Understanding the Hellcat Pro Trigger
Why Upgrade?
The Springfield Hellcat Pro has quickly become a favorite among concealed carry enthusiasts and self-defense practitioners. Its compact size, impressive magazine capacity, and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for personal protection. However, like any firearm, there’s always room for improvement. One of the most common areas where users seek enhancement is the trigger. This is where the Mcarbo Trigger kit comes into play, promising a significant upgrade to the shooting experience. This article dives deep into the Mcarbo Trigger for the Springfield Hellcat Pro, exploring its features, installation, performance, and whether it’s a worthwhile investment.
Understanding the Hellcat Pro Trigger
The stock trigger on the Hellcat Pro, while functional, often receives mixed reviews. It’s generally considered to be adequate for its intended purpose, but many shooters find it can benefit from refinement. The factory trigger typically has a pull weight in the range of around five to six pounds, which is a common specification for many striker-fired pistols. The break point is relatively crisp, but the trigger can feel somewhat gritty. The reset, while not excessively long, could be improved for faster follow-up shots.
The Importance of a Good Trigger
For many, the desire for a better trigger stems from the pursuit of improved accuracy. A smoother, lighter trigger pull can significantly reduce the chances of disturbing the firearm during the firing process. A cleaner break and a more pronounced reset allows for faster follow-up shots, a crucial factor in self-defense situations. Additionally, a refined trigger can simply make the shooting experience more enjoyable, leading to more consistent practice and increased proficiency. The key objective of a trigger upgrade for the Hellcat Pro is to enhance the overall shooting experience and make the pistol even more effective in the hands of the user.
Introducing the Mcarbo Trigger for Hellcat Pro
Mcarbo is a well-respected name in the firearm aftermarket world, known for its high-quality upgrade components. Their offerings consistently aim to provide tangible performance enhancements. The Mcarbo Trigger kit for the Hellcat Pro is designed to address the common complaints and provide a significant boost in trigger performance. It represents a complete solution designed to replace key components of the existing trigger system.
Key Components and Features
The kit typically includes a new trigger itself, constructed from high-quality materials. Aircraft grade aluminum or other resilient materials are usually used to ensure durability and long-term performance. It also incorporates precision-engineered springs, often made from spring steel, that are carefully calibrated to reduce pull weight and improve trigger feel. Additionally, the kit might include pins or other small parts that work to optimize the trigger mechanism. Mcarbo meticulously engineers these components to work harmoniously with the Hellcat Pro platform.
One of the primary claims of the Mcarbo Trigger kit is a noticeable reduction in trigger pull weight. The manufacturer often advertises a reduction of a few pounds, leading to a lighter and more responsive trigger. A lighter pull weight can allow for more precise shot placement by minimizing the disturbance caused by the trigger pull itself. Also, the smoother action delivered by the Mcarbo trigger will result in less perceived creep and a more predictable break, both crucial for enhanced accuracy.
Another key feature of the Mcarbo Trigger kit is the improvement in the trigger reset. A shorter, more tactile reset allows for faster follow-up shots. This means that the shooter can get back on target more quickly after each shot, enhancing their overall shooting speed and efficiency. The design often makes the reset more easily felt and heard, making follow-up shots more natural.
The Installation Process
While the Mcarbo Trigger kit is designed to be user-installable, it’s important to approach the process with care and attention to detail. Safety should be the top priority throughout the entire process. Before beginning, ensure the Hellcat Pro is completely unloaded. Visually and physically inspect the chamber to confirm that it’s empty.
Step-by-Step Guidance
The installation process will generally involve disassembling the slide and frame of the Hellcat Pro to access the trigger mechanism. Mcarbo provides detailed instructions, and it is critical to follow them precisely. It’s also recommended to have the appropriate tools at hand. A set of quality punches, a small hammer, and a gunsmithing bench block can make the process much smoother and safer.
The instructions will likely guide the user through disassembling the existing trigger assembly, removing the factory trigger, springs, and pins. This can involve removing the slide from the frame, and then removing the trigger from the frame. Users should pay careful attention to the order of the parts and the orientation. Take photos throughout the process or keep the factory components laid out in order to aid in reassembly. Mcarbo’s instructions are usually well-illustrated, but watching a video demonstration can be very helpful. Many videos are readily available online, providing visual guidance during the process.
Once the factory trigger components are removed, the new Mcarbo parts can be installed. Carefully install the new trigger, springs, and any other included components, paying attention to the orientation and alignment of each part. The kit typically includes new springs, which will replace those from the factory. The pins need to be inserted correctly and securely.
