HORNADY - 9MM - 135 GR - FLEXLOCK DUTY - 25 RDS/BOX

The FlexLock bullet features Hornady's patented Flex Tip technology — a soft polymer tip seated inside the hollow point cavity that initiates reliable expansion even after passing through heavy denim, auto glass, sheet metal, wallboard, and other common urban barriers. Unlike traditional hollow points that can plug and fail to expand after barrier penetration, the FlexLock's tip presses inward on impact to trigger consistent, controlled expansion. The InterLock band mechanically locks the jacket to the lead core, ensuring the bullet stays together and retains maximum weight for deeper, more reliable penetration.

Hornady engineered the 135gr Critical Duty specifically for full-size service pistols with longer barrel lengths (typically 4–5 inches), where the powder charge has enough dwell time to reach its optimal velocity of 1,010 fps. If you're carrying a compact or subcompact 9mm with a shorter barrel, Hornady offers the Critical Duty +P 135gr variant or their Critical Defense line, which are better optimized for shorter barrels. Always verify your pistol's compatibility and consult the manufacturer's recommendations for +P ammunition if considering that option.

Yes — many professionals and serious shooters train with their actual carry load to ensure complete familiarity with recoil characteristics, point of impact, and feeding reliability. Hornady Critical Duty is loaded to consistent, tight tolerances that mirror duty-carry performance, making it an excellent training round. However, because premium defensive ammunition costs more per round than bulk FMJ practice ammo, a common approach is to conduct the majority of range work with comparable-weight FMJ loads and periodically confirm zero and function with your actual carry rounds.