and the chamber/ property damage or personal injury.
bore checked for obstructions before re-firing.
DO NOT "HORSEPLAY" with a firearm. Your firearm
• 
cannot think ...but you can. Firearm safety depends on
you.

WARNING: When you squeeze the trigger, you must expect the firearm to fire. You must take full
responsibility for firing it. Your care can avoid accidental discharge and thereby avoid accidental
injury and death.
8
READ THESE RULES!
• Load firearm only when on range preparing to fire. Never carry any firearm, loaded or unloaded, in your
• 
Unload it before leaving range. pocket, purse or tucked in your belt or waistband.
• Treat every firearm as if it is loaded ... all the time! Use a firearm case or a proper holster.
• Load and unload with the firearm muzzle pointed in a • O
 ld or reloaded ammunition may cause damage to
safe direction. the firearm and/or injure you or others. Use
only clean, dry, original, high-quality, commercially
• Be certain firearm is unloaded before cleaning. manufactured ammunition. Using reloaded
• Completely unload your firearm before storing, ammunition may void the warranty.
travelling, standing it against an object, laying it down,
• ALWAYS REMEMBER, REMOVING THE MAGAZINE
entering a house, car, truck, boat, RV/camper, building,
DOES NOT UNLOAD THE PISTOL NOR DOES IT
or handing it to someone.
ENGAGE A SAFETY.
• Never leave a loaded firearm unattended.
• ALWAYS REMEMBER, THE PISTOL IS NOT
• Tragedy may result if a child finds your firearm and plays UNLOADED UNTIL THE MAGAZINE IS REMOVED AND
with it. Keep every firearm secure. Children do not THE CHAMBER IS EMPTY.
believe firearms can kill.
• ALWAYS REMEMBER, THIS FIREARM IS ABLE TO
• Store firearms and ammunition separately. Both should FIRE WITH OR WITHOUT THE MAGAZINE IN PLACE.
be placed beyond children’s reach.
• DO NOT COVER THE EJECTION PORT WITH YOUR
• Obey all laws regarding the storage and security of HANDS WHEN LOADING/UNLOADING YOUR
firearms in the home. FIREARM.
• Know and obey the laws regarding the transportation
and carrying of firearms.

9
 TREAT EVERY FIREARM AS IF IT IS LOADED ...
ALL THE TIME!
• Many ammunition identifications sound similar. Make • Do not alter or modify your firearm.
sure you use the right caliber/size ammunition in your • Have your firearm serviced regularly by a
firearm. qualified pistolsmith.
• If firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, keep it • Discharging firearms in poorly ventilated areas,
pointed at the target for at least 30 seconds. Remove cleaning firearms, or handling ammunition may result
the magazine before opening the action. Remove the in exposure to lead and other substances known to
cartridge from the chamber. Sometimes slow primer cause birth defects, reproductive harm, cancer and
ignition will cause a “hang fire” and the cartridge will go other serious physical injury. Have adequate ventilation
off after a short pause. at all times. Wash hands thoroughly after firing your
• When group firing, always appoint someone to firearm, after cleaning your firearm, or whenever you
maintain safety control. Obey his/her commands have handled ammunition.
immediately and completely. • Always use quality ammunition.
• While shooter is loading, firing, and unloading, • A
 LWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE
spectators need to remain behind the shooter. DIRECTION.
• Always wear protective glasses when shooting. • DO NOT COVER THE EJECTION PORT WITH YOUR
• Always wear hearing protection when shooting. HANDS WHEN LOADING/UNLOADING YOUR
• Never shoot at hard flat surfaces or water; bullets will FIREARM.
ricochet unpredictably.
Safety and instruction manuals are available from Always wear eye and ear protection when using any
Springfield, Inc. firearm.
10
HANDLING
We want you to be a safe, satisfied firearm owner. Write or call us concerning any items you do not
Before attempting to load this firearm with live understand and/or which might relate to your safety and
ammunition, follow the sequence of operations shown the safe operations of any of our products.
here without ammunition or with snap caps. Springfield, Inc.
By practicing operations with snap caps, you will become Consumer Safety Department
familiar with: 420 West Main Street
Geneseo, IL 61254
• Safety features,
(309) 944-5631
• Trigger control (snap caps) 1-800-680-6866
• Handling of your firearm
As a result, you will be a safer, more confident user when
aiming at your first target.

