The Hornady Critical Duty line has earned a strong reputation among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. This review delves deep into the performance and reliability of the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm ammunition, examining its key features, testing data, and overall suitability for self-defense. We'll explore why this round is a popular choice and whether it lives up to the hype. This detailed analysis of the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm will help you decide if it's the right choice for your needs.
Understanding the Hornady Critical Duty Line
Hornady designed the Critical Duty line specifically for law enforcement and self-defense applications. Unlike many other self-defense rounds, the Critical Duty line prioritizes reliable performance under a wide range of conditions, including penetration through barriers like car doors and drywall. This is achieved through a unique bullet design.
The 135gr +P 9mm Critical Duty round uses Hornady's FlexLock® technology. This features a mechanically bonded, lead-free, nickel-plated hollow point bullet that is designed to reliably expand even after impacting barriers. The +P designation indicates a higher pressure loading, resulting in increased velocity and energy.
Key Features of the 135gr +P 9mm Critical Duty:
- FlexLock® Bullet: Prevents bullet separation and ensures consistent expansion.
- Lead-Free Design: Environmentally friendly and suitable for ranges with lead restrictions.
- Nickel-Plated: Improves durability and reduces friction in the barrel.
- +P Velocity: Provides increased energy and penetration.
- Reliable Expansion: Designed to reliably expand even after hitting barriers.
Performance Testing and Data Analysis
Numerous independent tests have been conducted on the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm, demonstrating its effectiveness. These tests often involve shooting into ballistic gelatin blocks to simulate human tissue, as well as various barrier materials. The results consistently show excellent expansion and penetration within FBI recommended guidelines.
| Test Condition | Average Penetration (inches) | Average Expansion Diameter (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Gelatin | 12-14 | 0.65 - 0.75 | Consistent expansion throughout testing. |
| Through 1/4" Drywall | 10-12 | 0.60 - 0.70 | Minor reduction in expansion, acceptable penetration. |
| Through Car Door (Steel) | 8-10 | 0.55 - 0.65 | Significant barrier penetration, still expanding. |
(Note: These are average values from various independent tests and may vary slightly.) It is important to remember that testing results can vary depending on the firearm, barrel length, and other factors.
Real-World Applications and Case Studies
While specific case studies involving the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm are often kept confidential due to privacy concerns, the round's popularity among law enforcement agencies speaks volumes. Its consistent performance in controlled testing translates to a higher degree of confidence in real-world self-defense scenarios. The round's ability to penetrate barriers while maintaining effective expansion is a significant advantage in high-stress situations.
Comparing the 135gr +P to Other 9mm Options
The 9mm market is saturated with self-defense options. The Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P distinguishes itself through its consistent performance across various barriers. Here's a brief comparison to some competitors (individual performance can vary based on testing protocols):
| Ammunition | Bullet Weight (gr) | Bullet Type | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P | 135 | FlexLock Hollow Point | Reliable expansion, barrier penetration. |
| Speer Gold Dot 124gr +P | 124 | JHP | Popular choice, good expansion and penetration. |
| Federal HST 124gr +P | 124 | JHP | Excellent expansion and penetration, reliable. |
Choosing the "best" round is subjective. Each round has its strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the most effective round is the one you practice with consistently and can accurately place shots with under stress.
Conclusion: Is the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P Right for You?
The Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm is a high-performing self-defense round. Its proven performance in controlled testing, emphasis on reliable expansion even after impacting barriers, and popularity among law enforcement agencies make it a strong contender for anyone seeking a dependable self-defense round.
However, it's crucial to remember that ammunition selection is a personal decision. Always conduct thorough research, test your chosen ammunition in your specific firearm, and practice regularly to ensure proficiency and confidence. Consider consulting with a firearms expert to determine the best ammunition choice for your individual needs and circumstances. The Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P 9mm is undoubtedly a top performer in the self-defense market, offering a high level of confidence for users who understand its capabilities and limitations.