Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For revolver carriers running 45 Colt platforms in concealed carry roles, the Hornady Critical Defense 45 Colt (Long Colt) 185-grain FTX load addresses the barrier-blindness problem common in legacy hollow-point designs. The FTX polymer tip drives consistent expansion across clothing barriers — denim, leather, heavy fabric — that plug conventional cavity designs and prevent energy transfer. At 920 feet per second and 348 foot-pounds from a 185-grain projectile, this load balances recoil management in lightweight frames against terminal performance where shot placement matters most. Hornady builds Critical Defense as a purpose-specific answer to the question: will it expand when you need it to?
Built for the Box
The FTX bullet uses a soft polymer insert seated in the hollow-point cavity to prevent clogging and initiate expansion on contact with soft tissue. Hornady engineers this projectile to deliver controlled expansion and deep wound channels across a wide velocity range — from snub-nose barrels under 3 inches to full-length Vaquero tubes. The nickel-plated brass case (subject to temporary suspension per manufacturer notice — standard brass may substitute during supply constraints) aids visibility during low-light reloads and resists corrosion in carry guns exposed to sweat and humidity. Low-flash propellant preserves night vision if you’re firing in dim conditions, and the clean-burning powder reduces fouling in cylinders that may sit loaded for extended periods between range sessions.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| Bullet weight | 185 grains |
| Bullet type | Polymer Tip (Hornady FTX) |
| Muzzle velocity | 920 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 348 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Brass (nickel-plated subject to availability) |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self-defense |
| Manufacturer | Hornady (USA) |
This load sits in the middle of the 45 Long Colt ammo defensive spectrum — lighter and faster than 225-250 grain cowboy loads, heavier and softer-recoiling than +P hunting rounds. The 185-grain weight keeps chamber pressure manageable in older Colt SAA-pattern guns while delivering enough sectional density for consistent penetration through intermediate barriers.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearm safety — treat every gun as loaded, keep muzzle pointed in safe direction, finger off trigger until ready to fire, know your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify current state and local laws before purchasing or possessing ammunition — some jurisdictions restrict hollow-point or polymer-tipped defensive ammunition.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Prop 65). Use adequate ventilation at indoor ranges and wash hands after handling.
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