NOTE: Extensive dry firing can accelerate component

wear/stress. Use snap caps if dry firing on a regular
basis.

WARNING: When you squeeze the trigger,

you must expect the firearm to fire. You must
take full responsibility for firing it. Your care Safety and instruction manuals are available from
can avoid accidental discharge and thereby Springfield, Inc.
avoid accidental injury and death.
11
 LOADED CHAMBER INDICATOR
Your HELLCAT® firearm has a loaded chamber indicator (See Figure 12-1). The indicator allows you to observe whether a cartridge
is in the chamber. When a cartridge is visible in the chamber, the firearm is loaded and ready to fire (See Figure 12-2).

Unloaded Loaded

Figure 12-1 Figure 12-2

WARNING! Even though the chamber is empty there may be cartridges in the magazine. The firearm is not
completely unloaded until the magazine is removed and the chamber is empty.

Never trust a safety. Always assume the firearm is loaded.

12
SAFETY DEVICES
Striker Block Safety - The internal Striker Block Safety is designed to prevent the firearm from firing unless the trigger is depressed.

Trigger Safety - The trigger safety blocks the trigger from moving backward. A lever incorporated into the trigger (See Figure 13-1)
deactivates the safety when completely depressed while pulling the trigger. The trigger can only be pulled if depressed together
with the trigger safety lever (See Figure 13-2).

LEVER

Figure 13-1 Figure 13-2

Safety devices, like all things mechanical, can fail. Safety devices are not a substitute for safe firearm handling.
WARNING Always follow the rules for safe firearm handling. 13
 LOADING/PREPARING TO FIRE
1. Place the EMPTY magazine in the magazine well, Caution: Do not slam or forcefully jam magazine into
located in bottom of firearm grip. Make sure the magazine well.
magazine is EMPTY or you will inadvertently load the 5. Depress the slide stop lever to allow slide to move forward and
firearm. Push firmly enough on bottom of magazine load a cartridge from the magazine into the chamber.
to make sure it is properly seated. A distinctive “click”
6. The loaded chamber indicator will display a loaded cartridge
will confirm the magazine has been properly inserted.
in the chamber (See Figure 12-1).
Pull the slide completely to the rear until it locks back.
7. The firearm is now loaded and ready to fire.
2. Depress magazine release and remove magazine.
Caution: Never load cartridge by hand directly into the
3. Ensure that you are using the proper caliber
chamber.
ammunition for your firearm. Place rim of first
cartridge on front of follower (See Figure 14) then Caution: The firearm is now ready to fire.
push the cartridge down on the follower and slide the NOTE: An alternative method to load the cartridge into the
cartridge under the lips of the magazine completely chamber is to forcefully pull the slide completely to the rear
to the rear. Load successive rounds by pushing and in one motion quickly release it, allowing the slide to slam
cartridge down on previously loaded cartridge. Use forward unimpeded under its own force. (Do not hold the slide
only clean, dry, original, high-quality, commercially as it moves forward. “Riding the slide”
manufactured ammunition. Using reloaded in this manner can cause cartridge to
ammunition may void warranty. jam or misfeed.)
POINT FIREARM IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND KEEP
4.  Caution: Do not cover the ejection
FINGER OFF TRIGGER. Re-insert LOADED magazine port with your hand when loading

