Description
There aren't many rifles that get a full 16 inch barrel into an overall length of 28.25 inches, but that's the whole point of the Springfield Hellion. Built on a proven bullpup layout where the action sits behind the trigger, it delivers the velocity and terminal performance of a full length 5.56 NATO barrel out of a package shorter than most pistol-braced builds. That makes it a natural fit for working in tight spaces, truck storage, or anyone who wants rifle performance without the paperwork and ballistic tradeoffs of a short barrel.
Why the Hellion Works From Either Shoulder
Bullpups have a reputation for being right-hand-only guns, and Springfield went out of their way to fix that. The charging handle, safety, magazine release, and bolt release are all fully ambidextrous, and the ejection port can be swapped from right to left side ejection without any extra parts. QD sling points sit on both sides of the rifle too. Lefties get a genuinely equal experience here, which is rare in this category.
Springfield Hellion 5.56 Features and Build
The 16 inch hammer forged CMV barrel wears a Melonite finish, a 1:7 twist that stabilizes heavier match and defensive loads, and a four prong flash hider on standard 1/2×28 threads. The two position adjustable gas system on the short stroke piston keeps it running clean and gives you a dedicated setting for suppressed use. Up top, a full length Picatinny rail hosts integrated flip-up sights with a five position aperture rear, so it's ready for an optic or usable right out of the case. The handguard carries M-LOK slots at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock for lights and accessories, the BCM Mod 3 grip fills the hand nicely, and the buttstock adjusts across five positions with a cheek riser to get your eye behind whatever glass you mount.
It ships with a 30 round magazine and accepts standard AR-15 pattern mags, so feeding it is simple. Springfield also includes a padded rifle case with magazine pouches, a nice touch that protects a mounted optic between range trips.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
- Model: Hellion Bullpup
- MPN: HL916556B
- UPC: 706397956776
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Rem
- Action: Semi-Auto, Short-Stroke Gas Piston
- Barrel: 16" Hammer Forged CMV, Melonite Finish
- Twist Rate: 1:7
- Muzzle Device: 4-Prong Flash Hider, 1/2×28 Threads
- Capacity: 30+1
- Overall Length: 28.25" – 29.75"
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Sights: Integrated Flip-Up Front and Rear, 5-Position Aperture Rear
- Stock: 5-Position Adjustable with Cheek Riser
- Grip: BCM Mod 3
- Handguard: Polymer with M-LOK Slots at 3, 6, and 9 O'Clock
What’s Included
- Springfield Hellion 5.56 bullpup rifle
- 1 x 30-round magazine
- Padded rifle case with exterior magazine pouches
- Cable lock
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Springfield Hellion take standard AR-15 magazines?
Yes, the Hellion feeds from standard AR-15 pattern magazines, and one 30-round mag comes in the box. That is a big practical advantage over some other bullpups that require proprietary mags, since you can use the PMAGs and aluminum GI mags you probably already have on hand.
Is the Hellion truly ambidextrous for left-handed use?
It is one of the most lefty-friendly bullpups on the market. The charging handle, safety, magazine release, and bolt release are all ambidextrous, and the ejection port can be reversed to eject from the left side without any additional parts. There are also QD sling attachment points on both sides of the rifle.
Is the Hellion suppressor ready?
Yes. The barrel is threaded 1/2×28 behind the four prong flash hider, so most 5.56 suppressors and muzzle devices will mount right up. The short-stroke piston system also has a two position adjustable gas setting, letting you dial the gun down for reliable, cleaner-running suppressed shooting.
Do I need to buy an optic for the Hellion right away?
Not necessarily. The Hellion ships with integrated flip-up iron sights, including a five position aperture rear, so it is usable straight out of the case. That said, the full length Picatinny top rail makes it easy to add a red dot or LPVO when you are ready, and many owners recommend a lower mounted optic to suit the bullpup layout.





Reviews
There are no reviews yet.