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Hornady 90311 Critical Defense 38 Special+P 110 GR FTX 25 Rounds
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
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SKU: 90311-090255903119
Overview
Built for defensive use, this load is aimed at concealed carry and personal protection where dependable function and low-flash performance matter. The nickel-plated cases are intended to aid visibility in low-light conditions, while the low-flash propellant is designed to help limit disruption to your vision. It uses Hornady’s patented FTX bullet and is offered in a 25-round box, making it a practical option for shooters setting up a defensive handgun load.
Why Hunters Choose the Hornady
Reliable Performance
In self-defense situations
Nickel-plated Cases
Improve visibility in low-light conditions
Low-flash Propellants
Help reduce disruption to your
Suitable Concealed
Carry and personal protection
Patented Ftx
Bullet is listed for dependable
Key Features
- Designed for reliable performance in self-defense situations.
- Nickel-plated cases offer increased visibility in low-light conditions.
- Premium low-flash propellants help maintain consistent performance in short-barreled handguns.
- Ideal for concealed carry and personal protection use.
- Patented FTX bullet is described for reliable expansion and terminal performance.
- Caliber is .38 Special with 110 gr bullet weight and 25 rounds per box.
Best Used For
- Concealed carry users wanting self-defense ammunition for everyday defensive readiness
- Short-barreled handgun owners seeking low-flash loads for indoor or low-light use
- Shooters who prefer nickel-plated cases for easier visibility during ammunition checks
- Personal protection users looking for a 25-round box of .38 Special +P defensive loads
Specifications
| Bullet Type | Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) |
|---|---|
| Bullet Weight | 110 gr |
| Caliber | 38 Special +P |
| Case Material | Nickel-Plated |
| Casing Material | Nickel-Plated |
| Intended Use | Self-defense / concealed carry / personal protection |
| Low Light Visibility | Increased visibility in low-light conditions |
| Muzzle Energy | 290 ft lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1090 fps |
| Patented Bullet | FTX |
| Propellant | Low-flash propellants |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
Pros
- Designed for reliable performance in self-defense situations
- Nickel-plated cases improve visibility in low-light conditions
- Low-flash propellants help reduce disruption to your vision
- Suitable for concealed carry and personal protection
- Patented FTX bullet is listed for dependable expansion
- 25-round box provides a practical quantity for carry practice
Considerations & Trade-offs
- This load is optimized for self-defense and concealed carry, so it’s purpose-built rather than a general-purpose .38 Special option.
- The 25-round box count is relatively small, which may require more frequent reordering for practice or carry rotation.
- It is described as performing reliably in short-barreled handguns, but that focus means it’s not presented as a training or high-volume range load.
- Nickel-plated cases and low-flash propellants are useful features, but they are part of a defensive load and may come at a higher cost than standard ammunition.
Suggested Comparisons
- Handgun self-defense ammunition
- Concealed carry ammunition
- .38 Special +P ammunition
- Short-barreled revolver ammunition
Suggested Accessories
- Ammunition storage box
- Hearing protection
- Handgun cleaning kit
- Range bag
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber and bullet weight is this Hornady Critical Defense load?
This ammunition is listed as .38 Special +P with a 110 grain Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) bullet.
How many rounds come in a box?
Each box contains 25 rounds.
Is this load intended for concealed carry or general range use?
The product description says it is designed for self-defense, concealed carry, and personal protection.
What case material is listed for this ammunition?
The listed casing material is nickel-plated.
Does the description provide muzzle velocity and muzzle energy?
Yes. The listed muzzle velocity is 1090 fps and the muzzle energy is 290 ft lbs.