The Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P is a popular choice for self-defense among law enforcement and civilians alike. But does it live up to the hype? This in-depth review will explore its performance characteristics, ballistics, and overall suitability for personal protection. We'll delve beyond simple bullet points, examining real-world testing and user experiences to provide a comprehensive assessment.
Ballistics and Performance: What Makes it Tick?
The Critical Duty line utilizes Hornady's FlexLock technology, a unique bullet design aimed at maximizing expansion and penetration. The 135gr +P round features a lead core with a copper jacket, engineered for consistent expansion even in challenging scenarios like barriers. This is crucial for self-defense, where shots might encounter obstacles like drywall, car doors, or even clothing before reaching the target.
Key Ballistic Features:
- +P Designation: The "+P" indicates higher pressure than standard ammunition, leading to increased velocity and energy. This translates to greater stopping power and better penetration through barriers.
- FlexLock Technology: This design allows the bullet to expand reliably while maintaining weight retention, ensuring deep penetration even after expansion.
- Deep Penetration: While expansion is vital, penetration is equally important to ensure sufficient tissue damage for incapacitation. The Critical Duty 135gr +P strikes a balance between the two.
- Controlled Expansion: Unlike some high-velocity rounds that fragment excessively, the Critical Duty tends to expand reliably to a predictable diameter, maximizing energy transfer without uncontrolled fragmentation.
Real-World Testing and User Feedback
Numerous independent tests have showcased the Critical Duty 135gr +P's excellent performance. Reports consistently highlight its reliable expansion, deep penetration, and consistent accuracy. Online forums and reviews by law enforcement professionals and civilian shooters generally speak favorably of the round's effectiveness and reliability. However, it's important to note that individual experiences may vary slightly depending on factors like barrel length and firearm used.
Advantages of the Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P
- Reliable Expansion: The FlexLock technology consistently delivers reliable expansion across various testing conditions.
- Deep Penetration: Provides sufficient penetration for effective stopping power, even through barriers.
- High Velocity: The +P designation offers increased velocity and energy, contributing to its effectiveness.
- Accuracy: Generally praised for its accuracy in various firearms.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
- Recoil: The higher pressure of the +P round results in increased recoil compared to standard ammunition. This is something to consider, especially for shooters with less experience or those using smaller handguns.
- Cost: Critical Duty ammunition is generally more expensive than other self-defense options.
- Availability: While widely available, it can sometimes be subject to stock fluctuations, particularly during periods of high demand.
Conclusion: Is it the Right Choice for You?
The Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P is a high-performing, reliable self-defense round with a strong track record. Its consistent expansion, deep penetration, and high velocity make it an excellent option for those seeking top-tier personal protection ammunition. However, its higher cost and increased recoil should be considered. Ultimately, the best ammunition for self-defense is the one you can consistently and accurately shoot under stress. Therefore, thorough practice with your chosen firearm and ammunition is crucial. Always consult with a firearms expert and conduct your own research to determine the optimal ammunition for your specific needs and circumstances.
