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

Derya MAX 01
Derya MAX 01

Maxed Out: Derya's New MAX Shotgun

The Derya Arms MAX is a new semi-auto shotgun designed for serious competitive shooters that is made entirely in the USA.

Breaking Through the "Bulletproof Bubble"

The "Bulletproof Bubble" is one of the most frustrating things a shooter can experience, because it doesn't make any sense. Every round seems to land all around the exact center of your point of aim instead of in it.

Sharpen Your Shooting Skills: Prairie Dogs

Reactive targets, such as prairie dogs, offer many lessons about one’s long-range abilities.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 7, 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.

Gun of the Week: Zev Technologies x Magpul FDP-C

One of the most anticipated firearm releases of 2026 was the Zev Technologies FDP, a folding pistol-caliber design that the company produced in conjunction with Magpul Industries.

Review: Taurus 22TUC

Taurus USA's 22TUC is a little, polymer-framed .22 pocket pistol with a tip-up barrel design that, unlike many of the company's guns, is made entirely in the United States.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.