Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Brass Centerfire 25 Rounds FTX 90300

Hornady’s Critical Defense Lite 38 Special ammunition is built for shooters who want dependable defensive performance with reduced recoil and excellent control. Designed around real‑world personal‑protection needs, this lighter‑weight 90‑grain FTX bullet delivers fast, reliable expansion and consistent penetration without the heavy snap often associated with traditional defensive .38 Special loads. It’s a strong choice for new shooters, small‑frame revolvers, or anyone who wants a controllable round that still performs when the stakes are high.

At the heart of the Critical Defense Lite design is Hornady’s patented Flex Tip eXpanding bullet. Unlike conventional hollow points that can clog with fabric or struggle to expand when pushed through thick clothing, the Flex Tip insert keeps the cavity clear and ensures uniform expansion on impact. This consistency makes the round exceptionally reliable in close‑quarters and short‑barreled revolvers, where ammunition needs to perform flawlessly from the first shot to the last.

Its reduced recoil comes from carefully matched propellants that burn quickly and cleanly, delivering a crisp 1200 fps muzzle velocity and 288 ft‑lbs of energy. The lighter charge helps minimize muzzle rise and allows for faster, more accurate follow‑up shots—critical advantages when every second matters. With predictable handling and smooth shooting characteristics, Critical Defense Lite gives shooters the confidence of a round that won’t overpower them while still delivering decisive terminal performance.

Hornady also equips this load with corrosion‑resistant brass casings and reliable boxer primers for smooth feeding, consistent ignition, and easy chamber checks in low‑light environments. Every component is engineered to function as part of a unified defensive system, providing stable pressure, dependable cycling, and long‑term durability. Packaged in a 25‑round box, it’s an ideal option for home defense or personal carry, offering the balance of performance and shootability that many revolver owners look for.

The Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special FTX load delivers dependable energy, reduced recoil, and proven bullet technology for modern defensive needs.

The lightweight brass FTX 38 Special load built for smooth shooting and reliable defensive use. 

Specifications:

Brand: Hornady
Category: Centerfire Handgun Rounds
Model: Critical Duty
Caliber: 38 Special
Rounds Per Box: 25
Casing Material: Brass
Muzzle Energy: 288 ft-lbs
Muzzle Velocity: 1200 fps
Application: Home Defense
Bullet Weight: 90 gr