Once the trigger and components are in place, reassemble the frame and slide, following the provided instructions. Once the pistol is reassembled, function check it thoroughly. This is essential to confirm that the trigger functions correctly and that the safety mechanisms are working as intended. Dry-fire the pistol several times, ensuring that the trigger breaks cleanly and that the reset is crisp and positive. Finally, perform a live-fire test to verify the trigger’s performance under live-fire conditions. If you are at all uncertain about any step in the process, it is best to consult with a qualified gunsmith.
Testing and Performance
To accurately assess the performance of the Mcarbo Trigger kit, a thorough testing methodology is crucial. This should involve both objective measurements and subjective evaluations.
Objective Testing
The most important objective test is to measure the trigger pull weight. This can be done using a trigger pull gauge, which is a calibrated tool designed to measure the force required to break the trigger. The trigger pull weight should be measured *before* the installation of the Mcarbo trigger and *after* the installation. This provides a clear comparison of the improvement in pull weight. Take multiple measurements and calculate an average for the most accurate results.
Subjective Evaluation
The feel of the trigger pull is also a critical factor. This is a subjective evaluation, but it is very important. Consider the following:
- Smoothness: Does the trigger feel smooth throughout the pull, or does it have any grittiness or binding?
- Creep: How much movement is there before the trigger breaks? Less creep is generally desirable for increased accuracy.
- Break: Is the break crisp and clean, or does it have a mushy feel?
- Reset: How short and distinct is the reset? A shorter, more pronounced reset allows for faster follow-up shots.
Accuracy Testing
Accuracy testing will provide another valuable set of data. This can be done by firing the Hellcat Pro at a target at a set distance, both before and after the trigger upgrade. Shooting from a supported position, such as a bench, can help to eliminate variables and provide more reliable results. The shooter should fire multiple groups of shots and compare the size and consistency of the groups.
The results of the testing should be carefully analyzed. Compare the trigger pull weight, feel, and reset of the stock trigger with those of the Mcarbo trigger. Quantify the reduction in trigger pull weight and describe any differences in the feel of the pull and reset. Note any changes in accuracy or shooting performance. Consider the shooter’s personal shooting experience, noting any changes in shot placement consistency.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of the Mcarbo Trigger
The Mcarbo Trigger kit for the Hellcat Pro offers several potential benefits. The most prominent is the reduction in trigger pull weight. A lighter pull can improve accuracy by minimizing the chance of disrupting the pistol during the shot. The smoother action and reduced creep will result in a more predictable break, also contributing to enhanced accuracy. The shorter and more positive reset enhances the shooter’s capacity for rapid follow-up shots.
Beyond the direct performance enhancements, the Mcarbo kit can also improve the overall shooting experience. A better trigger can simply make shooting more enjoyable, leading to more practice and increased proficiency. The Mcarbo kit often represents good value for the investment. The improvements offered in trigger feel and performance can be considered significant, and the components are generally well made. The customer service from Mcarbo is generally well-regarded, offering helpful support to the user.
Potential Drawbacks
As with any modification, there are also potential downsides to consider. The cost of the kit is a factor to weigh. While the price is generally reasonable, it is still an added expense. The complexity of the installation, while manageable for many users, can be intimidating for those with limited experience in firearm maintenance. A lack of proper tools or experience could lead to accidental damage of the weapon.
It is crucial to thoroughly function-check the pistol after installation to ensure the trigger and safety mechanisms function correctly. If a user is at all uncertain, then a gunsmith should do the installation to ensure the pistol operates correctly.
Conclusion
The Mcarbo Trigger for the Springfield Hellcat Pro offers a compelling upgrade for users looking to enhance their shooting experience. The benefits in terms of a lighter pull weight, smoother action, and improved reset are noticeable. The installation, while requiring care and attention, is within the reach of many firearm owners.
Overall, the Mcarbo Trigger kit presents a valuable upgrade for those seeking to improve their Hellcat Pro’s performance. It makes the pistol more pleasant to shoot and can contribute to improved accuracy and a better overall shooting experience. For users looking for that edge in their concealed carry pistol, the Mcarbo Trigger is an upgrade that is worth considering.
For those looking to further refine the trigger, the Mcarbo kit provides a great value that is both accessible and effective.
Disclaimer: Modifying firearms can have legal implications depending on your local laws. Please ensure you understand and comply with all applicable regulations before making any modifications to your firearm.
