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Hornady

Hornady 90511 Critical Duty 357 Mag 135 GR FlexLock 25 Rounds

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

357 Magnum

A 135-grain FlexLock bullet

Flex Tip

Design helps prevent clogging and

Interlock Band

Is designed to keep bullet

High-antimony Lead

Core is described as extremely

Bright Nickel-plated

Cases simplify chamber checks in

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SKU: 90511-090255905113

Overview

Hornady’s Critical Duty load is built for shooters who want a defensive .357 Magnum option suited to a full-size handgun and barrier-focused use. The 135-grain FlexLock bullet is described as combining a Flex Tip with an InterLock band to support controlled expansion and help keep the bullet and core together. Bright nickel-plated cases are intended to make chamber checks easier in reduced light, and the low-flash propellant is included to help preserve night vision during low-light firing. Packaged 25 rounds per box, this ammunition is aimed at serious personal protection use rather than general plinking.

Why Hunters Choose the Hornady

357 Mag

Full-size handgun use in personal

Flexlock Bullet

Includes a Flex Tip to

Interlock Band

Is designed to keep bullet

Nickel-plated Cases

Simplify chamber checks in reduced

Loaded Low

Low flash propellant to help

Key Features

  • 357 Magnum Critical Duty ammunition with a 135-grain FlexLock bullet.
  • Flex Tip design helps prevent clogging and supports bullet expansion.
  • InterLock band is designed to keep bullet and core from separating.
  • High-antimony lead core is described as extremely tough for controlled expansion.
  • Bright nickel-plated cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light.
  • Loaded with low flash propellant to help preserve night vision.
  • 25 rounds per box for full-size handgun personal protection use.

Best Used For

  • Full-size handgun owners seeking 357 Mag ammunition for personal protection use cases
  • Hunters or outdoorsmen wanting a load designed for barrier penetration scenarios
  • Low-light users who value nickel-plated cases for simpler chamber checks
  • Shooters looking for 25-round boxed ammunition in 357 Mag with FlexLock bullets
  • Users prioritizing controlled expansion and consistent performance in defensive handgun applications

Specifications

Bullet TypeFlexLock
Bullet Weight135 gr
Caliber357 Mag
Casing MaterialNickel-Plated
Muzzle Energy487 ft lbs
Muzzle Velocity1275 fps
Rounds Per Box25

Pros

  • Designed for 357 Mag full-size handgun use in personal protection roles
  • FlexLock bullet includes a Flex Tip to help prevent clogging
  • InterLock band is designed to keep bullet and core together
  • Nickel-plated cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light
  • Loaded with low flash propellant to help preserve night vision
  • 25-round box provides a compact supply for range or duty use

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Designed for full-size handguns, so it may not be the most practical choice for compact revolvers or lighter carry setups.
  • The 25-round box count is relatively small, which may require more frequent restocking for range use or reserve supply.
  • Its barrier-penetration focus makes it a specialized defensive load rather than a general-purpose .357 Magnum option.
  • Nickel-plated cases and low-flash propellant are useful in defensive contexts, but they add features that may be unnecessary for routine practice ammunition.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Handgun defensive ammunition
  • 357 Magnum ammunition
  • Low-flash ammunition
  • Barrier-blind ammunition

Suggested Accessories

  • Ammunition storage box
  • Hearing protection
  • Cleaning kit
  • Range bag

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this ammunition designed for?

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

What caliber and bullet weight does this load use?

This load is 357 Mag with a 135 gr FlexLock bullet.

How many rounds come in a box?

Each box contains 25 rounds.

What features are listed for the FlexLock bullet?

Hornady says the Flex Tip helps eliminate clogging and aids bullet expansion, and the InterLock band is designed to keep the bullet and core from separating for maximum weight retention.

Are there any low-light features mentioned?

Yes. The description says the cases are bright nickel-plated to simplify chamber checks in reduced light, and the ammunition uses low flash propellant to help preserve night vision.