Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip – Best Price

Description

Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip – Best Price is a purpose-built defensive load engineered for rimfire platforms where terminal performance is mission-critical. This is for the shooter who carries a .22 WMR for personal protection and demands reliable expansion from a rimfire cartridge. Its key differentiator is the Flex Tip technology, which prevents clogging and ensures consistent terminal ballistics through barriers.

Key Features

• FTX Polymer Tip: The Flex Tip initiates rapid, controlled expansion upon impact. This matters because it maximizes energy transfer and creates a larger wound channel than standard hollow points, which is vital for stopping power in a rimfire caliber.
• 45-Grain Weight: This specific weight provides an optimal balance of velocity and momentum for the .22 WMR case capacity. It matters because it helps maintain reliable cycling in semi-automatic firearms while delivering sufficient mass for penetration.
• Nickel-Plated Cases: The cases resist corrosion and provide smoother feeding. This matters for a defensive round that may be carried for extended periods and must function flawlessly under stress.
• Critical Defense Formulation: Hornady’s specific propellant blend is designed for consistent velocity and clean burning. This matters for shot-to-shot reliability and maintaining your firearm’s performance.

Specifications

Specification	Detail
Caliber	.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR)
Bullet Weight	45 Grains
Bullet Type	FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding)
Muzzle Velocity	1650 fps (per manufacturer, from 4″ barrel)
Muzzle Energy	272 ft-lbs
Case Material	Nickel-Plated Brass
Quantity	50 Rounds per Box

Head-to-Head

Model	Hornady Critical Defense 45gr FTX	CCI Maxi-Mag 40gr JHP	Winchester Super-X 40gr JHP
Bullet Technology	Polymer Tip (FTX)	Traditional Jacketed Hollow Point	Traditional Jacketed Hollow Point
Primary Use	Defensive / Barrier Blind	Varmint / Small Game	Varmint / Small Game
Case Finish	Nickel-Plated	Standard Brass	Standard Brass
Velocity (approx.)	1650 fps	1910 fps	1910 fps

Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Superior terminal performance for a .22 WMR, with reliable expansion even through heavy clothing.
2. Nickel-plated cases ensure corrosion resistance and reliable feeding in all conditions.
3. Consistent velocity and pressure specifications aid in reliable function, especially in compact semi-autos.

Cons:

1. Higher cost per round compared to general-purpose .22 WMR ammunition.
2. Velocity is lower than some varmint loads, as it is tuned for optimal expansion rather than flat trajectory.

Who Should Buy This

• The Defensive Rimfire Carrier who relies on a .22 WMR revolver or pistol for concealed carry and needs ammunition validated for that role.
• The Backcountry Traveler using a lightweight .22 WMR rifle or pistol for both small game and potential defensive use against larger threats.
• The Preparedness-Minded Shooter stocking dedicated, high-performance defensive ammunition for every firearm in their inventory, including rimfire.

FAQ

Is Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip – Best Price worth the price?

Yes, if your application is personal defense. For plinking or varmint hunting, standard JHP ammo is more cost-effective. For a defensive scenario where shot placement and terminal effect downrange are paramount, the engineered performance of the FTX projectile justifies the investment.

What comes with Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip – Best Price?

You receive one factory-sealed box of 50 rounds of ammunition. Each cartridge is loaded with the 45-grain FTX bullet in a nickel-plated case.

How does Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip – Best Price compare?

It occupies a specific niche. It is not the fastest .22 WMR load, but it is one of the most effective for defensive use. Compared to traditional JHPs, the FTX tip provides more consistent expansion, especially through intermediate barriers. See the comparison table above for specific details versus other common loads.

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Last updated: March 2026