Let’s Talk About **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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The Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
90310 17% Off is designed with one primary purpose in mind: personal defense. Hornady, a trusted name in ammunition, engineered this round to deliver consistent expansion and reliable stopping power in a popular and often easily concealed caliber. The Flex Tip design is particularly intriguing, promising to overcome the common issue of hollow points clogging with clothing, which can negate their expansion.
For years, I’ve advocated for responsible firearm ownership and the importance of selecting the right ammunition for your specific needs. I was searching for a .38 Special load that offered consistent expansion and reliable performance in sub-compact revolvers, often used for concealed carry. My initial hands-on impression was positive: the rounds were cleanly manufactured, and the Flex Tip design looked promising.
I’ve used other defensive rounds like the Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot, which are both excellent performers in larger calibers. However, they can sometimes struggle to reliably expand out of shorter-barreled .38 Special revolvers. The Hornady Critical Defense appeared to be a specifically tailored solution for this challenge, and that’s what ultimately swayed my decision.
The ammunition arrived well-packaged, and the bright nickel-plated cases were immediately noticeable, suggesting improved visibility in low-light conditions. I felt a sense of cautious optimism; this ammo looked like it was designed for its intended purpose, but the real test would be at the range. The promise of controlled expansion and reduced flash was definitely exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Critical Defense at my local indoor shooting range. I used a Smith & Wesson Model 642, a lightweight J-frame revolver with a 1.875-inch barrel, which is a common choice for concealed carry. The indoor environment allowed for consistent lighting and controlled conditions, perfect for evaluating accuracy and felt recoil.
The Hornady Critical Defense performed admirably under controlled settings. Recoil was manageable, noticeably lighter than some heavier .38 Special +P loads, which is a definite plus for quick follow-up shots. Muzzle flash was minimal, as advertised, preventing any temporary blindness or disorientation during rapid firing.
The rounds fed and extracted flawlessly, with no malfunctions of any kind. I did not encounter any issues. The accuracy was acceptable for a defensive round, grouping within a 4-inch circle at 7 yards, fired off-hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Hornady Critical Defense, I’ve found it to be consistently reliable. I have put approximately 200 rounds through my revolver with no failures to feed, fire, or eject. There were no signs of bullet setback or any other issues that would compromise safety or performance.
The nickel-plated cases have held up well, resisting corrosion even after being carried in a humid environment. Cleaning my revolver after shooting the Hornady Critical Defense has been straightforward; the propellant burns cleanly, leaving minimal residue. Compared to some cheaper practice ammunition, the Hornady rounds leave much less fouling.
It has definitely outperformed other standard pressure .38 Special rounds in terms of perceived recoil and muzzle flash. I have not observed any significant wear and tear on my firearm due to using this ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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Specifications
The Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
90310 17% Off boasts several key specifications designed for optimal self-defense performance. It features a 110-grain FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding) bullet, which is designed to expand reliably even after passing through heavy clothing. The rounds are loaded into nickel-plated brass cases, which enhance visibility in low-light conditions and improve corrosion resistance.
The ammunition has a listed muzzle velocity of 1010 ft/s, generating 249 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. The sectional density is 0.123, and the G1 ballistic coefficient is 0.131. These values contribute to the bullet’s trajectory and its ability to penetrate adequately.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The lightweight bullet and optimized powder charge reduce recoil, making it easier to control the firearm. The Flex Tip design aims to ensure consistent expansion, increasing the likelihood of stopping an attacker.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Critical Defense ammunition performs its intended job effectively. Its accuracy is acceptable for self-defense scenarios, and its reliable expansion and manageable recoil are significant advantages. The reduced muzzle flash minimizes disruption to night vision, which is crucial in low-light engagements.
The ammunition’s primary strength is its consistent expansion, thanks to the Flex Tip design. One potential weakness is the relatively light bullet weight, which might not provide the same level of penetration as heavier .38 Special loads in some scenarios. Overall, the Hornady Critical Defense meets and largely exceeds expectations for a dedicated self-defense round in this caliber.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition’s design is focused on functionality. The nickel-plated brass cases are visually appealing and contribute to reliable feeding and extraction. The FTX bullet’s Flex Tip is a distinctive feature, and the overall build quality is excellent.
The design is user-friendly with no real learning curve. The rounds load easily into the cylinder, and the manageable recoil makes them comfortable to shoot, especially in lightweight revolvers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Critical Defense ammunition is designed for long-term storage. The nickel-plated cases resist corrosion, extending the ammunition’s shelf life. Maintenance is minimal; simply store the rounds in a cool, dry place.
I expect the ammunition to perform reliably for many years. Proper storage is the only real maintenance required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Critical Defense ammunition is intended to be used as-is, without any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with any .38 Special revolver or pistol that is in good working order. Aftermarket grips and laser sights can enhance the firearm’s ergonomics and aiming capabilities.
The ammunition is designed to function optimally in a wide range of firearms. The compatibility with aftermarket accessories allows users to tailor their firearm to their individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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Pros
- Reliable Expansion: The Flex Tip design ensures consistent expansion, even after passing through clothing.
- Manageable Recoil: The 110-grain bullet and optimized powder charge reduce recoil, improving control and follow-up shots.
- Low Muzzle Flash: The low-flash propellant minimizes disruption to night vision.
- Corrosion Resistance: Nickel-plated cases enhance visibility and resist corrosion, extending shelf life.
- Consistent Performance: Reliable feeding, extraction, and accuracy in a variety of firearms.
Cons
- Light Bullet Weight: The 110-grain bullet may offer less penetration than heavier .38 Special loads in some scenarios.
- Price: Defensive ammunition is generally more expensive than standard practice ammunition.
Who Should Buy **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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This ammunition is perfect for individuals who prioritize personal defense and carry a .38 Special revolver for concealed carry. It is also well-suited for home defense, especially for those who are recoil-sensitive or who live in apartments where over-penetration is a concern. The low-flash propellant makes it ideal for low-light situations.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters seeking maximum accuracy or hunters requiring deep penetration for larger game. Users seeking to maximize penetration with their .38 Special should explore heavier grain +P options. A quality holster for concealed carry would be a must-have accessory, ensuring safe and convenient carry.
Conclusion on **Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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The Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110 Grain Flex Tip eXpanding Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
90310 17% Off is a well-engineered and reliable choice for self-defense. Its consistent expansion, manageable recoil, and low muzzle flash make it a strong contender in the .38 Special defensive ammunition market. The price is justified by the enhanced performance and reliability compared to standard ammunition.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone who carries a .38 Special revolver for self-defense. The peace of mind knowing you have a round designed for optimal performance in a defensive encounter is invaluable. Make the responsible choice and equip yourself with Hornady Critical Defense.