Ensure you’re prepared for any situation with the Hornady Critical Defense .357 Magnum 125gr FTX – the ultimate choice for reliable self-defense ammunition. Engineered for personal protection, this premium handgun ammo delivers consistent performance in critical moments, combining advanced bullet technology with low-flash propellants to keep you in control without compromising on power.
Key Features
- Patented FTX Bullet Technology: The 125-grain Flex Tip eXpanding bullet features a polymer tip that initiates reliable expansion upon impact, creating large wound channels while resisting clogging from heavy clothing or barriers – ideal for real-world self-defense scenarios.
- Low-Flash, Low-Recoil Propellant: Reduces muzzle flash for better night vision retention and manageable recoil, allowing faster follow-up shots even in compact revolvers.
- Nickel-Plated Brass Casings: Provides smooth feeding, corrosion resistance, and reliable extraction, ensuring flawless performance round after round.
- Proven Terminal Ballistics: Delivers consistent penetration and expansion in ballistic gel tests, meeting the demands of home defense and concealed carry users.
Specifications
- Caliber: .357 Magnum
- Bullet Weight: 125 grains
- Bullet Type: Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) Jacketed Hollow Point
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,500 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 624 ft-lbs
- Ballistic Coefficient: .150
- Sectional Density: .140
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Casing Material: Nickel-Plated Brass
- Lead-Free: No
Why Choose Hornady Critical Defense .357 Magnum Ammo?
In the high-stakes world of self-defense, reliability is non-negotiable. Traditional hollow points can fail to expand through barriers like denim or jackets, leading to inconsistent stopping power. The Hornady FTX design solves this by ensuring rapid, controlled expansion for maximum energy transfer and reduced overpenetration risk – addressing common concerns for revolver owners using .357 Magnum for concealed carry or home protection.
This ammo excels in short-barreled firearms, maintaining velocity and accuracy without excessive recoil that could hinder quick target reacquisition. Whether you’re defending your home or carrying daily, it offers peace of mind backed by Hornady’s rigorous testing for superior performance in diverse conditions.
Upgrade your defensive loadout today and experience the difference in quality .357 Magnum self-defense ammunition that prioritizes your safety and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hornady Critical Defense .357 Magnum suitable for short-barreled revolvers?
A: Yes, its design optimizes performance in compact firearms, delivering reliable expansion and velocity from 2-inch barrels while keeping recoil manageable for faster shots.
Q: How does the FTX bullet compare to standard hollow points for self-defense?
A: The FTX’s polymer tip prevents clogging and promotes consistent expansion through clothing, providing deeper penetration and larger wound channels than many traditional JHPs.
Q: Can this ammo be used for home defense?
A: Absolutely, its low-flash propellant minimizes visual disruption in low-light environments, and the balanced ballistics ensure effective stopping power without excessive overpenetration.

