Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115 Grain FTX ammunition delivers reliable, consistent performance when it matters most — purpose-built for concealed carry and everyday personal protection.
- 115-grain FTX bullet engineered for reliable, controlled expansion on impact
- Nickel-plated cases improve visibility and smooth feeding in low-light conditions
- Muzzle velocity of 1,140 fps ensures effective terminal performance downrange
- Low-flash propellant formula protects night vision during defensive situations
- Optimized for short-barreled handguns without sacrificing consistent pressure or velocity
- Conveniently packaged in 25-round boxes, ideal for range training and carry use
Who This Is For
Hornady Critical Defense 9mm is the go-to choice for concealed carry holders, home defenders, and responsible gun owners who demand dependable expansion and proven terminal performance from a trusted ammunition brand. It's equally well-suited for law enforcement personnel and anyone prioritizing stopping power and reliability in a self-defense load.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Bullet Weight | 115 Grain |
| Bullet Type | FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,140 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 332 ft-lbs |
| Case Type | Nickel-Plated Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Application | Personal Defense / Concealed Carry |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the FTX bullet different from standard hollow points?
The Hornady FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding) bullet features a patented elastomer tip that initiates reliable expansion on impact, even when passing through heavy clothing. Unlike traditional hollow points that can become clogged with fabric or debris, the FTX tip prevents plugging and ensures consistent, controlled expansion for improved terminal performance in real-world defensive scenarios.
Is this ammunition suitable for compact and subcompact 9mm pistols?
Yes. Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115 Grain FTX is specifically engineered to perform reliably in short-barreled handguns, including compact and subcompact pistols commonly used for concealed carry. The low-flash propellant formula and pressure optimization ensure consistent velocity and expansion even from shorter barrels where many loads lose effectiveness.
Can I use Critical Defense ammunition for range practice as well as carry?
While Critical Defense is optimized and priced for defensive carry use, many shooters use it for function testing and familiarization at the range to confirm reliable feeding and ejection in their specific firearm. For high-volume target practice, Hornady's American Gunner or a standard FMJ load is a more cost-effective option, with Critical Defense reserved for carry and defensive drills.
- Caliber:
- 9MM
- Bullet Weight:
- 115 GR
- BulletType:
- FT
- Type:
- Pistol Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No