Gear Up: A Year in Review Featuring Springfield Armory

As we get ready to move into a new year, and begin planning the editorial calendar at The WON, I decided to read back through the 2022 Gear Up posts. Following is my year in review of my favorites.

Sponsored by Springfield Armory

People often begin the new year by setting goals. In the first Gear Up post of the year, “Pistol Training Goals for 2022,” I did this just. I shared my three goals: reading, strength training and red-dot practice. For 2023, I’m going to continue those, as well as add in another. But that will have to wait for January’s post. 

Dry Fire red dot optic

Did you see the new Springfield Armory clothing line at Alexo Athletica? In the article, “Alexo Athletica X Springfield Armory Active Wear,” I modeled and reviewed the new items I received from the collaboration of these two companies. I’m still loving the addition to my wardrobe and can’t wait to see what’s added to the line in 2023. 

Alexo Athletica X Springfield Armory Active Wear outfit 1

In “A Tale of Two Springfield Armory Hellcats,” I compared Springfield’s Hellcat Micro-Compact to its Hellcat Pro. Since then, I’ve put numerous rounds through the Hellcat Pro during training classes and am very happy with the results. I also continue to use the Hellcat Micro-Compact as my EDC.

Springfield armory Hellcats

I received a lot of feedback from people who work and shop in gun stores after “Gun Store Etiquette and Tips” went live in the Gear Up column. Apparently, there are quite a few people out there who need to read this information. Spread the word and make visiting a store that sells firearms a little safer!

gun store
Checking for clear chamber

In July, Babbs reviewed Springfield Armory’s Hellion. She put this bullpup, chambered in 5.56x45mm/5.56 NATO, through numerous tests on her range. When deciding if a woman would use a firearm such as this one, her answer was, “Yes! Not only is it compact, and comes with an adjustable stock, each magazine holds up to 30 rounds. It would be the perfect ‘truck gun’ or home defense gun.”

Hellion truck gun

After attending a vehicle defense course, I wrote a two-part series sharing many of the tips I learned about defending myself in and around vehicles. 

springfield hellcat and GTM purse

All Things Vehicle Defense Course: Mindset

Getting out of car

All Things Vehicle Defense Course: Lessons Learned

I’m super excited about future posts I already have planned for the Gear Up column. Be sure to follow The WON on social media, or sign up for email alerts

Prodigy unboxing

In the meantime, in case you missed any Gear Up articles, follow this link for past articles. 

To see everything Springfield Armory has to offer, check out its website.

  • About Michelle Cerino

    Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and GTM Original. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore.