Hornady Expands Critical Defense Rifle Ammo Line

by
posted on November 28, 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. **
hornady_lede.jpg (1)
Hornady has expanded its Critical Defense ammunition line by bringing in new rifle calibers to the personal-defense oriented product lineup. The new chamberings include two options in .223 Rem., one loaded with a 55-gr. bullet and the other loaded with a 73-gr. bullet. The other addition in .308 Win. provides users with a 155-gr. bullet.

Each round is loaded with the company's patented FTX bullet design, which incorporates a unique Flex Tip that is designed to ensure that the bullets expand quickly and reliably, even after passing through thick clothing and other barriers. 

The ammunition is also loaded in bright, polished, nickel-plated cases. The use of nickel-plated cases provides a couple of benefits. First, the slick casing ensures that rifle function is unimpeded by the ammo itself, thanks to the added lubricity offered by the nickel plating. Second, the bright nickel can be seen easily, even in low-light situations, making it simple to check if a rifle is loaded.

In addition to the FTX bullet and the nickel-plated case, Hornady also formulated a special propellant designed to reduce muzzle flash and recoil, preserving night vision.

Designed for short-range defensive situations, Critical Defense Rifle delivers quick expansion for reduced potential of over-penetration.


For more information visit hornady.com 

Latest

Colt-Burgess Rifle
Colt-Burgess Rifle

I Have This Old Gun: Colt-Burgess Rifle

There was a time when firearm manufacturers were primarily known for producing only one specific type of gun. In fact, their fame, reputations and, often, their fortunes hinged upon it.

2026 NRA Youth Education Summit Applications Open

Applications are now open for the 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), an all-expenses-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program for rising high school juniors and seniors.

The Rifleman Report: The Misrepresented Armed Citizen

Despite what mainstream news outlets would have us believe, most armed citizens are thoughtful, deliberate, responsible Americans whose foremost concerns are the well-being of themselves and their families.

First Breach Ammunition Factory Tour

An ambitious and technically savvy startup embarks on the goal to bring match-grade cartridges to the market at an enviable price—all made in America.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 27, 2025

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

The Development of MIM Cartridge Cases

We recently caught up with Concurrent Technologies to learn more about its latest advancements in metal injection molding (MIM) as it pertains to cartridge case manufacturing.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.