PDX Arsenal review of Apex Tactical’s Hellcat Pro

          In the world of modern defensive pistols, Springfield Armory’s Hellcat Pro has earned a solid reputation as a multi-role, highly capable handgun. The factory version is time-tested and widely celebrated for its compact size, reliability, and overall performance. However, elevating a good gun to the realm of truly exceptional demands an unprecedented level of engineering and manufacturing expertise.

Enter Apex Tactical Specialties

          Apex Tactical Specialties humbly began “behind enemy lines” in Los Osos, California with a vision by Randy Lee who is a truly phenomenal gunsmith and equally accomplished competition shooter who set out on a mission of transforming his passion into his career (which I personally have an abundance of respect and admiration for.)

          Randy quickly established a name for himself and his brand Apex Tactical by specializing on elevating proven platforms like the 1911, and Browning Hi Power transforming them to new heights which is a difficult task to accomplish. His genuine passion for firearms paired with the ever-increasing demand for his work to be performed by professional agencies across the country were the catalysts he felt were necessary resulting in the birth of Apex Tactical Specialties.

          Like any true master whose work is appreciated by many, Randy realized he needed a team and partner who equally shared his passion along with his vision and in 2009 Randy brilliantly hired on Scott Folk (who previously worked for Grayguns inc.) 

          This pivotal moment was the missing ingredient necessary in order to scale Apex into the company we have all come to know and love. The partnership between Apex founder Randy Lee and Scott Folk’s partnership beautifully blended their individual skill sets that contrasted each other in certain aspects yet simultaneously complemented each other in ways that allowed them to build Apex Tactical into what it has now become.

          California’s increasingly restrictive gun laws provided the insight and foreshadowing necessary for Apex to wisely relocate to a state where they could allow their shared vision to thrive. This decision to move operations to Peoria, Arizona in June of 2016, was both equally strategic as it was expensive. However, realizing the team they had carefully assembled in California was crucial to their success in scaling Apex Tactical’s brand meant that they not only relocated themselves, but also incentivized a significant portion of its staff and their families to join them which they were successful in doing.

          The move proved invaluable. With operations reestablished in Arizona, Apex was able to accelerate its product development cycle. New ideas transitioned rapidly from concept to market-ready products—without ever compromising safety or quality. Apex products have always been, and continue to be, extensively tested beyond industry standards, with rigorous quality control ensuring reliability.

          After nearly eight years of partnership between PDX Arsenal, Portland, Oregon’s premier firearm training company, and Apex Tactical—an industry leader in striker-fired handgun innovation—I write the following review feeling honored to help play a small part of the testing and evaluation process of the Apex Grade Hellcat Pro.

Innovative Engineering and Enhanced Controls

          The first upgrade that caught my attention was the Enhanced Controls Kit, a testament to Apex’s commitment to continuous improvement. This kit offers several benefits:

• The extended takedown lever simplifies disassembly.

• The extended slide lock lever improves ergonomics.

• The extended magazine release which allows for quicker reloads 

For me personally these modifications made slide manipulations noticeably more intuitive and efficient, and while seemingly subtle, they significantly impact the end-user’s experience, reducing cognitive load in high-pressure situations while ensuring seamless operation.

Apex’s “Type 3” Trigger: A Small Change with a Big Impact

          Apex Tactical’s pursuit of continuous improvement is evident in their newly designed Type 3 trigger. When I received the Apex elevated Hellcat Pro (which I, unfortunately, had to return), I was beyond eager to test it out and put it through its paces. 

          I’ve been a self-identified “trigger snob” ever since Apex released their forward-set sear kits and flat-faced triggers for the first-generation Smith & Wesson’s M&P line back in 2014. 

          In full transparency, after firing my first 150 rounds through the Apex Hellcat Pro, I didn’t immediately notice a jaw dropping difference in trigger performance—aside from the drastically improved aesthetics largely credited to the chamfering on the corners of the trigger shoe’s face 

          However, after two months of meticulous evaluation—observing my less-experienced students shoot the Apex Hellcat Pro from a side profile, I reached a clear conclusion. Many of my students, some with little to no handgun experience, struggled with consistent trigger finger placement. The chamfered edges of the Type 3 trigger provided a noticeable level of “grace” downrange, resulting in higher levels of consistent points of impact even when there were slight variations in finger placement. 