FOLLOWER
into magazine well, located in bottom of firearm grip. unloading your firearm.
Push firmly enough on bottom of magazine to make
sure it is properly seated.
14 WARNING Never touch the trigger when loading or unloading the firearm. Figure 14
FIRING Point firearm in a safe
direction at all times.
If you have never fired a firearm before, follow the 5. This Firearm will automatically be ready to fire again
sequence of operations shown here without ammunition after each shot until all cartridges loaded in magazine
or with snap caps. Then load only one cartridge into the have been fired. NOTE: This only applies when there
magazine for your first live ammunition firing. is more than one round in magazine.
1. POINT FIREARM IN A SAFE DIRECTION WHILE 6. When last cartridge has been fired, slide will lock open
KEEPING YOUR FINGER OFF OF THE TRIGGER. and remain to rear.
2. Load cartridge into chamber from magazine following This is an auto loading firearm. It is immediately loaded and
the procedure described on page 14. ready to fire again after each shot until all cartridges loaded
in magazine have been fired. The firearm is able to fire both
CAUTION: THE FIREARM IS NOW READY TO FIRE.
with and without the magazine in place. REMOVING THE
BE PREPARED FOR NOISE AND RECOIL WHEN
MAGAZINE DOES NOT UNLOAD THIS FIREARM NOR
FIREARM FIRES.
DOES IT ENGAGE A SAFETY. THIS FIREARM IS NOT
3. Aim firearm at target by aligning sights (See Figure UNLOADED UNTIL THE MAGAZINE IS REMOVED AND
30-1). THE CHAMBER IS EMPTY.
4. Now lightly place finger on trigger, and slowly
squeeze trigger to fire the firearm. Spent cartridge is
expelled up and to the right.
WARNING: Loading the HELLCAT® by manually
Always wear eye and ear protection when using inserting a round in the chamber is improper
any firearm. and may cause accidental discharge and possible
damage to the extractor. Always load the firearm
Safety and instruction manuals are available from using the magazine. When loading the firearm,
Springfield, Inc. always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
15
 UNLOADING/CLEARING
If slide is already in “locked back” position: (See Figure 16)
CHAMBER MUST
1. POINT FIREARM IN SAFE DIRECTION WHILE BE EMPTY
KEEPING YOUR FINGER OFF OF THE TRIGGER.
2. Press magazine release button to
remove magazine.
3. From above and rear, carefully inspect
chamber to make sure it is empty.
When magazine has been removed and when
chamber is empty, a firearm lock can be installed.
(See Page 31, Figure 31) Firearm can now be safely
stored in a secure place.

CAUTION: Do not cover the ejection port with

your hand when loading/unloading your
firearm.

Figure 16

Firearm is not empty or unloaded until the magazine is removed and the chamber is empty.
WARNING To properly clear a firearm, remove the magazine, then pull slide back and check the chamber.
16
UNLOADING/CLEARING
If slide is forward:
CHAMBER MUST
1. POINT FIREARM IN SAFE DIRECTION WHILE BE EMPTY
KEEPING YOUR FINGER OFF OF THE TRIGGER.
2. Press magazine release button to remove magazine.
3. While holding slide in rearward (open) position,
carefully inspect chamber making sure it is empty
(See Figure 17).
When magazine has been removed and when chamber is
empty, a firearm lock can be installed. (See Page 33, Figure
33) Pistol can now be safely stored in a secure place.

Figure 17

Firearm is not empty or unloaded until the magazine is removed and the chamber is empty.
WARNING Never touch the trigger when loading or unloading the firearm.
17
 MALFUNCTION WARNING!
If cartridge hangs up, jams or binds when being chambered from magazine into chamber, do not attempt to force it into
the chamber by pushing or striking slide.
DO NOT COVER THE EJECTION PORT WITH YOUR HANDS WHEN LOADING/UNLOADING YOUR FIREARM.
NOTE: The HELLCAT® pistol requires A FIRM PROPER GRIP & LUBRICATION to assure reliable function.
1. What to do: 3. Whatever the cause, a jammed cartridge can be
• Firmly hold firearm pointed in a safe direction a dangerous situation.
while keeping your finger off of the trigger. If you have any questions concerning information in
• Remove magazine. this manual, call Springfield’s Consumer Safety
Department at 1-800-680-6866 for assistance.
• Retract the slide to remove cartridge from firearm.
• Do not cover the ejection port with your hands when
loading / unloading your firearm. Store key separately
away from lock
• If the cartridge cannot be removed, retract the slide and out of reach of
and lock it open with slide stop. children.
• Carefully dislodge cartridge.
• If cartridge cannot be removed, lock slide back,
carefully store your firearm and magazines and take it
to a pistolsmith. (USE SUPPLIED TRIGGER LOCK).
Figure 18
2. Most failures to feed or chamber a cartridge are the Always wear eye and ear protection when using any
result of a damaged magazine, improper firearm firearm.
handling or defective ammunition.
Safety and instruction manuals are available from
Springfield, Inc.
Always have firearm pointed in a safe direction.
18 WARNING Failure to obey safety information may result in injury to you or others.
TO ELIMINATE MALFUNCTIONS
• First try changing type/brand of ammunition and/or • Check that magazine spring tension is adequate;
magazine. the spring should hold the follower tightly against
• If changing to another type/brand of ammunition the lips of the magazine.
and/or magazine does not at once result in smooth • Check that magazine lips are free of nicks and burrs
feeding of cartridges from magazine to chamber, the and are not deformed.
following steps should be taken: • Remove excess oil and solvent from all cleaned
• Make certain chamber and magazine are unloaded. components, load magazine and try firearm again.
Magazine should be removed first. Check chamber to WARNING:
WARNING An obstructed, cracked, damaged
be sure it and magazine well are clear of cartridges. barrel or some other damaged part should
• Thoroughly clean magazine, paying particular never be used and the firearm should be returned
attention to removing accumulated residue. to Springfield for inspection.
• Thoroughly clean breech mechanism of firearm.
Use a bristle brush and solvent to remove residue and
fouling from breech face, extractor, chamber and feed
ramp. (See CARE AND CLEANING section for detailed
instruction).

