The Hornady Critical Defense Lite is a reduced-recoil defensive .38 Special load intended for compact, lightweight handguns and revolvers where minimized felt recoil is desired. It uses Hornady’s FTX polymer-tipped expanding bullet to promote consistent expansion through a variety of clothing types. The offering features nickel-plated brass cases and propellants tuned to limit flash and reduce felt recoil in short-barreled platforms.
Packaging: Box — sold per box (the smaller retail unit); this listing is for a 25-round box. Case — available as a case comprised of 10 boxes for a total of 250 rounds; a case quantity is achieved by ordering the required number of boxes.
Key Specifications
- The cartridge caliber is .38 Special.
- The bullet weight is 90 grains.
- The bullet type is a FTX polymer-tipped expanding projectile.
- The listed muzzle velocity is 1200 fps.
- The listed muzzle energy is 288 ft lbs.
- The packaging quantity is 25 rounds per box.
- The case quantity is 250 rounds (10 boxes).
- The cartridge cases are nickel-plated brass.
- Recommended application is Home Defense.
Hornady Critical Defense Lite delivers a lower-recoil defensive option that maintains consistent expansion and reliable feeding in compact handguns. The combination of the FTX polymer tip, clean-burning propellants, and nickel-plated cases makes this load a practical choice for shooters seeking controllable recoil and reliable terminal performance in short-range defensive scenarios.
Product information is supplied by the manufacturer and/or distributor and may be automatically formatted or enhanced using AI for clarity and consistency. While we strive for accuracy, specifications, features, and included items may change without notice. Always verify details using the manufacturer’s official documentation and the information shown on this product page before purchase or use.
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