The Hornady Critical Defense .380 ACP 90 Grain FTX is purpose-built for concealed carry, delivering reliable expansion and proven terminal performance from compact, short-barreled handguns where consistency matters most.
- 90 Grain FTX bullet engineered for consistent, reliable expansion on impact
- Muzzle velocity of 1,000 fps optimized for short-barreled .380 pistols
- Nickel-plated cases enhance visibility and feeding reliability in low-light
- Premium low-flash propellants protect night vision during defensive use
- Flex Tip technology prevents tip deformation for dependable cycling
- 25 rounds per box — ideal for carry loads and defensive practice
Who This Is For
This ammunition is ideal for concealed carry permit holders and personal protection shooters who rely on compact .380 ACP pistols such as the Ruger LCP, Glock 42, or Sig Sauer P238. Whether you're stocking your everyday carry magazine or evaluating a new defensive load, Hornady Critical Defense offers the consistent performance and engineering that serious self-defense shooters demand.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .380 ACP |
| Bullet Weight | 90 Grain |
| Bullet Type | FTX (Flex Tip Expanding) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,000 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 200 ft-lbs |
| Case Type | Nickel-Plated Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Application | Personal Defense / Concealed Carry |
| Part Number | 90080 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the FTX bullet better for self-defense than standard hollow points?
The Hornady Flex Tip Expanding (FTX) bullet features a soft elastomer tip that fills the hollow point cavity, preventing it from clogging with clothing, denim, or debris during penetration. This ensures the bullet expands reliably upon impact even when passing through heavy materials — a common failure point for traditional hollow point designs in real-world defensive situations.
Is this ammunition compatible with my compact or subcompact .380 pistol?
Yes. Hornady Critical Defense .380 ACP is specifically formulated to perform in short-barreled, compact pistols — the most popular platform for .380 carry guns. Its low-flash propellant achieves consistent velocity even from barrels as short as 2.75 inches, making it compatible with popular models like the Ruger LCP II, Glock 42, Bodyguard 380, and Sig P238, among others. Always verify your specific firearm's recommended ammunition before use.
How should I store defensive ammunition to maintain reliability?
Store Hornady Critical Defense ammunition in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. The nickel-plated cases offer added corrosion resistance compared to standard brass, which is particularly beneficial for rounds stored in a carry magazine for extended periods. It's also a good practice to rotate your carry ammunition periodically — ideally every 6 to 12 months — to ensure optimal reliability and primer sensitivity.
- Caliber:
- 380 ACP
- Bullet Weight:
- 90 GR
- BulletType:
- FT
- Type:
- Pistol Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No