Description
Product Overview
Engineered for the discerning shooter who demands reliability in a defensive rimfire cartridge, the Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo represents a significant advancement in small-caliber personal protection. This 45-grain load is specifically designed to address the historical limitations of rimfire Ammunition in defensive scenarios. It is an ideal choice for those who rely on a 22 WMR firearm as a primary or secondary defensive tool, or for situations where over-penetration is a major concern. By integrating Hornady’s proven Critical Defense technology into the 22 WMR platform, this ammunition delivers consistent, barrier-blind performance in a compact and manageable package.
Key Features
- FTX Polymer Tip Hollow Point: The patented Flex Tip (FTX) bullet is the core of this round’s performance. The polymer tip initiates rapid, controlled expansion upon impact and prevents clogging when passing through heavy clothing or other barriers, ensuring reliable terminal performance.
- Optimized 45-Grain Weight: The 45-grain projectile is carefully balanced for the 22 WMR cartridge, providing an optimal blend of velocity, energy, and recoil management to maintain shooter control and facilitate rapid follow-up shots.
- Nickel-Plated Cases: The nickel finish on the cases offers superior corrosion resistance for long-term storage reliability. It also provides enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, a critical factor during a defensive incident.
- Low-Flash Propellant: Specially formulated propellant significantly reduces muzzle flash. This preserves the shooter’s night vision and helps maintain situational awareness in low-light defensive encounters.
- Consistent Ignition: As part of the Critical Defense line, this ammunition is built with stringent quality controls to ensure reliable rimfire primer ignition, a paramount concern for any defensive round.
Performance & Applications
The Hornady Critical Defense 22 WMR is engineered for specific, real-world applications where its unique characteristics offer distinct advantages.
Compact Defensive Firearms: This ammunition is perfectly suited for modern, compact 22 WMR revolvers and semi-automatic pistols often chosen for concealed carry or as a backup firearm. Its reliable expansion and reduced risk of over-penetration make it a responsible choice for urban or home environments.
Lightweight Trail & Utility Use: For hikers, ranchers, or outdoorsmen who carry a 22 WMR rifle or pistol for pest control or as a lightweight survival tool, this load offers a definitive step up from standard hollow points. The FTX bullet provides more decisive performance against small predators or pests while maintaining safety margins in the field.
Recoil-Sensitive Shooters: Individuals sensitive to heavy recoil, whether due to injury or preference, can effectively employ a 22 WMR firearm loaded with Critical Defense for home protection. This ammunition maximizes the defensive potential of the low-recoil platform without compromising on terminal bullet performance.
About Hornady
For over seven decades, Hornady Manufacturing has been a driving force in ballistic innovation, establishing itself as a leader through relentless research and empirical testing. The company’s authority in the defensive ammunition segment is built on a foundation of Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust (E-E-A-T). The Critical Defense line, in particular, was born from extensive forensic analysis and live-fire testing to solve real-world problems like clothing clogging and inconsistent expansion. Hornady’s commitment is not to marketing claims, but to verifiable, repeatable performance. When you choose a Hornady Critical Defense product, you are selecting ammunition developed by ballisticians and engineers who prioritize functional reliability above all else.
Why Buy From F1 Firearms AR-15
At our Spring, TX facility, F1 Firearms AR-15 is more than a retailer; we are builders and enthusiasts who understand the critical relationship between a firearm and its ammunition. We stock products like this Hornady Critical Defense 22 WMR because we recognize the need for high-performance options across all shooting disciplines. Our team selects inventory based on technical merit and proven track records, ensuring that when you purchase from us, you receive a component that meets the stringent demands of real-world use. We are here to provide the right tool for the task, backed by knowledgeable support.
Make Your Decision
The Hornady Critical Defense 22 WMR 45 Grain FTX load fills a specific niche in the defensive ammunition market. It transforms the capable 22 Magnum platform into a more predictably effective option for personal defense by solving the traditional hollow point’s failure points. If your needs align with a compact, low-recoil, yet terminally efficient defensive solution, this ammunition warrants serious consideration. It represents a thoughtful application of advanced bullet technology to a classic cartridge, offering peace of mind through engineered performance.
Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR 45 grain FTX Gel Penetration Test
Technical Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this ammunition best used for?
This the specified caliber ammunition is optimized for its intended applications, delivering reliable performance.
How many rounds per box?
Each box contains 20 rounds, packaged for convenient use.
Is this ammunition reliable?
Hornady ammunition undergoes rigorous quality control, ensuring consistent performance shot after shot.
What type of bullet is this?
This load features a hollow point design, engineered for consistent performance.

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