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Hornady Critical Defense 9x18mm Makarov FTX 95 Grain 25 Rounds
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SKU: WX2*0217823
Overview
Hornady Critical Defense in 9x18mm Makarov is built for defensive use where reliable expansion through heavy clothing is a priority. Its patented polymer Flex Tip design is intended to promote controlled expansion, making it a practical choice for concealed-carry or personal-defense setups chambered in this cartridge. The current load is offered with a traditional brass case due to a temporary suspension of nickel plating. For shooters who want a purpose-driven defensive round in a 25-round package, this load keeps the focus on self-defense rather than general range use.
Why Hunters Choose the Hornady
Patented Polymer
Flex Tip design is intended
Use 9x18mm
Makarov handguns
95 Grain
Loading provides a clearly specified
25-round Box
Practical quantity for range or
Traditional Brass
Case is noted during the
Key Features
- Hornady Critical Defense 9x18mm Makarov ammunition
- FTX 95 grain load, 25 rounds per box
- Patented polymer Flex Tip design
- Designed for controlled expansion
- Traditional brass case due to nickel plating suspension
Best Used For
- Owners of 9x18mm Makarov handguns seeking defensive ammunition with Hornady Critical Defense loading
- Users wanting a polymer Flex Tip design for use in concealed-carry defensive scenarios
- Shooters who prefer a 25-round box for range verification and carry rotation
- Buyers who need a traditional brass case due to current nickel-plating suspension
Specifications
| Bullet Type | FTX |
|---|---|
| Bullet Weight | 95 Grain |
| Cartridge | 9x18mm Makarov |
| Case Material | Brass |
| Hollow Point | Yes |
| Nickel Plating | Temporarily suspended due to supply shortages |
| Patented Polymer Flex Tip | Yes |
| Round Count | 25 |
Pros
- Patented polymer Flex Tip design is intended to promote controlled expansion.
- Designed for use in 9x18mm Makarov handguns.
- 95 grain loading provides a clearly specified projectile weight.
- 25-round box offers a practical quantity for range or carry preparation.
- Traditional brass case is noted during the current nickel-plating suspension.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- This load is offered in 9x18mm Makarov, so it is only appropriate for firearms chambered for that cartridge.
- Hornady notes that nickel plating has been temporarily suspended; these rounds use a traditional brass case instead.
- The product is packaged in 25 rounds, which may be a smaller quantity than some shooters prefer for range use or stocking up.
- The description emphasizes controlled expansion, but performance can still vary with firearm, barrel, and real-world conditions.
Suggested Comparisons
- 9x18mm Makarov defensive handgun ammunition
- Self-defense handgun ammunition
- Hollow point handgun ammunition
- Brass-cased handgun ammunition
Suggested Accessories
- Ammunition storage box
- Hearing protection
- Cleaning kit
- Magazine
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber and bullet weight is this ammunition?
This product is Hornady Critical Defense in 9x18mm Makarov with a 95 grain FTX bullet.
How many rounds come in the box?
The product is listed as 25 rounds.
What is the FTX Flex Tip design intended to do?
The source says Hornady’s patented polymer Flex Tip design is intended to deliver controlled expansion.
Does this lot use nickel-plated cases?
No. The source notes that Hornady has temporarily suspended nickel plating due to supply shortages, so these rounds feature a traditional brass case instead.
Is this ammunition described as a hollow point?
The description discusses hollow point bullets generally, but this product is specifically identified as Critical Defense FTX ammunition with a polymer Flex Tip design.