19
 FIELD STRIP
Before performing any cleaning or maintenance, make sure the firearm is completely unloaded (this includes the
magazine and chamber). Wear eye protection.
ALWAYS REMEMBER THE FIREARM IS ABLE TO FIRE WITH OR WITHOUT THE MAGAZINE IN PLACE.

1. POINT FIREARM IN SAFE DIRECTION WHILE KEEPING FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER.
2. Remove magazine and unload firearm.
3. Retract the slide and lock it open by pushing up the
slide stop lever (See Figure 20-1).
NOTE: If step 3 is difficult, use this alternative method
of locking slide to the most rearward position: Place
EMPTY magazine in the magwell, retract slide
completely to the rear until it locks back. Make sure the DISASSEMBLY
LEVER UP
magazine is EMPTY or you will inadvertently load the SLIDE STOP LEVER UP

firearm. Then remove magazine and proceed. Figure 20-1 Figure 20-2

4. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm the firearm is unloaded.

5. Rotate the disassembly lever clockwise to a vertical 12 o’clock position (See Figure 20-2).
Disassembly lever cannot be rotated unless magazine has been removed.

If you disassemble your Springfield Armory® firearm, do so properly. Improper disassembly and/or
WARNING assembly will create unsafe conditions that could result in injury or death, or a firearm that simply
will not work. Don’t take chances. Do not attempt to disassemble this or any other firearm until
you have received training and instructions from a competent pistolsmith.
20
FIELD STRIP
Before performing any disassembly, point firearm in safe direction, make sure the firearm is completely
unloaded (this includes the magazine and chamber). Wear eye protection.
6. Pull the slide slightly to the rear to release the slide NOTE: Trigger will not re-set or release at this point,
stop lever. Then, firmly gripping the slide, allow the but will remain in the most rearward position
slide to slowly move forward until the spring tension (See 21-2). If you move trigger forward you cannot
is released (See Figure 21-1). reassemble pistol.
CAUTION: Slide is under spring tension. Maintain CAUTION: Do not retract and release the striker
control. Do not grip the slide in the area of the allowing it to snap forward as this can damage the
muzzle or ejection port. striker pin safety.
7. While holding the slide, pull the trigger with the Move the complete slide assembly forward and off the
firearm pointed in a safe direction to fully unlock the frame (See Figure 21-2).
slide from the frame.

21
Figure 21-1 Figure 21-2
 FIELD STRIP
8. Remove the recoil system from the slide (See Figure 22-1).

CAUTION: Captive Recoil Spring System. Spring is under tension.

Maintain control.

9. Remove the barrel from the slide (See Figure 22-2).

The firearm is now fully field stripped and ready for cleaning.

Figure 22-1

Further dismantling is not necessary and should only be

WARNING done by Springfield, Inc. or a qualified pistolsmith.

Safety and instruction manuals are available from Springfield, Inc.

Always wear eye and ear protection when using any firearm.
Figure 22-2

22
NOTES:
 MAGAZINE BUTTON REVERSAL
Remove magazine and unload firearm. Remove slide assembly as outlined on page 21.
• Insert a pick or small screwdriver blade from the top of the magwell opening (See Figure 24-1) and force the spring towards the
retention notch (See Figure 24-1) on the magazine button, then pry rearward and the spring will be released from the magazine
button and will be in a vertical (See Figure 24-2) position.

Mag Release
Spring

Retension Notch
Figure 24-1 Figure 24-2

• Using a suitable tool such as needle nose pliers or similar grasp the
spring from above and remove it upwards (See Figure 24-3).

