FBI Selects Hornady Critical Duty Ammo

by
posted on October 20, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
critical_duty.jpg

The FBI has chosen Hornady’s Critical Duty 40 S&W 175 gr. Flexlock as its official ammunition. Introduced in 2011, the ammo was designed specifically for on-duty law enforcement and other tactical roles.

“Critical Duty ammunition is the culmination of many years of hard work, research and development and dedication,” said Jason Hornady, vice president of Hornady Mfg. “We are thrilled to obtain this contract from our nation’s highest law enforcement agency as it gives credence to the performance and reliability of this product.”

One of the features that make this load desirable for law enforcement is a patented Flex Tip, which eliminates clogging and aids bullet expansion. Additionally, a large mechanical jacket-to-core InterLock band keeps the bullet and core from separating for maximum weight retention. In all FBI test barriers, the bullet offered excellent expansion, consistent penetration and terminal performance.

Other features that favored this cartridge over others include the bright nickel-plated cases, which simplify chamber checks in reduced light. The ammo uses low-flash, clean-burning propellants, which preserves night vision in low-light firing.

“At Hornady, we’re honored to provide ammunition to the American heroes who put their lives on the line to protect us and our neighbors every day,” said Steve Hornady, president of Hornady Mfg. Co. “This contract is an important part of our corporate history, and it’s a distinct pleasure to fulfill this need for the FBI.”

The agreement is for what is called an IDIQ—Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity. For more, visit Hornady.com.

Additional Reading:
Understanding Hornady’s Critical Defense and Critical Duty Ammo

Latest

Springfield SA 35 4 01
Springfield SA 35 4 01

A New Compact High Power: Springfield Armory's SA-35 4"

Just as the slide and barrel of a full-size 1911 is sometimes shortened to make it more concealable, Springfield Armory is taking its SA-35 pistol and offering it with a shortened 4-inch barrel. 

Mob Defense: How to Stay Safe from a Crowd

Imagine yourself alone or with your family or a small group where you suddenly find yourself in a situation where a mob starts forming up around you and appears hostile. What are some recommended courses of action you can take?

Firearm and Ammo Sales Soaring in Virginia

Ahead of Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger's anticipated signing of a slate of gun-control bills, firearm and ammunition sales are soaring in the Old Dominion.

Review: Ruger Harrier

Ruger’s new Harrier AR-15-style rifle proves to be a great entry-level, multi-purpose carbine.

New For 2026: Canik Mete MC9 Prime Radian

Building on the company's initial Mete MC9 Prime design, Canik added a Radian Weapons Afterburner compensator and Ramjet barrel to create the new MC9 Prime Radian.

The Armed Citizen® April 6, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.