Description

Hornady Critical Defense is a defensive handgun cartridge line intended for short-barreled and compact pistols. This offering is loaded with a 35‑grain Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) projectile and is specified at 900 feet per second muzzle velocity. The load is configured for personal defense and close-range scenarios where controlled expansion and limited flash are priorities.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: .25 ACP.
• Bullet Weight: 35 grains.
• Bullet Type: FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding).
• Muzzle Velocity: 900 fps.
• Muzzle Energy: 63 ft-lbs.
• Rounds Per Box: 25.
• Units Per Case: 250.
• Reloadable: Yes.
• Application: Home Defense.
• Product Line: Critical Defense.

This Hornady load emphasizes consistent expansion and low-flash performance for compact, short-barreled handguns. The FTX projectile is engineered to reduce plug-related failures and to perform reliably through common clothing layers, while optimized propellants help minimize recoil impulse and muzzle flash. For shooters seeking a compact defensive load with a focus on predictable terminal performance and manageable recoil, this Hornady Critical Defense offering provides a purpose-built option.