Hornady's offering in the 10mm Auto Critical Duty line brings the power of this cartridge to bear in a duty-oriented package. The 175-grain FlexLock bullet is designed to meet FBI protocol tests, demonstrating its ability to perform through barriers like auto glass and heavy clothing. This ammunition features nickel-plated cases for smooth feeding in semi-automatic pistols and added resistance to moisture. While primarily aimed at law enforcement, it's also available to civilians looking for a robust self-defense option. The 10mm Auto cartridge's power is harnessed here to provide a balance of penetration and expansion in critical situations.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
| Caliber | 10mm Auto |
| Bullet Weight | 175 grain |
| Bullet Type | FlexLock |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1160 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 523 ft-lbs |
| Ballistic Coefficient | .160 |
| Sectional Density | .156 |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Application | Personal Protection/Law Enforcement |
| Features | Flex Tip technology, InterLock band, Cannelured bullet |
| Case Material | Nickel-Plated Brass |
Key Features:
The Hornady 10mm Auto Critical Duty 175gr FlexLock Ammo offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for self-defense and hunting applications. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| FlexLock Bullet | Patented Flex Tip design Initiates consistent expansion while preventing clogging |
| InterLock Band | Heavy duty jacket-to-core bond Keeps bullet and core from separating for maximum weight retention |
| Bullet Weight | 175 grains Optimal weight for 10mm Auto caliber |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1160 fps High velocity for improved terminal performance |
| Nickel-Plated Cases | Corrosion resistant Enhances low-light chamber checks and improves feeding |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Law Enforcement: Designed specifically for law enforcement and tactical professionals in urban environments
- Personal Defense: Excellent choice for civilian personal protection due to its barrier penetration capabilities
- Home Defense: Reliable performance through common household barriers
- Duty Carry: Ideal for law enforcement officers as a duty ammunition
- Training: Can be used for training to familiarize with duty ammunition characteristics
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ FlexLock Bullet Design: Patented Flex Tip initiates consistent expansion while preventing clogging.
- ✔ InterLock Band: Keeps bullet and core from separating for maximum weight retention.
- ✔ Nickel-Plated Cases: Corrosion-resistant and durable, they enhance visibility for quick and reliable chamber checks in low-light conditions.
- ✔ High Performance: 1160 fps muzzle velocity and 523 ft-lbs of energy for effective stopping power.
- ✔ Law Enforcement Grade: Designed to meet strict standards for tactical professionals and law enforcement.
Cons
- ✘ Recoil: 10mm Auto cartridge may produce significant recoil, especially in smaller firearms.
- ✘ Cost: Premium defensive ammunition typically comes at a higher price point.
- ✘ Overpenetration Risk: High-performance rounds may pose increased risk of overpenetration in some situations.
- ✘ Limited Practice: Cost and recoil may limit regular practice with this specific defensive load.
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 high-quality ammunition, reloading tools, and components. Hornady's commitment to excellence is evident in products like their Critical Duty line, which features advanced technologies such as the FlexLock bullet design. This design incorporates the patented Flex Tip that initiates consistent expansion while preventing clogging, and the InterLock band that keeps the bullet and core from separating. Hornady's U.S.-based manufacturing facilities utilize advanced technology and strict quality control measures to guarantee that every round meets its high standards. The company's dedication to research and development has led to numerous breakthroughs in ammunition technology, making Hornady a trusted name among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike.
