Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR 45gr FTX Ammunition - 50 Rounds

Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR 45gr FTX ammunition brings serious defensive capability to compact rimfire handguns and rifles. This 50-round box of .22 Magnum delivers Hornady's proven Flex Tip technology in a cartridge built specifically for personal protection scenarios where shot placement and reliability matter as much as caliber. The .22 WMR's flat trajectory and minimal recoil make it accessible to shooters of all experience levels, while Critical Defense ammunition maximizes what this round can deliver when it counts.

The standout feature here is the FTX bullet design. That Flex Tip polymer insert does two jobs at once: it initiates expansion on impact while preventing the hollow-point cavity from clogging when the bullet passes through clothing or other barriers. In defensive scenarios, cloth cover is a real-world consideration, and this engineering addresses it directly. You get more consistent expansion when it matters.

The nickel-plated cases aren't just for looks. They resist corrosion, which extends the life of ammo stored in your nightstand or go-bag. Hornady also specified low-flash propellants that preserve your night vision if you ever need to shoot in low light and maintain situational awareness. The powder burns efficiently, keeping recoil and muzzle flash in check—important traits for a defensive round in a compact gun.

Critical Defense .22 WMR pairs well with small, lightweight handguns and takedown rifles favored by hikers, overlanders, and anyone who values a capable backup gun that doesn't add weight to their carry. Whether you're building a truck gun, home-defense setup, or deep-wilderness backup, Hornady built this load with a clear mission in mind.

Key Features

• Flex Tip technology for reliable expansion without hollow-point clogging
• Nickel-plated cases for corrosion resistance and low-light visibility
• Low-flash propellants preserve night vision and reduce muzzle flash
• Optimized for .22 WMR defensive handguns and rifles
• 50-round box for convenient storage and resupply

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What firearms does Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR work in?

This ammunition is designed for any firearm chambered in .22 WMR, including dedicated defensive handguns and rimfire rifles. Always verify your firearm's caliber marking before loading.

What is the Flex Tip and why does it matter for self-defense?

The patented Flex Tip is a polymer insert in the bullet's hollow point that aids expansion on impact while preventing the cavity from becoming clogged with fabric or other barriers when passing through clothing. This helps ensure more consistent expansion in real-world defensive situations.

Why are the cases nickel-plated?

Nickel plating resists corrosion, extending the shelf life of stored ammunition. The bright finish also makes rounds easier to spot during chamber checks in low-light conditions.

Is Critical Defense .22 WMR suitable for hunting small game?

Critical Defense is engineered specifically for personal defense applications. For hunting, consult Hornady's hunting-focused ammunition lines designed for that purpose.