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Hell cat pro vs xdm Elite 3.8 compact both in 9mm

18K views 15 replies 11 participants last post by  Boycan  
#1 ·
I currently own an xds .45 and an xdm 5.25 9mm both have been great guns. I am looking to add another carry gun larger than the xds for more capasity and easier shooting. Im trying to decide between the xdm eliete 3.8 compact and the hell cat pro. I like that the elite is very simmilar to my xdm which has been great for almost 25k rounds now. Im sure they are both good guns but would like opinions. Are both big enough for a full 3 finger grip? Any reason to go one or the other? If both will support a full 3 finger grip then im leaning elite for the similaritys to my xdm and most likley better trigger than the hell cat. Also will the xdm elite take mags from my xdm 5.25 ? Thanks for any info mike

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#2 · (Edited)
Yes the mags will work. As far as the grip goes I can get a full grip on the Hellcat. On the 3.8 my ring finger rests on top of the mag well flange and my pinky rests on the lip of the mag. It may sound uncomfortable but it’s really not and I seem to shoot the 3.8’s better. Mine are 45 & 10mm. I think the width fills my hand better. I also have a 5.25 in 10mm and the 3.8 slide for both fits right on the frame. I haven’t shot this combo yet but looking at it everything lines up and should work.
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#8 ·
I carry an (earlier) XDMc, and when comparing it to the Hellcat, I find the Hellcat would be easier to carry and conceal IMO. Especially here in FL in the summer.

(Not better enough to justify a new gun, but better).

I like the XDM elite and the Hellcat.... and if the capacity is the main deciding factor, (the long full size xdm mags give a TON of rounds), The XDM elite is a good choice. For just slightly fewer rounds, (I think 15 in the hellcat), the ease of carry and concealment may more than make up for a heavier gun... so go for the Hellcat. Both great choices.

In my case, I find that I end up carrying a Glock 42 or a S&W M&P9c because of the ease of carry.. slightly smaller/lighter (M&P) when dress allows, or the much smaller (G42) when in lower threat areas and lighter clothing. As much as I love the XDMc, every ounce matters in some situations. You may find the XDM Elite 3.8 is just a little more than you want every day while the Hellcat give you almost as much in an easier to carry package.
 
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#9 ·
I like my Hellcat Pro a lot and it’s my first EDC pistol. I carry IWB at 3:00 under an untucked button up short sleeve shirt and it’s tough to see. I mainly carry for our church security team, but I’m carrying more in public all the time. I get all fingers comfortably on the grip and have 15+1 capacity without sacrificing the ability to conceal well. It’s a great package that suits my particular needs.


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#10 ·
HellCat is the most comfortable, highest capacity Springfield offers. You will not be disappointed with the original or the pro if your an XDMc fan. I carry the Hellcat with a 15 round mag which is essentially the pro with a shorter barrel and I own and occasionally carry an XDMc 45 elite and a XDMc 9 mm pre-elite model and there is no comparison which one is more comfortable. Shoot ability is the real question, I shoot all my XDM’s better than the Hellcat but I carry everyday so I personally opt for comfort.
 
#11 ·
I have the XDS in .45 and I also have a 9mm XDM 3.8 compact. I purchased the Hellcat in January. The XDS is nice and very concealable but only holds 5+1. My XDM holds 13+1 and the Hellcat has 11, 13, and 15rd mags. I really like the Hellcat due to it's very small size which makes it easier to conceal. I generally carry in the 13+1 mode as I can get a full grip on the handle.