The Springfield Armory Hellion is a bullpup semi-automatic rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO with a 16" barrel. The bullpup layout puts the action behind the trigger group, so you get a 16" barrel in an overall length of 28.25" to 29.75" — substantially shorter than a standard AR-15 with the same barrel length. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model Name: Hellion 
• Brand: Springfield Armory 
• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO 
• Action: Semi-Auto 
• Barrel Length: 16" 
• Weight: 8 lbs 
• Length: Adjustable between 28.25" - 29.75" 
• Capacity: 10+1 RD 
• Barrel Twist Rate: 1:7" 
• Finish: Brown Stock Finish Group 
• Safety: Ambidextrous Safety Lever 
• Trigger Type: Standard Trigger 
• Grip Type: Standard Grip 
• Stock Features: Adjustable with cheek riser 
• Sights Type: Flip-up Front & Rear 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The adjustable stock has a cheek riser that can be configured for different shooting positions and face shapes. Flip-up front and rear sights are included; the rifle also accepts standard optics. The ambidextrous safety lever is accessible from either side, which matters in a bullpup design where the controls are positioned differently than a traditional rifle. 
 
The 1:7" twist rate is compatible with heavier 5.56 projectiles. At 8 lbs, the Hellion is on the heavier side for a 5.56 rifle, which is typical for bullpup designs due to the relocated action. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
The short overall length makes the Hellion practical for situations where a full-length rifle would be cumbersome. Competitive shooters who want a full-length barrel in a compact package may find the design appealing. For home defense, the reduced overall length improves handling in confined spaces while retaining the 16" barrel's velocity.

The Hellion tends to attract buyers who specifically wanted a bullpup and evaluated several options before landing here. That self-selection generally produces positive feedback — people who bought it understood the trade-offs of the bullpup layout going in.

Ergonomics and control placement get the most discussion. The ambidextrous layout is appreciated, and most users find the controls accessible after a short adjustment period. The adjustable cheekpiece is a consistent positive — it allows more precise head positioning than most fixed-stock bullpups.

The trigger is a common critique. Bullpup triggers tend to have longer travel and a less crisp feel than equivalent AR triggers due to the linkage required by the design, and the Hellion is no exception. Shooters accustomed to aftermarket AR triggers will notice the difference.

Weight at 8 lbs is occasionally mentioned — heavier than many AR-15s at the same caliber, though the compact overall length partially offsets that for handling purposes.

Pricing conversations are mixed. Some buyers consider the compact design and Springfield brand worth the cost; others think the price should be lower given the trigger feel. Overall, owners who use it regularly tend to be satisfied once they've adapted to the bullpup controls.