Springfield Armory Launches New Hellion 5.56mm Bullpup Variants: First Look

Springfield Armory is proud to announce the release of two new variants of the Hellion, offering enhanced ballistic performance with 18” and 20” barrel length options and unique features true to the original VHS-2 design.

Based on the internationally proven bullpup employed by the Croatian armed forces in demanding environments ranging from Iraq to Africa and beyond, the Springfield Armory Hellion offers American shooters a semi-automatic version of this highly capable and fully ambidextrous firearm.

While the original Hellion launched early last year featured a short 16” barrel designed to offer the most compact package possible, the newly released variants feature extended 18” and 20” barrels. The result is a 5.56mm that still offers the compact handling characteristics of a bullpup, but with enhanced velocity and downrange performance.

In addition, the 20”-barreled version of the Hellion features an overall configuration similar to that of the Croatian VHS-D2, a designated marksman version of the VHS. The 20” Hellion is outfitted with a distinctive ribbed forward section of barrel for enhanced cooling as well as an integrated bayonet lug.

As part of the Hellion’s development, Springfield Armory adapted the original VHS-2 design for the American market. This includes its ability to feed from AR-pattern magazines, the use of replaceable AR-pattern pistol grips, M-Lok slots in the handguard and the addition of six QD mounts. The result is a design with international roots, yet addressed to the specific needs of American shooters.

All Hellions feature a reversible ejection system that requires no additional parts or tools. Complementing this system is a set of fully ambidextrous controls, including the safety, charging handle, magazine and bolt release. A five-position collapsible buttstock, two-position adjustable gas system and integrated flip-up iron sights further add to the design’s adaptability.

“The Hellion built upon the solid foundation of the VHS-2, adapting it to the needs of American shooters,” says Steve Kramer, Springfield Armory’s Vice President of Marketing. “With these two new longer-barreled variants in 18” and 20”, shooters have the option of increased downrange performance as well as features true to the original design.”

All Hellions come with a 30-round Magpul PMAG and Bravo Company USA BCMGUNFIGHTER Mod 3 pistol grip. MSRP of the 18” version is $2,016, while the 20” version has an MSRP of $2,031.

• Hellion 18” 5.56mm | HL918556B | 706397969448 | MSRP: $2,016
• Hellion 20” 5.56mm | HL920556B | 706397969455 | MSRP $2,031

To learn more about the new Hellions, visit the following:

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• Hellion 18" 5.56mm
• Hellion 20" 5.56mm

About Springfield Armory

In 1794, the original Springfield Armory began manufacturing muskets for the defense of our young, free Republic. The Armory functioned as a firearms supplier for every major American conflict until 1968 when the government sadly closed its doors. In 1974, nearly two centuries after its inception, Springfield Armory Inc. in Geneseo, Ill. revived the iconic heritage of the Armory to carry on its legacy.

We strive to honor this responsibility as guardians of the original Springfield Armory legacy by manufacturing the highest quality firearms to enable responsible citizens to preserve their right to keep and bear arms in the defense of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

With an unmatched emphasis on craftsmanship, performance and exceptional customer service, our mission is to forge superior firearms and provide the tools necessary to defend individual freedoms and equality for those who embrace the rights and principles secured by our Founding Fathers. For more information, please visit us at: springfield-armory.com