In Stock: Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip

Description

In Stock: Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip is a purpose-built defensive load engineered for rimfire platforms where reliability under stress is non-negotiable. This is for the shooter who carries a .22 WMR for personal defense and demands terminal performance that matches the cartridge’s potential. The 45-grain FTX bullet with its Flex Tip technology sets it apart from standard hollow points by ensuring consistent expansion through heavy clothing.

Key Features

• FTX Polymer Tip with Flex Tip Technology: The polymer insert initiates uniform expansion and prevents tip clogging from fabric, which matters for reliable terminal ballistics in a defensive encounter.
• Nickel-Plated Cases: Provides superior corrosion resistance and smoother feeding, which matters for function in semi-automatic actions and long-term ammunition storage.
• Low-Flash Propellant: Minimizes muzzle flash to preserve night vision, which matters in low-light defensive situations.
• 45-Grain Optimized Jacketed Hollow Point: The bullet is specifically designed for the .22 WMR’s velocity window to deliver controlled expansion, which matters for maximizing energy transfer and stopping capability.

Specifications

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

Head-to-Head

Feature	Hornady Critical Defense 22 WMR 45gr FTX	CCI Maxi-Mag 22 WMR 40gr JHP
Bullet Design	FTX Polymer Tip (anti-clog)	Standard Jacketed Hollow Point
Case Finish	Nickel-Plated	Standard Brass
Propellant	Low-Flash	Standard
Primary Use Case	Defensive	General Purpose / Varmint

Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Engineered specifically for defensive use with barrier-blind expansion.
2. Nickel-plated cases enhance reliability in semi-automatic firearms.
3. Consistent, low-flash performance aids in shot placement downrange.

Cons:

1. Premium price point per round compared to general-purpose .22 WMR.
2. Limited availability compared to standard velocity plinking ammunition.

Who Should Buy This

• The owner of a .22 WMR revolver or pistol who carries it as a primary or backup defensive firearm and requires ammunition validated for that role.
• The shooter who needs a low-recoil, high-penetration option for specific scenarios where larger calibers are not suitable.
• The prepper seeking reliable, specialized rimfire ammunition for a survival kit where shot placement and terminal effect are mission-critical.

FAQ

Is In Stock: Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip worth the price?

If you are using a .22 WMR for personal defense, yes. The engineering behind the FTX bullet and low-flash propellant is not found in cheaper plinking ammo and directly addresses the terminal performance requirements of a defensive encounter.

What comes with In Stock: Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip?

You receive one 50-round box of factory-new ammunition. Each round features the nickel-plated case and 45-grain FTX bullet.

How does In Stock: Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) Ammo 45 Grain Hornady FTX Polymer Tip compare?

It occupies the top tier of .22 WMR defensive loads. It compares favorably by solving the hollow-point clogging issue with its Flex Tip and is loaded to more consistent pressures than many generic brands, offering better reliability. See the full ammunition category for other options.

Trust: In stock at Glock Switch Shop. Ships discreet. 30-day returns on unopened merchandise.

Grab One

Last updated: March 2026