          Apex’s Spring Kit further enhances the trigger system, balancing their springs kit in order to refine the stock trigger pull performance modestly reducing Springfield’s factory trigger weight from 5-6 lbs. down to a more consistent 5-5.5 lbs.—a standard range for defensive carry guns. Given past concerns over unintended discharges in other notable platforms, Apex prioritizes safety and reliability. The sear spring kit incorporates a felt core, which acts as a vibration attenuator, reducing impulse shock and extended the lifespan of the trigger return spring. Apex even recommends applying a drop of oil to the felt core every 3,000–5,000 rounds for continued smooth operation.

The Apex Slide: Where Form Meets Function

          Apex Tactical’s slide modifications they chose to integrate is another standout feature. Their beautifully machined slides are made from heat-treated stainless steel and feature the user’s choice of a unique honeycomb-textured serration pattern (like the one I was sent) as well as their new lightning bolt-textured pattern. These designs not only added an aggressive aesthetic but simultaneously provides increased positive purchase, making slide manipulations easier and more secure noticeable to a broader customer.

Notable design features include:

• Ported muzzle – Reduces muzzle rise and heat buildup.

• Optic-ready cut – Compatible with Holosun 407K/507K and RMS-C red dots.

• XS 3-dot tritium night sights – The front sight features an orange ring for quick acquisition in low-light conditions.

• Optic cover plate & screws – Included for those preferring iron sights.

Performance Enhancements That Matter

          Every Apex upgrade is designed to work harmoniously, resulting in a firearm that in my humble opinion far surpasses its stock counterpart. The performance spring set refines the trigger pull process and enhances reset consistency, improving overall accuracy. These improvements become particularly noticeable during extended shooting sessions, where a well-balanced trigger and reduced shockwave allow for smoother operation.

          My experience reinforced an important lesson: seemingly small enhancements often lead to massive improvements in handling and performance results.

          I’ve owned a stock Springfield Hellcat, which, while reliable, had noticeable felt recoil due to its subcompact size. The Apex Tactical upgrade includes a slightly longer 3.7-inch barrel, significantly improving muzzle control and accuracy. The difference is dramatic—it transforms the Hellcat Pro into a much more enjoyable pistol to shoot. It’s rare that I get genuinely excited about a subcompact, but Apex’s engineering mastery has changed that.

Balancing Price and Performance

          Of course, cost is a factor. The stock Springfield Hellcat Pro OSP has an MSRP of around $649. A fully built Apex Grade Hellcat Pro—including the base gun—comes in at approximately $1,800.

          While this price may cause hesitation, I can confidently say that the enhanced performance, durability, and precision more than justify the investment. For those who demand the best in tactical performance and reliability, this upgraded model exceeds expectations.

Final Thoughts

          Apex Tactical has redefined what’s possible with the Springfield Hellcat Pro. From their Type 3 trigger and extended controls to the honeycomb-textured or lightning bolt- textured slide, every upgrade is meticulously designed to elevate the shooting experience.

          My evaluation of the upgraded Hellcat Pro leaves no doubt: this pistol is a masterpiece of modern firearm engineering. Its enhanced ergonomics, refined trigger system, and improved accuracy transform an already solid subcompact into a truly exceptional firearm.

          For shooters who appreciate finely tuned performance and are willing to invest in top-tier components that could potentially save their life or the lives of their loved ones, I say this with confidence: Apex Tactical’s modifications to the Hellcat Pro are worth every penny. It’s an outstanding option for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and civilian enthusiasts alike.

          If you’re in the market for a subcompact pistol that offers not just reliability but a superior shooting experience, the Apex Tactical Hellcat Pro should be at the top of your list.

This isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a revolution in subcompact firearm design.