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Hornady

Hornady 90236 Critical Duty 9mm 135 GR Flexlock 25 Rounds

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Hornady Critical

135-grain FlexLock bullets

Full-size Handguns

Personal protection use

Nickel-plated Brass

Cases simplify chamber checks in

Low Flash

Propellant helps preserve night vision

Flexlock Bullet

Combines an InterLock band and

$35.99
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SKU: 90236-090255902365

Overview

Built for shooters who want a defensive 9mm load suited to a full-size handgun, this Hornady offering is aimed at personal protection where barrier penetration and consistent performance matter. The nickel-plated brass cases make chamber checks easier in reduced light, while the low-flash propellant is intended to help preserve night vision during low-light use. Its FlexLock bullet combines an InterLock band and Flex Tip design to support controlled expansion and weight retention. Packaged 25 rounds per box, it’s a purpose-driven option for serious handgun owners who prioritize practical defensive features.

Why Hunters Choose the Hornady

Full-size Handguns

In personal protection applications

Bright Nickel-plated

Cases simplify chamber checks in

Low Flash

Propellant helps preserve night vision

Flexlock Bullet

Is built for consistent performance

25-round Box

Practical quantity for range or

Key Features

  • Hornady Critical Duty 9mm Luger ammunition with 135-grain FlexLock bullets.
  • Designed for full-size handguns and personal protection use.
  • Nickel-plated brass cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light.
  • Low flash propellant helps preserve night vision in low-light firing.
  • FlexLock bullet combines an InterLock band and Flex Tip design.
  • 25 rounds per box with listed muzzle velocity of 1010 fps and muzzle energy of 306 ft lbs.

Best Used For

  • Full-size handgun owners seeking a defensive load for personal protection
  • Low-light users who value bright cases and low-flash propellant
  • Shooters wanting barrier penetration with controlled expansion characteristics
  • Buyers looking for 9mm Luger ammunition in a 25-round box

Specifications

Bullet TypeFlexLock
Bullet Weight135 gr
Caliber9mm Luger
Casing MaterialNickel-Plated Brass
Muzzle Energy306 ft lbs
Muzzle Velocity1010 fps
Rounds Per Box25

Pros

  • Designed for full-size handguns in personal protection applications.
  • Bright nickel-plated cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light.
  • Low flash propellant helps preserve night vision during low-light firing.
  • FlexLock bullet is built for consistent performance and barrier penetration.
  • 25-round box offers a practical quantity for range or duty use.
  • Nickel-plated brass casing is listed in the product specifications.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Designed for full-size handguns, so it may not be the ideal choice if your setup or carry preference calls for a smaller platform.
  • The 25-round box count is relatively modest, which may mean more frequent restocking for higher-volume shooters.
  • Its low-flash propellant is a practical advantage in reduced light, but it is still specialized defensive ammunition rather than a general-purpose range load.
  • Nickel-plated brass cases can make chamber checks easier in low light, but that feature does not change the fact that this is a premium-priced defensive load.

Suggested Comparisons

  • 9mm Luger defensive handgun ammunition
  • Low-flash handgun ammo
  • Barrier-blind duty ammunition
  • Full-size handgun personal protection loads

Suggested Accessories

  • Ammunition storage box
  • Magazine pouch
  • Hearing protection
  • Eye protection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this Hornady Critical Duty load intended for?

Hornady describes Critical Duty as a load designed for those who demand superior barrier penetration and prefer a full-size handgun for personal protection.

What bullet type and weight does this ammunition use?

This load uses a 135 gr FlexLock bullet in 9mm Luger.

How many rounds come in a box?

Each box contains 25 rounds.

What case material is listed for this ammunition?

The listed casing material is nickel-plated brass.

Does the product description mention any features for low-light use?

Yes. Hornady states that the bright nickel-plated cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light, and the ammunition uses low flash propellant to help preserve night vision in low-light firing.