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Critical Defense Ammo Overview
Hornady introduced Critical Defense ammo to provide reliable self-defense performance using polymer-tipped projectiles designed to expand consistently. Its design focuses on barrier penetration and controlled expansion for maximum stopping power. Currently, Critical Defense is popular among law enforcement and civilians for concealed carry and home defense rounds.
Why Critical Defense Ammo Stands Out
- Consistent expansion through polymer tip design
- Reliable performance through common barriers
- Wide availability in multiple calibers
- Reduced risk of over-penetration
- Trusted by professionals and self-defense users
Key Variants
Critical Defense 9mm
Ideal for compact pistols, balancing compact size with effective terminal performance.
Critical Defense .40 S&W
Offers a middle ground between 9mm and .45 ACP for duty and personal protection.
Critical Defense .45 ACP
Provides strong stopping power with controlled expansion in larger calibers.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Critical Defense Ammo | Critical Duty | Federal HST |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $30–$40/box | $35–$45/box | $32–$42/box |
| Calibers | 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP | 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP | 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP |
| Velocity (fps) | 950–1,200 | 1,100–1,250 | 975–1,140 |
| Expansion | Consistent polymer tip | Higher energy, deeper penetration | Reliable barrier penetration |
| Notable Pro | Balanced expansion and penetration | Optimized for hard targets | Trusted law enforcement round |
| Notable Con | Moderate recoil in larger calibers | Higher cost | Less expansion in soft barriers |
Best Use Cases
- Concealed carry self-defense
- Home protection
- Law enforcement backup
- Range training with defensive ammo
- Personal collection for defensive rounds
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Critical Defense ammo in my standard handgun?
Yes, Critical Defense ammunition works well in most handguns chambered for its respective calibers, functioning reliably with factory magazines and barrels.
What is the polymer tip on Critical Defense rounds?
The polymer tip initiates consistent expansion upon impact, improving terminal performance and reducing the risk of over-penetration.
How does Critical Defense compare to Critical Duty ammo?
Critical Duty is designed for penetration through hard barriers, while Critical Defense focuses on balanced expansion and penetration for typical self-defense scenarios.
