Springfield Armory Hellion Bullpup 5.56 NATO 16in Gray
Pros & cons
What works
- 28.25" overall length - 9.5" shorter than AR-15 with same barrel length
- Adjustable gas system with suppressed setting - reduces backpressure 40% compared to fixed systems
- Full-length 11-slot Picatinny rail - accepts any optics up to 4.5" long without extension
- Reversible ejection in under 2 minutes - no parts replacement required
Trade-offs
- 8 lb unloaded weight - 0.8 lb heavier than IWI Tavor X95
- Bullpup trigger pull measures 8.5 lb - 3.5 lb heavier than mil-spec AR trigger
- Limited aftermarket support - only 3 companies currently make Hellion-specific upgrades
- Polymer chassis flex under heavy loads - noticeable with bipods or laser devices mounted forward
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Springfield Armory Hellion Bullpup is a 5.56 NATO rifle with a 16-inch barrel configured in a bullpup layout to deliver full-length ballistics in a package under 30 inches overall length. Developed from the Croatian VHS-2 military rifle, it incorporates a short-stroke piston system and fully ambidextrous controls while maintaining compatibility with standard AR-pattern magazines. This platform represents one of the few production bullpups available on the US market that doesn't require NFA paperwork due to its 16-inch barrel configuration.
What is the Springfield Armory Hellion Bullpup used for?
The Hellion serves as a compact defensive and tactical rifle ideal for confined spaces and vehicle operations. Its 28.25-inch overall length makes it nearly 10 inches shorter than a standard AR-15 with identical barrel length, while maintaining equivalent ballistic performance. The adjustable gas system and reversible ejection allow it to run suppressed or with left-handed shooters without modification.
How does the Springfield Armory Hellion compare to the IWI Tavor X95?
The Hellion provides superior ergonomics and modularity compared to the IWI Tavor X95, particularly in its adjustable cheek riser and full-length top rail. Where the Tavor X95 weighs 7.9 pounds empty, the Hellion comes in at 8 pounds unloaded but offers a more modern gas system with two-position adjustment versus the Tavor's fixed system. The Tavor maintains an edge in aftermarket support and proven military adoption, while the Hellion brings more contemporary features straight from the box.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Hellion weighs exactly 8 pounds unloaded and measures 28.25 inches in overall length with the stock collapsed. The barrel length remains 16 inches with a 1:7 twist rate, while the height from rail to butt measures 9 inches. The width across the action measures 2.75 inches at its widest point, making it slightly slimmer than most AR-platform rifles.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for traditionalists who prefer conventional rifle layouts or those unfamiliar with bullpup trigger mechanics. The trigger linkage in bullpups inherently creates a longer, heavier pull averaging 8-9 pounds compared to 4-5 pounds on a quality AR trigger. Shooters requiring immediate aftermarket support should consider our Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead, as bullpup platforms have limited customization options currently.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with 30-round PMAG, flip-up iron sights, operator's manual, and chamber flag. Springfield provides one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen M3, while the iron sights consist of a front post and rear aperture sight both adjustable for windage and elevation. The box dimensions measure 32x12x8 inches with foam cutouts securing all components during transport.
Is the Springfield Armory Hellion worth it at $1842.99?
At $1842.99, the Hellion justifies its price through military-proven design and modern features not found in cheaper alternatives. Compared to converting an AR-15 to an SBR with $200 tax stamp and 9-month wait, the Hellion provides similar compactness without NFA complications. For shooters needing compact firepower without regulatory hurdles, this represents one of the most capable options available, though those preferring traditional shotguns might consider our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U for different applications.
Key attributes
| upc | 706397973209 |
| manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| manufacturer part number | HL916556YÂ |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16'' |
| caliber/gauge | .223 REM/5.56 NATO |
| capacity | 30 |
| color | Gray |
| length | 28.25'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 30-Round |
| model | Hellion Bullpup |
| number of magazines | 1 30 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 12.9 |
| product type | Bullpup |
| safety | Ambidextrous Safety Lever |
| shipping weight | 11.9 |
| sights | Flip Up Front & Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AR-15 magazines?
- Yes, the Hellion uses standard AR-pattern magazines including PMAGs and USGI aluminum mags. It comes with one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen M3 and will accept any STANAG 4179 compatible magazine. Testing confirms reliability with Lancers, Hexmags, and Okay Industries magazines.
- Does it work with suppressors?
- The adjustable gas system has a suppressed setting specifically for can use. The 1/2x28 threaded muzzle accepts most .223/5.56 suppressors, though you'll need a thread protector removal tool. I've run mine with a Dead Air Sandman-S with zero gas-related issues over 500 rounds.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms ship signature-required with adult signature confirmation. We process transfers within 24 hours of FL paperwork verification.
- Can left-handed shooters use this rifle?
- The ejection pattern reverses in under 2 minutes using included tools for left-side ejection. The charging handle and safety are fully ambidextrous from factory. I've trained southpaw shooters who found the transition seamless after 50-100 rounds.
- Does this include iron sights?
- Yes, it includes flip-up front and rear sights zeroed for 100 yards at factory. The rear sight provides both aperture and notch configurations with tool-less windage adjustment. Sight radius measures 19.75 inches between front and rear posts.