A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean the Springfield Armory Hellcat

Properly cleaning your Springfield Armory Hellcat is essential to maintaining its performance and longevity. Regular maintenance ensures your firearm functions smoothly and reliably, whether you use it for self-defense, concealed carry, or range practice. Follow this step-by-step guide to clean your Hellcat effectively.

What You’ll Need (Click "Gun Cleaning Gear" in navigation menu)

• Cleaning solvent or CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant)

• Gun oil or lubricant

• Cleaning patches

• Bore brush and cleaning rod

• Nylon brush or soft-bristle toothbrush

• Microfiber cloth

• Q-tips or cotton swabs

1. Unload and Safety Check

Always start by ensuring your Hellcat is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine and check the chamber visually and physically to confirm there are no live rounds present. Safety first!

2. Field Strip the Hellcat

• Lock the slide back and rotate the takedown lever upward.

• Release the slide and gently remove it from the frame.

• Remove the recoil spring assembly and the barrel from the slide.

Now, you’re ready to begin cleaning each part.

3. Clean the Barrel

• Attach a bore brush to your cleaning rod and dip it into a cleaning solvent or CLP. Run it through the barrel several times to loosen carbon buildup.

• Follow with cleaning patches, pushing them through the barrel until they come out clean. You may need to repeat this a few times.

• Use a Q-tip to clean around the feed ramp and other tight areas of the barrel.

4. Clean the Slide

• Apply solvent or CLP to the inside of the slide and use a nylon brush to scrub away dirt, debris, and carbon buildup, especially around the breech face and the extractor.

• Wipe down the entire slide with a clean cloth or patch, ensuring all solvent and debris are removed.

5. Clean the Frame

• Use a brush and solvent to clean the rails and trigger assembly inside the frame. Be thorough but gentle.

• Wipe down the frame with a cloth or cotton swabs to get into the tight areas.

6. Lubricate

• Apply a small amount of gun oil to the following points:

  • The barrel (a light coat around the outside and locking lugs).

  • The recoil spring assembly.

  • The slide rails and other metal-on-metal contact points inside the frame.

Note: Don’t over-lubricate – a light coat is all you need to ensure smooth operation.

7. Reassemble

• Reinsert the barrel and recoil spring assembly into the slide.

• Place the slide back onto the frame and lock it into place.

• Rotate the takedown lever back to its original position.

8. Function Check

Once reassembled, perform a quick function check by racking the slide and dry-firing the Hellcat to ensure everything is working correctly. Make sure the firearm is unloaded for this step.

9. Wipe Down and Store

Finally, give the entire firearm a final wipe-down with a microfiber cloth, paying special attention to the exterior to remove any fingerprints or remaining oil. Store your Hellcat in a safe, dry place.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Springfield Armory Hellcat stays in optimal condition, ready for your next range day or for everyday carry. Regular maintenance helps prevent malfunctions and keeps your firearm performing at its best.