The Hornady Critical Duty 357 Magnum 135 Grain FlexLock is purpose-built defensive ammunition engineered for law enforcement professionals and serious concealed carriers who require reliable, consistent terminal performance through real-world barriers.
- 357 Magnum cartridge loaded with a 135-grain FlexLock projectile
- Muzzle velocity of 1,275 fps delivers powerful, flat-shooting performance
- FlexLock bullet provides "barrier blind" expansion through glass, drywall, and steel
- Patented Flex Tip initiates controlled expansion at all velocity ranges
- InterLock band keeps bullet and core locked together for maximum weight retention
- Conveniently packaged in 25-round boxes for duty carry and range qualification
Who This Is For
Hornady Critical Duty 357 Mag is designed for law enforcement officers, armed security professionals, and responsible civilians who carry a full-size revolver or lever-action carbine for personal protection. If you need ammunition that performs consistently after passing through clothing, auto glass, plywood, or drywall — the barriers you actually encounter in an urban self-defense scenario — this load was built for exactly that mission.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 357 Magnum |
| Bullet Weight | 135 Grain |
| Bullet Type | FlexLock (Critical Duty) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,275 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | ~487 ft-lbs |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Casing | Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer, Reloadable |
| Application | Duty / Self-Defense |
| SKU / Item | Hornady #90511 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the FlexLock bullet differ from a standard hollow point?
Traditional hollow points can plug with material when passing through intermediate barriers like clothing or auto glass, preventing proper expansion. Hornady's FlexLock bullet features a patented Flex Tip insert that resists plugging and initiates reliable expansion even after passing through common urban barriers. The InterLock band also mechanically locks the jacket to the core, ensuring the bullet retains its weight and drives deep into the target for consistent terminal performance.
Is this ammunition suitable for both revolvers and lever-action rifles chambered in 357 Magnum?
Yes. Hornady Critical Duty 357 Magnum is safe to fire in any firearm chambered for the 357 Magnum cartridge, including revolvers and lever-action rifles. Keep in mind that muzzle velocity will vary depending on barrel length — longer barrels will generally produce higher velocities, while snub-nose revolvers may see reduced performance. For optimal barrier-blind performance, Hornady recommends use in full-size handguns with a barrel length of 4 inches or more.
How should I store this ammunition and what is its shelf life?
Store Hornady Critical Duty ammunition in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and humidity. When stored properly in its original packaging, modern brass-cased, Boxer-primed ammunition like this can remain reliable for ten years or more. Avoid storing ammo in vehicle glove boxes or areas subject to temperature extremes, and always inspect cartridges for signs of corrosion or damage before loading them for carry or duty use.
- Caliber:
- 357 MAG
- Bullet Weight:
- 135 GR
- Bullet Type:
- FlexLock Duty
- Type:
- Pistol Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No