24
Figure 24-3
• The magazine button can now be removed from the frame. Remove the button smooth side first (See Figure 24-4). Reverse the
orientation of the mag catch and install the button textured side first (See Figure 24-5).

Mag Release
Button

Figure 24-4 Figure 24-5

• Using the pliers or other suitable tool install the spring into the frame pocket (See Figure 24-6) insuring its fully seated and in a
vertical orientation. With the screwdriver or pick press the top of the spring over and into the retention notch (See Figure 24-7) of
the magazine button body. The procedure is now complete.

Seat Firmly Mag Release

In Pocket Spring

Figure 24-6 Retension Notch Figure 24-7

25
Verify proper function of the magazine button and reassemble pistol.
 REASSEMBLY
CAUTION: Never allow live ammunition in the area while you are maintaining your firearms.

1. Install barrel into slide (See Figure 23-1) insuring that NOTE: IMPROPERLY ALIGNED RECOIL SYSTEM OR BARREL
the top of the chamber of the barrel is flush with the POSITION WILL CAUSE REASSEMBLY PROBLEMS. NEVER
top of the slide (See Figure 23-2). FORCE SLIDE ASSEMBLY ONTO FRAME.
2. Reinstall the recoil system insuring it is properly 3. Install the slide assembly onto the frame, making sure that
aligned (Figure 23-3). the trigger is in the rearward position (See Figure 23-4).

Figure 23-1 Figure 23-2

26
Figure 23-3 Figure 23-3 Figure 23-4
REASSEMBLY
CAUTION: Never allow live ammunition in the area while you are maintaining your firearms.

If interference is encountered, remove the slide assembly 4. (See Figure 24) Move the slide to its most rearward position
and make sure the barrel is properly seated, the recoil (1) (at this point spring resistance will be encountered) and
system is properly aligned and the trigger is in its most move/push the slide stop up (2), locking the
rearward position. slide to the rear.

NEVER FORCE SLIDE ASSEMBLY ONTO FRAME! 5. Rotate the disassembly lever counter-clockwise to the
Doing so could cause damage to your firearm. normal (locked) position (3).

6. Lower the slide.

1
7. Reassembly is now complete.
3
2

Figure 24

27
 MAGAZINE DISASSEMBLY 11 Round
Magazine
Magazine Body

Disassembling and cleaning magazines every 3-4 months is normally

sufficient, unless the magazines have been exposed to dirt or other Magazine
adverse conditions or inspection indicates a need for cleaning. Base
Disassembly of the HELLCAT® 11 round magazine is accomplished by
depressing the magazine spring (Figure 25-1) and sliding the base
plate forward.
Disassembly of the HELLCAT® 13 round magazine is accomplished
by depressing the magazine floor plate (Figure 25-2) and sliding the
base plate forward. Magazine Follower Magazine Spring Figure 25-3

NOTE: Make note of magazine spring orientation. 13 Round Magazine Body

Magazine
ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE SAFETY GLASSES WHEN
Magazine
DISASSEMBLING OR REASSEMBLING ANY MAGAZINE. Base Ext.

Figure 25-1 Figure 25-2 Magazine Follower Magazine Spring Floor Plate

The magazine spring, follower, and inner floor plate are under spring tension, and can cause
WARNING eye injury if not controlled during removal. Wear protective safety glasses to reduce the risk
of eye injuries. Be sure to maintain downward pressure on the magazine spring, with your
28 thumb, while disassembling.
POINTS OF LUBRICATION
NOTE: Please read entire manual and follow all safety rules before handling firearm.
1. Field Strip pistol. Only remove slide from frame
(See page 21).
2. Using any quality firearm lubricant, 1 drop of lubricant
on each side of the rear slide railways (See Figure 26-1).
3. Reassemble slide to frame (See page 23).
4. Manipulate slide back and forth 5 - 10 times.
5. 1 drop of lubricant on top of chamber area of the barrel
(See Figure 26-2).
6. Lock slide to the rear.
7. 1 drop of lubricant on the top of the muzzle of the
barrel, 1/4” from front top of muzzle (See Figure 26-3). Figure 26-1 Figure 26-2
8. Manipulate slide back and forth 5 - 10 times.

DO NOT Lubricate These Areas

29
Figure 26-3
 OSP™ OPTICS INSTALLATION
WARNING: Make sure the firearm is completely unloaded, magazine removed and
chamber clear.

