Hornady Critical Defense Lite .38 Special 90 Grain FTX ammunition is purpose-built for shooters who want dependable personal protection performance with reduced recoil and outstanding control. Designed specifically for real-world defensive situations, this premium load combines Hornady's proven Flex Tip eXpanding bullet technology with carefully engineered ballistics to deliver reliable expansion, consistent penetration, and faster follow-up shots. Whether you're carrying a compact revolver for personal protection or keeping one ready for home defense, this ammunition offers the confidence that comes from premium defensive engineering.
At the heart of every cartridge is Hornady's 90-grain Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) bullet. Unlike conventional hollow points that can become clogged by heavy clothing and fail to expand consistently, the patented polymer Flex Tip keeps the hollow cavity clear, promoting reliable expansion even after passing through common barriers. This innovative design helps produce consistent terminal performance while maintaining the penetration needed for effective defensive use. The lightweight bullet also contributes to the reduced recoil characteristics that define the Critical Defense Lite series.
Generating a muzzle velocity of 1,200 feet per second and 288 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, this .38 Special load delivers an impressive balance of speed and controllability. Hornady carefully matched the powder charge to the lightweight projectile, creating a smooth-shooting round that minimizes muzzle rise without sacrificing dependable performance. The result is a defensive load that allows shooters to recover quickly between shots and maintain better control during rapid-fire situations. This makes it an excellent choice for new shooters, those with lightweight revolvers, or anyone seeking reduced recoil without compromising effectiveness.
Every cartridge is assembled using premium brass casings for dependable chambering, reliable extraction, and long-term durability. Corrosion-resistant brass helps ensure the ammunition remains dependable during extended carry, while quality Boxer primers provide consistent ignition under demanding conditions. Hornady's meticulous manufacturing standards ensure every round delivers the uniform performance defensive shooters expect when reliability matters most.
Packaged in a convenient 25-round box, Critical Defense Lite ammunition gives shooters enough rounds to verify reliability in their firearm while maintaining a supply for personal protection. With a ballistic coefficient of .095 and a sectional density of .101, the carefully engineered FTX projectile offers stable flight characteristics and dependable accuracy at typical defensive distances.
Hornady has earned a reputation for innovative ammunition technology, and the Critical Defense Lite line continues that tradition. Combining reduced recoil, advanced bullet design, and premium components, this .38 Special load provides an excellent solution for revolver owners who want smooth handling, dependable expansion, and the confidence to perform when every second counts.
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