HORNADY - 38 SPL - 110 GR - FT - 25 RDS/BOX

Hornady
MPN:
90310
UPC:
090255903102
$34.69
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The Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special 110-grain FTX is a purpose-built personal protection load engineered to deliver consistent, reliable expansion in every situation — from everyday concealed carry to home defense.

  • 110-grain FTX bullet delivers controlled, reliable expansion on impact
  • Muzzle velocity of 1,010 fps optimized for short-barreled revolvers
  • Nickel-plated brass cases improve visibility and smooth feeding in low light
  • Premium low-flash propellants protect night vision during defensive use
  • Flex Tip design prevents tip deformation in tubular magazines and speedloaders
  • 25 rounds per box — ideal for carry rotation and regular practice sessions

Who This Is For

This load is ideal for concealed carry permit holders, home defenders, and range shooters who rely on a .38 Special revolver as their primary defensive firearm. Whether you're running a snub-nose like the S&W 642, a Ruger LCR, or a full-size service revolver, the Critical Defense FTX is engineered to perform where it matters most — when lives are on the line.

Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special 110gr FTX ammunition box front view Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special FTX cartridge detail and nickel-plated cases

Specifications

BrandHornady
LineCritical Defense
Caliber.38 Special
Bullet Weight110 Grain
Bullet TypeFTX (Flex Tip Expanding)
Muzzle Velocity1,010 fps
Muzzle Energy249 ft-lbs
Case TypeNickel-Plated Brass
Primer TypeBoxer, Non-Corrosive
Rounds Per Box25
Intended UsePersonal Protection / Concealed Carry
Part Number90310

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this ammunition work reliably in short-barreled snub-nose revolvers?

Yes — Hornady specifically engineered the Critical Defense .38 Special load for reliable performance in short-barreled revolvers with barrel lengths as short as 1.875 inches. The low-flash propellant is tuned to deliver consistent velocity and expansion even from compact guns like the S&W 642 or Ruger LCR, making it one of the best choices for snub-nose concealed carry.

What makes the FTX bullet different from a standard hollow point?

The Hornady FTX (Flex Tip Expanding) bullet features a soft, flexible polymer tip that sits inside the hollow point cavity. This tip prevents the cavity from clogging with clothing, denim, or debris — a common failure point for traditional hollow points. Upon impact, the tip is driven inward, initiating consistent, controlled expansion regardless of intermediate barriers.

Can I use this ammo for target practice, or is it strictly a carry load?

While the Critical Defense FTX is optimized for defensive use and is priced accordingly, it can certainly be fired at the range. Many shooters recommend running a box through your carry revolver periodically to ensure reliable function and to become familiar with the load's recoil characteristics. For high-volume practice, a standard FMJ .38 Special load will be more economical — saving the Critical Defense rounds for carry rotation and periodic function testing.

Caliber:
38 SPL
Bullet Weight:
110 GR
BulletType:
FT
Type:
Pistol Ammunition
Box Quantity:
25
Case Quantity:
250
Lead Free:
No