Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense
Introduction
As a proud owner of the .45 ACP, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense for my 9mm piece. With its reputation for exceptional accuracy and reliability, I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Out of the Box Experience
Upon opening the package, I was struck by the quality of the packaging. The box was sturdy, with a protective covering around the ammo to prevent damage. The box itself was compact, making it easy to fit in a backpack or bag for on-the-go storage.
Ammo Characteristics
Here are some key characteristics of the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense:
• Weight: 115 grains
• Velocity: 1,200 feet per second (366.89 m/s)
• Expansion: Critical Defense patented Progressive Expansion design
• Penetration: 12 inches (30.48 cm) on average
Accuracy and Reliability
I loaded up my 9mm for a range day, excited to test the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense. The first thing I noticed was the accuracy – upon firing, I was impressed by the tight groups and confirmation of the 50-yard target. Accuracy was exceptional, with 5 shots within a 1-inch circle at 50 yards. This was impressive, given the standard action on my 9mm.
Reliability was also a non-issue. The Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense cycled smooth, releasing with a firm but not overbearing recoil. This allowed me to quickly follow up shots without compromising my grip or accuracy.
Expansion and Penetration
Here’s where things get interesting. I was eager to see how the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense performed in terms of expansion and penetration. For this, I used a 10% gel block, a DIY setup using water and a mixture of gelatin and water to mimic the consistency of human tissue.
Once the rounds penetrated, I was stunned by the aftermath. The expansion was remarkable, leaving a hole filled with the gel and a striking amount of penetration. This tells me that the Critical Defense technology is effective in expanding and disintegrating, as intended.
Pros and Cons
• Pros:
- Excellent accuracy
- Smooth reliability
- Effective expansion and penetration
- Versatile cartridge
• Cons: - Higher cost compared to other 9mm options
- Some users may find the recoil sharper than others
- Limited availability in certain calibers and quantities
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance, reliable, and effective cartridge for self-defense. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the benefits lie in its exceptional accuracy, smooth operation, and impressive expansion and penetration.
Recommendation
If you’re in the market for a premium 9mm self-defense option, I would highly recommend considering the Hornady 9mm Luger Critical Defense. Its performance and reliability make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best.