NOTE: After installation of your optic, test fire to verify proper funciton.
Step 1: Using a Torx driver, remove 2 screws that retains OSP™ Plate. (Figure 27-1 & 27-2)
Step 2: Install your optic to OSP™ Pocket (Figure 27-3). Using M4-0.7 threaded screw at correct length.
Step 3: If you chose to use thread locker, use sparingly and on screws only. DO NOT apply thread locker to threaded holes in OSP
pocket (Figure 27-4). Using too much thread locker can foul mechanism.
NOTE: Screws for optic may require shortening. Screws cannot protrude more than 0.095” (2.4mm) from the bottom of the
sight (Figure 27-5)

INCORRECT
0.095”

CORRECT
30
Figure 27-1 Figure 27-2 Figure 27-3 Figure 27-4 Figure 27-5
NOTES:
 SLIDE PARTS LIST
2 Slide 30 Extractor
3 Barrel 31 Extractor Pin
23 Striker Locking Plate 32 Extractor Spring
24 Striker 33 Extractor Spring Pin
25 Striker Guide 34 Extractor Spring Plate
26 Striker Spring 35 Rear Sight
27 Striker Spring Retainer 36 Front Sight
28 Striker Pin Safety 37 Recoil Spring Assembly
29 Striker Safety Spring

32
33
 OSP™ SLIDE PARTS LIST
2 OSP Slide 31 Extractor Pin
3 Barrel 32 Extractor Spring
23 Striker Locking Plate 33 Extractor Spring Pin
24 Striker 34 Extractor Spring Plate
25 Striker Guide 35 OSP Rear Sight
26 Striker Spring 36 Front Sight
27 Striker Spring Retainer 37 Recoil Spring Assembly
28 Striker Pin Safety 45 OSP Plate
29 Striker Safety Spring 46 OSP Screw
30 Extractor

34
35
 FRAME PARTS LIST
1 Frame 13 Sear 38 Magazine Body - 11 Round
4 Locking Block 14 Sear Spring 39 Magazine Follower
5 Trigger Pin 15 Sear Spring Pin 40 Magazine Base - 11 Round
6 Locking Block Pin 16 Disconnector 40a Magazine Base - Extended
7 Disassembly Lever 17 Disconnector Spring 41 Magazine Spring
8 Magazine Blocking Lever 18 Disconnector Pin 42 Magazine Body - 13 Round
9 Slide Stop Lever Spring 19 Sear Housing Pin 43 Magazine Base - 13 Round
10 Slide Stop Lever 20 Sear Housing Pin Safety 44 Magazine Floor Plate
11 Sear Housing 21 Magazine Catch
12 Trigger Assembly 22 Magazine Catch Spring

36
37
 OSP™ FRAME PARTS LIST
1 Frame 13 Sear 38 Magazine Body - 11 Round
4 Locking Block 14 Sear Spring 39 Magazine Follower
5 Trigger Pin 15 Sear Spring Pin 40 Magazine Base - 11 Round
6 Locking Block Pin 16 Disconnector 40a Magazine Base - 11 Round Extended
7 Disassembly Lever 17 Disconnector Spring 41 Magazine Spring
8 Magazine Blocking Lever 18 Disconnector Pin 42 Magazine Body - 13 Round
9 Slide Stop Lever Spring 19 Sear Housing Pin 43 Magazine Base - 13 Round
10 Slide Stop Lever 20 Sear Housing Pin Safety 44 Magazine Floor Plate
11 Sear Housing 21 Magazine Catch
12 Trigger Assembly 22 Magazine Catch Spring

38
39
 POINT OF AIM
Point of Impact
The users may use a “point of aim” sight picture at 25
yards (See Figure 30-1). This means that, at 25 yards, the
bullet should impact the target at the point visible at
the top of the front sight. Springfield, Inc. firearms are
regulated to shoot point of aim, point of impact. Changing
brand or type of ammunition may alter point of impact as
well as user's technique.
Figure 30-1
CAUTION: Use only clean, dry, original,
high-quality, commercially manufactured “Point of Aim”
sight picture
ammunition.

40
FIREARM LOCK
Please read instructions included with
trigger lock.
CAUTION: FIREARMS SHOULD ALWAYS
BE LOCKED AND STORED IN COMPLETE
COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE
LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

Store key separately away from lock

and out of reach of children.

