Hornady Critical Defense .44 S&W Special ammunition is designed for optimal performance in self-defense situations. Featuring a 165-grain Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) bullet, this round offers controlled expansion and deep penetration. The nickel-plated brass cases enhance visibility in low-light conditions and provide smooth feeding and extraction. With a muzzle velocity of 900 fps and muzzle energy of 297 ft-lbs, this ammunition delivers reliable stopping power while minimizing over-penetration risks.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
| Model | Critical Defense |
| Caliber | .44 S&W Special |
| Bullet Weight | 165 grains |
| Bullet Type | Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 900 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 297 ft-lbs |
| Ballistic Coefficient | .125 |
| Sectional Density | .127 |
| Casing Material | Nickel-Plated Brass |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Boxes Per Case | 10 |
| Application | Personal Defense/Home Defense |
| UPC | 090255907001 |
Key Features:
The Hornady .44 S&W Special Critical Defense 165gr FTX Ammo offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for self-defense. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Caliber | 44 S&W Special Powerful handgun cartridge for self-defense |
| Bullet Weight | 165 grains Balanced for optimal performance in short-barreled revolvers |
| Bullet Type | Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) Designed for reliable expansion through various barriers |
| Muzzle Velocity | 900 fps Provides effective stopping power |
| Case Material | Nickel-Plated Brass Enhances reliability and corrosion resistance |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Personal Protection: Ideal for self-defense situations, especially in short-barreled revolvers
- Home Defense: Effective for protecting your home, with controlled expansion to minimize over-penetration
- Concealed Carry: Suitable for concealed carry revolvers chambered in .44 Special
- Law Enforcement Backup: Can serve as a backup ammunition option for law enforcement officers
- Target Practice: While primarily designed for defense, it can be used for familiarization and training with your .44 Special firearm
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ Flex Tip Technology: FTX bullet design ensures reliable expansion through various barriers.
- ✔ Nickel-Plated Cases: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions and improves corrosion resistance.
- ✔ Optimized for Short Barrels: Designed to perform well in compact .44 Special revolvers.
- ✔ Controlled Expansion: Provides deep penetration while creating an effective wound channel.
- ✔ Low Muzzle Flash: Helps preserve night vision in self-defense situations.
Cons
- ✘ Limited Capacity: 20 rounds per box may be insufficient for extended practice sessions.
- ✘ Recoil: 165gr bullet at 900 fps may produce significant recoil in lightweight revolvers.
- ✘ Overpenetration Risk: Powerful .44 Special round may pass through targets in home defense scenarios.
- ✘ Cost: Premium self-defense ammunition is typically more expensive than standard target loads.
About Hornady:
Hornady Manufacturing Company, founded in 1949 by Joyce Hornady, has become a leader in the ammunition industry. Headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska, Hornady has built its reputation on innovation and precision. The company is known for its Critical Defense line, which includes the .44 S&W Special 165gr FTX ammunition. Hornady's commitment to quality is evident in their use of cutting-edge technology, such as the patented Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) bullet design, which ensures reliable expansion and performance. Hornady's dedication to advancing ammunition technology is reflected in products like their Critical Defense line, designed specifically for personal protection. The company's focus on research and development has led to numerous innovations in bullet design and performance, making Hornady a preferred choice among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. With a strong emphasis on ballistic consistency and terminal performance, Hornady continues to set industry standards and push the boundaries of ammunition technology.
