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Hornady Critical Duty LE 9mm Luger Ammunition 135 Grain FlexLock - 90235
Hornady Critical DUTY 9mm Luger 135 Grain FlexLock ammunition is purpose-built for law enforcement, tactical applications, and armed professionals who demand reliable barrier performance. Engineered with Hornady’s patented Flex Tip and InterLock band technology, these rounds provide consistent penetration, controlled expansion, and maximum weight retention through all FBI protocol test barriers including auto glass, plywood, and sheet metal. Each cartridge features a corrosion-resistant nickel-plated case for smooth feeding and improved visibility, along with low-flash propellants for better performance in reduced-light environments. Available in 50-round boxes or cost-saving 500-round cases, this 9mm ammo is trusted for duty use where performance cannot be compromised.
Features and Specifications:
- FlexLock Bullet Design: Features Hornady’s patented Flex Tip insert and mechanical InterLock band for controlled expansion, excellent weight retention, and consistent terminal performance.
- Tough Lead Core: Built with a high-antimony lead core for durability and controlled expansion, ensuring repeatable results in demanding shooting conditions.
- Nickel-Plated Cases: Bright nickel-plated brass resists corrosion, enhances chamber checks in low light, and ensures reliable feeding in semi-automatic handguns.
- Low-Flash Propellant: Specially formulated powder reduces muzzle flash to help preserve night vision and maintain visibility in low-light or indoor scenarios.
- Packaging Options: For high volume shooters looking for the best value this ammo is available in 50-round boxes with free shipping on bulk ammo at Target Sports USA.
Deep Dive
Overview
Hornady Critical DUTY 9mm 135 Grain FlexLock is engineered specifically for law enforcement and tactical professionals who require proven performance across all urban barrier scenarios. Its design ensures consistent penetration and expansion when fired through automotive glass, plywood, sheet metal, or wallboard, while maintaining effective terminal performance. The ammunition’s low-flash propellant supports use in reduced light, making it ideal for both indoor training and real-world defensive encounters. This round functions reliably in full-size duty pistols, providing shooters with confidence that each cartridge will perform as expected in high-stakes situations.
History and Development
Hornady, founded in 1949, has earned a reputation for producing innovative and dependable ammunition trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters worldwide. The company has pioneered bullet technologies that balance accuracy, expansion, and reliability, setting industry benchmarks for decades.
The Critical DUTY line was developed to meet strict FBI ballistic test standards, addressing a need for barrier-blind ammunition capable of consistent expansion and penetration under extreme conditions. The 9mm 135 Grain FlexLock utilizes Hornady’s patented Flex Tip to prevent clogging and an InterLock band to keep the jacket and core together. Combined with a high-antimony lead core and nickel-plated cases, the design ensures durability, accuracy, and performance consistency for tactical and duty applications.
Common Questions and FAQs
- What makes the FlexLock bullet unique compared to standard hollow points?
The FlexLock design uses a polymer tip to prevent clogging and a mechanical InterLock band to keep the jacket and core together, ensuring expansion and penetration through FBI test barriers.
- Does Critical DUTY perform consistently through barriers?
Yes, it is engineered to deliver uniform performance after passing through auto glass, wallboard, plywood, and sheet metal without losing structural integrity.
- Why are nickel-plated cases used in this ammunition?
Nickel plating improves corrosion resistance, enhances feeding reliability, and makes cartridges easier to identify during chamber checks in low-light environments.
- What type of primer and powder does this ammo use?
Each round is loaded with sealed small pistol primers and temperature-stable, low-flash propellant for dependable ignition and better visibility in low-light conditions.
- How is Hornady Critical DUTY 9mm packaged?
This ammunition is available in 50-round boxes and 500-round bulk cases. Target Sports USA also provides free shipping on bulk ammo quantities for added value.
The 'Round Up'
Perfect Fit for:
- Tactical / Law Enforcement
Why It Stands Out:
Hornady Critical DUTY 9mm Luger 135 Grain FlexLock is a trusted choice for law enforcement, tactical professionals, and shooters who require barrier-blind performance. Its advanced bullet design combines the patented Flex Tip and InterLock band to deliver reliable expansion and penetration. Available in both 50-round boxes and 500-round bulk cases with free shipping from Target Sports USA, this 9mm ammo delivers proven performance, durability, and value where it matters most.
| Field | Details |
| MPN | 90235 |
| UPC | 090255703306 |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
| Platform | Handgun |
| Ammo Application | Tactical / Law Enforcement |
| Ammo Type | FlexLock |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Grain Weight | 135 Grain |
| Quantity Per Package | Box of 50 / Case of 500 |
| Test Barrel Length | Not Provided |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1010 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 306 ft.lbs |
| Ballistic Coefficient (G1) | .195 |
| Case Type | Nickel-Plated |
| Primer Type | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead Free | No |
| Staked Primer | Not Provided |
| Country of Origin | USA |
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