This trigger lock is supplied as an

aid to your security measures. Figure 31

41
 CARE & CLEANING
KEEP YOUR FIREARM CLEAN AT ALL TIMES When using bore brushes or a larger bristle brush on
Basic materials needed: breech face, breech areas, magazines, etc., work carefully
to prevent damaging components.
• Cleaning rod of proper size with bristle bore brushes
(fiber or brass) and tip into which cleaning NOTE: If lower parts of receiver and its mechanism are especially
patch can be inserted. dirty, soak in appropriate solvent, flush clean with clean solvent.
• Cloth patches Make certain that all foreign matter is removed after cleaning.
Lightly oil after cleaning.
• Powder solvent
Only a very small amount of oil is needed to adequately
• Lubricating oil lubricate moving parts and prevent rust. Accumulation of oil tends
• Small lint-free cloths for wiping and oiling to attract dust and dirt which interferes with the safe and reliable
functioning of firearm. DO NOT APPLY EXCESS LUBRICATING OIL.
• Bristle brush for scrubbing dirt off breech face,
DO NOT APPLY OIL OR GREASE TO STRIKER.
extractor, magazine lips, follower, etc.
Use proper size bore brushes and patches - if they are too
small they won’t do the job, and if they are too large they
will bind inside bore. Safety and instruction manuals are available from
Springfield, Inc.
Insert cleaning rod from chamber end of barrel and push
rod all the way through so it emerges from muzzle.
Wear eye protection when using solvent. Thoroughly
Do not “reverse” rod direction when patch or brush is in wash your hands to remove powder and solvents after
cleaning your firearm.
barrel, it might bind.
Do not use patches dripping with solvent or oil. Wet Always wear eye and ear protection when using any
patches or brushes, then squeeze out excess before using. firearm.
42
CLEANING FIREARM
1. Point firearm in safe direction. 9. Using powder solvent on a clean patch, remove
2. Remove magazine and empty chamber. powder residue from all components of mechanism.
If residue cannot be removed by wiping with
3. Separate cartridges from firearm before cleaning patch, use solvent-wetted bristle brush.
operation.
10. Next, wipe scrubbed areas with solvent-wetted patch.
4. Open slide and visually check that chamber and
magazine well are free of cartridges. 11. After cleaning, run dry patch through barrel,
then follow with lightly oiled patch.
5. Disassemble firearm as described in the
DISASSEMBLY section. 12. Wipe all surfaces clean with cloth, then wipe all
surfaces with lightly oiled patch (or cloth).
6. Using cleaning rod, run solvent-wetted patch through
barrel several times. 13. Reassemble firearm. Remember, an improperly
assembled firearm is dangerous and should not be
7. Attach solvent-wetted bristle brush to rod and run fired. Always consult a qualified pistolsmith if
back and forth full length of barrel as needed until you experience any difficulty or have any questions
clean of residue. concerning assembly procedure.
8. Clean barrel with dry patches and examine it. If 14. If firearm is to be stored for an extended period, final
necessary, repeat barrel scrubbing. Barrel fouling oil applications can be heavier so there will be less
can contribute to reduced accuracy, and residue tendency for it to evaporate.
accumulation in the chamber can interfere with
proper feeding of cartridges from magazine. 15. Keep your firearm clean at all times.

