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

Bushmaster V-Radicator
Bushmaster V-Radicator

Review: Bushmaster V-Radicator

The business of dispatching unwanted critters requires a platform capable of a high degree of accuracy. Nuisance animals such as prairie dogs are both small and skittish in nature, meaning that they tend to keep their distance and scurry away upon the arrival of incoming fire.

New for 2026: Smith & Wesson FPC in 5.7x28 mm

The folding carbine line expands to include the 5.7 mm chambering.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 26, 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.

New For 2026: Vortex Optics AMG 1-10X 24 mm FFP Riflescope

The Vortex Optics AMG 1-10X 24 mm FFP riflescope is the shortest and lightest FFP 1-10X low-power variable optic made available to the U.S. commercial market.

New for 2026: Armasight Pro Series Thermal Platform

Armasight launches a professional-grade thermal-imaging platform designed to perform.

KelTec Launches KelTec Direct

KelTec begins its 35th anniversary celebration by launching KelTec Direct.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.