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Hornady

Hornady 91296 Critical Duty 357 Sig 135 GR FlexLock 20 Rounds

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

Hornady Critical

135-grain FlexLock bullets

Users Who

Want barrier penetration and a

Nickel-plated Cases

Help simplify chamber checks in

Low Flash

Propellant is included to help

Flexlock Bullet

Combines an InterLock band and

$37.99
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SKU: 91296-090255912968

Overview

Built for full-size handguns and personal protection use, this 357 Sig load is aimed at shooters who want a defensive round with barrier penetration in mind. Hornady pairs a FlexLock bullet with nickel-plated cases and low-flash propellant, supporting chamber checks in reduced light and helping preserve night vision during low-light shooting. The bullet design is described as combining an InterLock band with a Flex Tip to support controlled expansion and consistent performance. Packaged 20 rounds per box, it is a purpose-driven option for serious handgun owners who prioritize duty-style ammunition.

Why Hunters Choose the Hornady

Users Who

Prefer a full-size handgun for

Nickel-plated Cases

Simplify chamber checks in reduced

Low-flash Propellant

Helps preserve night vision during

Flexlock Bullet

Combines InterLock band and Flex

Loaded 135

135 gr bullets at 1225

Key Features

  • Hornady Critical Duty ammunition in 357 Sig with 135-grain FlexLock bullets.
  • Designed for users who want barrier penetration and a full-size handgun load.
  • Nickel-plated cases help simplify chamber checks in reduced light.
  • Low flash propellant is included to help preserve night vision in low-light firing.
  • FlexLock bullet combines an InterLock band and Flex Tip design.
  • 20 rounds per box with 450 ft lbs muzzle energy and 1225 fps muzzle velocity.

Best Used For

  • Full-size handgun users seeking a defensive load for personal protection
  • Low-light shooters who value bright nickel-plated cases for chamber checks
  • Hunters or outdoorsmen wanting barrier penetration in a compact 357 Sig load
  • Shooters prioritizing controlled expansion and consistent terminal performance
  • Buyers looking for 20-round boxed ammunition for range verification or carry setup

Specifications

Bullet TypeFlexLock
Bullet Weight135 gr
Caliber357 Sig
Casing MaterialNickel-Plated
Muzzle Energy450 ft lbs
Muzzle Velocity1225 fps
Rounds Per Box20

Pros

  • Designed for users who prefer a full-size handgun for personal protection
  • Nickel-plated cases simplify chamber checks in reduced light
  • Low-flash propellant helps preserve night vision during low-light firing
  • FlexLock bullet combines InterLock band and Flex Tip design
  • Loaded with 135 gr bullets at 1225 fps and 450 ft lbs muzzle energy
  • 20-round box provides a compact supply for range or carry preparation

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Designed for full-size handguns, so it may not be the best fit for compact platforms or users seeking a lighter-recoiling option.
  • The box count is 20 rounds, which is practical for carry or testing but limited for high-volume range use.
  • It is built around barrier penetration and controlled expansion, so it is more specialized than a general-purpose practice load.
  • Nickel-plated cases and low-flash propellant are useful in low-light use, but they do not change the fact that this is a defensive ammunition load rather than a training round.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Full-size handgun defensive ammunition
  • 357 Sig ammunition
  • Low-flash handgun ammunition
  • Barrier-penetrating duty 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 Duty load?

It is a 357 Sig load with a 135 grain FlexLock bullet.

How many rounds come in a box?

Each box contains 20 rounds.

Does this ammunition use nickel-plated cases?

Yes. The product data lists nickel-plated casing material, and the description says the bright nickel-plated cases help simplify chamber checks in reduced light.

What is the listed muzzle velocity and muzzle energy?

The listed muzzle velocity is 1225 fps and the listed muzzle energy is 450 ft lbs.

What does Hornady say the FlexLock bullet is designed to do?

The description says the FlexLock bullet is designed to deliver superior barrier penetration and consistent performance, with a Flex Tip to help prevent clogging and aid expansion, and an InterLock band to help keep the bullet and core from separating.