43
 SPRINGFIELD ARMORY® LIMITED WARRANTY
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY® LIMITED WARRANTY Write a brief description of the defect. Please write down a brief description of the defect
This Limited Warranty is issued by Springfield, Inc., d/b/a Springfield Armory, an Illinois and how YOU experienced or discovered the defect. Follow the return instructions you
corporation (“Springfield” or “we” or “us” or “our”) to “You” the original retail purchaser receive from Springfield. Once we receive Your notification for warranty notice at one
(also “YOUR”) of a Springfield product (the “Product”). This Limited Warranty gives You of our Warranty Service Contact Points, we will provide You with a shipping coupon (so
specific legal rights, and You may also have other rights which vary from state to state. that we can pay for the shipping) and instructions on how to return Your Product for
service. You must follow the shipping instructions once You receive them.
WHO AND WHAT IS COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY?
Springfield, Inc. warrants to You, the original retail purchaser of the Product, that the WHAT WILL SPRINGFIELD DO IF YOU DISCOVER A DEFECT?
Product You purchased will be free of defects in workmanship or material, subject to If, during YOUR ownership of the Product, one or more parts of the Product fail due to
the terms of this document. defects in materials or workmanship, Springfield will provide, free of charge, a new, re-
paired or reconditioned (decided at our discretion) Product. That new, repaired or recon-
HOW LONG WILL THIS WARRANTY LAST? ditioned Product will be warranted for the remainder of YOUR ownership of the Product
This Warranty will be in effect during the time that YOU, the original retail purchaser, under these terms and conditions.
own the product. Proof of original purchase required.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY?
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO DO FOR WARRANTY SERVICE? This Limited Warranty does not cover any damage or condition determined by Spring-
You must take 3 steps to get warranty service. Notify us by phone, email, fax, or mail. field to be caused by: unauthorized repairs, disassembly, adjustments or modifications,
If You discover a defect in material or workmanship, You must notify us by telephone, carelessness, negligence, misuse, or unsafe handling, normal wear and tear, failure to
email, fax or mail at once of the Warranty Service Contact Points. Warranty Service properly or reasonably store, use, or maintain the product, hand-loaded, reloaded, re-
Contact Points: manufactured, or defective ammunition.
Telephone: 800-680-6866
Email: [email protected]
Fax: 309-944-3676
Mail: Springfield Armory WARNING
420 West Main Street
Geneseo, Illinois 61254 The HELLCAT®, like all firearms, is a dangerous weapon if not
Attn: Warranty Service handled properly.
44
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND DISCLAIMERS GOVERNING LAW/VENUE/CONSENT TO JURISDICTION
This limited warranty is provided in lieu of any and all express warranties. All implied This Limited Warranty will be governed and construed in accordance with the law of the
warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability, non-infringement and State of Illinois, without regard to Illinois’ conflict of law rules. Any litigation between
fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to the duration of the warranty SPRINGFIELD and YOU or YOUR heirs, representatives or assigns shall be filed before a
period (the original purchaser’s (your) ownership of the product) and no warranties, court of competent jurisdiction and venue in the 14th Judicial District of the State of
hether express or implied, will apply after such period. Illinois. YOU HEREBY CONSENT TO THE IN PERSONAM JURISDICTION AND VENUE OF THE
Some states do not allow limitations on the duration of an implied warranty, so the ILLINOIS COURTS, AND THAT SERVICE OF THE PROCESS MAY BE MADE UPON YOU AS PRO-
above limitation may not apply to you. Springfield’s responsibility for malfunctions and VIDED BY ILLINOIS LAW.
defects in the product is limited to the terms set forth in this limited warranty. The pre-
ceding limited warranty constitutes springfield’s only obligation to you and represents
your exclusive remedy against springfield. In no event will springfield be liable for inci-
KEEP THIS CARD FOR YOUR RECORDS
dental, special or consequential damages, regardless of whether your claims are based
on breach of contract, tort (including negligence and strict liability) or other theories, Serial Number_____________________________
including, without limitation, any liability for economic loss, bodily injury, property
damage or for any damage that may result from your use or ownership of the product, Date Of Purchase___________________________
whether foreseeable or not. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of inci-
dental or consequential damages or certain other exclusions contained in warranties, so
the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. The limitations set forth in this Place Of Purchase__________________________
limited warranty shall not apply to the extent that they are prohibited by law.

No person or entity is authorized to give any other warranty or to assume any other ob-
ligation on behalf of Springfield. Any provision of this Limited Warranty prohibited or
unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall be ineffective only to the extent of such prohibi-
tion and shall not invalidate any of the remaining provisions of this Limited Warranty.
ACTIVATE YOUR WARRANTY ONLINE AT:
www.springfieldwarranty.com/StartWarranty.asp
And recieve a coupon for specific discounted items on our webstore.
Magazines, shirts, hats, range bags and much more.
45
NOTES:
NOTES:
 420 WEST MAIN STREET, GENESEO, IL 61254 • 800-680-6866

Safety and instruction manuals are available from Always wear eye and ear protection when using any firearm.
Springfield, Inc.

DOWNLOAD THIS MANUAL ON OUR WEBSITE: WWW.SPRINGFIELD-ARMORY.COM

Always check website for updated versions of operation & safety manuals
Revised 11/12/20 Copyright 2020. Contents property of Springfield, Inc. All rights reserved.