The Hornady Critical Defense 9x18 Makarov ammunition delivers reliable expansion and penetration specifically engineered for personal protection scenarios. This 95-grain load features Hornady's patented Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) bullet technology, addressing the common barrier blind challenges faced by traditional hollow point ammunition.
What Makes This Different
The FTX bullet design incorporates a soft polymer tip that initiates expansion upon impact while preventing hollow point cavity clogging from heavy clothing, wallboard, or other barrier materials. Unlike conventional hollow points that may fail to expand after passing through fabric or light barriers, the Critical Defense FTX consistently delivers controlled expansion. The nickel-plated case provides enhanced corrosion resistance and smooth chambering in semi-automatic firearms.
Key Features
- 95-grain FTX bullet with polymer tip for consistent expansion
- Nickel-plated brass cases resist corrosion and aid extraction
- Low-flash propellant reduces muzzle flash in low-light conditions
- Optimized for 3-4 inch barrel lengths common in compact pistols
- Cannelured bullet with crimped case mouth prevents bullet setback
- Designed specifically for personal protection applications
- 25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case (250 total rounds)
This ammunition performs consistently across various environmental conditions and barrier encounters typical in defensive situations. The 95-grain bullet weight provides adequate penetration depth while maintaining manageable recoil in compact 9x18 Makarov pistols. Testing demonstrates reliable feeding in both military surplus and modern commercial firearms chambered for this cartridge. The low-flash propellant formulation maintains shooter night vision capabilities during low-light engagements.
Technical Specs
- Caliber: 9x18 Makarov (9mm Makarov)
- Bullet Weight: 95 grains
- Bullet Type: FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding)
- Case Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Primer: Non-corrosive Boxer
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 1,000 fps (4-inch barrel)
- Quantity: 25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case
- Country of Origin: United States
The Critical Defense line represents Hornady's commitment to solving real-world defensive ammunition challenges through innovative bullet design. This 9x18 Makarov loading provides shooters with a proven solution for personal protection needs. Stock levels for specialty calibers like 9x18 Makarov fluctuate regularly due to limited production runs.