Product SKU # :TS90300  |  MPN: 90300  | UPC # :090255903003

Hornady Ammunition 

Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300

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Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
USDTargetSportsUSA26.50
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USDTargetSportsUSA265.00
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AVAILABLE : 99+ in stock
AVAILABLE : 64 in stock

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You must be 21 years or older to order ammunition. Ammunition must ship UPS ground. Due to safety considerations and legal/regulatory reasons, Ammunition may not be returned. Please check local laws before ordering. By ordering this Ammunition, you certify you are of legal age and satisfy all federal, state and local legal/regulatory requirements to purchase this Ammunition.

Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300

The Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition is designed for self-defense and personal protection. It features a 90-grain Flex Tip Expanding bullet that ensures reliable performance in critical situations. Engineered to offer reduced recoil for better control, this ammunition is ideal for those seeking a balance between power and ease of use. The light recoil and high efficiency make it perfect for use in smaller, lightweight handguns, providing increased accuracy and terminal performance. As part of Hornady's prestigious Critical Defense line, it offers the exceptional quality and innovation that Hornady is known for worldwide.

Features and Specifications:

  • Performance Metrics: With a muzzle velocity of 1200 fps and a muzzle energy of 288 ft. lbs, it offers reliable stopping power and manageable recoil.
  • Flex Tip Technology: The patented Flex Tip design aids in initiating consistent expansion upon impact, ensuring maximum energy transfer.
  • Compatibility: Specifically designed for 38 Special firearms, it is perfect for everyday carry and personal defense scenarios.
  • Reloadable: Brass casing allows for reloading, offering shooters the ability to reuse components.
  • Safe Shipping: Exclusively ships via UPS/FedEx Ground for safety and compliance with shipping regulations.
    Deep Dive

Overview

The Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition is specifically crafted for individuals who prioritize personal protection with minimal recoil. This makes it especially suitable for newer shooters or those sensitive to heavier recoil while maintaining effective defensive capabilities. Utilizing Hornady's innovative Flex Tip technology, which promotes consistent expansion in various conditions, this round provides both reliability and performance. Its design enhances user experiences by offering simpler control without sacrificing power, ensuring it is a recommended choice for responsible gun owners looking to strengthen their defense strategies.

History and Development

Hornady has a long-standing reputation for developing ammunition that meets the demands of modern shooters. The Critical Defense Lite series was introduced to address a growing need for high-quality self-defense ammo that minimizes recoil but retains effectiveness. Hornady achieved this with its groundbreaking Flex Tip Expanding bullet technology, initially developed to combat issues with conventional hollow points. By offering enhancements such as precise expansion and penetration, Hornady's innovations have positioned the Critical Defense Lite as a leader in self-defense solutions.

Common Questions and FAQs

  • What makes the "Lite" version different from other 38 Special rounds?
    The Lite version is designed with a lighter, 90-grain bullet to reduce recoil, making it easier to handle, especially in lightweight handguns.
  • How does the Flex Tip Expanding technology work?
    The Flex Tip insert helps initiate expansion by preventing clogging upon impact, ensuring maximum energy transfer and reliable wound channels.
  • Is this ammunition suitable for all 38 Special handguns?
    While it is compatible with most 38 Special firearms, always consult your handgun's specifications to confirm compatibility.
  • How is this ammunition packaged, and are bulk options available?
    This ammunition is typically sold in boxed quantities up to 50 rounds; check with retailers for case options that qualify for free shipping deals.
  • Can this ammo be used in shooting competitions?
    It is primarily designed for self-defense, but it may be suitable for practice or low-recoil events depending on the rules of your competition.
  • Does this ammo meet all safety standards?
    Yes, Hornady is committed to manufacturing high-quality ammunition that meets or exceeds industry safety standards.

The 'Round Up'

Perfect Fit for:

  • Personal Defense

Why It Stands Out:

Hornady's Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition combines innovative design with practical performance for personal protection. With its reduced recoil and Flex Tip Expanding technology, it stands out as a top choice for shooters needing reliable, self-defense ammunition. Suitable for a wide array of handgun owners, it fulfills the need for a balance of effectiveness and ease of use, representing Hornady's commitment to quality and security.

Field Details
MPN90300
UPC090255903003
ManufacturerHornady Ammunition
PlatformHandgun
Ammo ApplicationPersonal Defense
Ammo TypeFlex Tip Expanding
Caliber38 Special Ammo
Grain Weight90
Quantity Per PackageBox of 25 / Case of 250
Test Barrel LengthNot Provided
Muzzle Velocity1200 fps
Muzzle Energy288 ft. lbs
Ballistic Coefficient (G1).095
Case TypeBrass Casing
Primer TypeBoxer
CorrosiveNo
ReloadableYes
Lead FreeNo
Staked PrimerNot Provided
Country of OriginUSA

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SHIPPING AMMUNITION


Attention Ammunition Buyers You must be 21 years or older to order ammunition. Ammo must ship UPS/FedEx Ground. For safety reasons, we cannot accept returns on ammo. Always, make sure that you use the correct ammunition for your gun. Please check local laws before ordering.


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Ammo Shipping Zones
Target Sports USA only ships ammo to Contiguous 48 states only. We do not ship ammo to Alaska & Hawaii 
   
Proposition 65 Warning
 This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.

Reviews

53 Customer Review(s)
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Comments and Reviews on Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
Performancestarstarstarstarstar
Valuestarstarstarstarstar
Qualitystarstarstarstarstar
got these for wife to shoot out of her marlin 1894 zero recoil
Reviewed by Joseph  W
2/21/2025 6:08:27 PM
Comments and Reviews on Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
Performancestarstarstarstarstar
Valuestarstarstarstarstar
Qualitystarstarstarstarstar
Great ammo for my wife low recoil especially for her ultra light lavender lady
Reviewed by Brian  D
2/7/2025 10:47:03 PM
Comments and Reviews on Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
Performancestarstarstarstarstar
Valuestarstarstarstarstar
Qualitystarstarstarstarstar
Great Carry ammo, no issues with this round from Hornady Critical Defense! Thanks TSUSA!
Reviewed by clyde  w
12/16/2024 6:31:41 PM
Comments and Reviews on Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
Performancestarstarstarstarstar
Valuestarstarstarstarstar
Qualitystarstarstarstarstar
Ok for target practice, great rounds produced by Hornady Critical Defense Lite! Thank you TSUSA!
Reviewed by Luis  S
12/1/2024 1:52:12 PM
Comments and Reviews on Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special Ammunition 90 Grain Flex Tip Expanding - 90300
Performancestarstarstarstarstar
Valuestarstarstarstarstar
Qualitystarstarstarstarstar
Purchased for daughter in law for her carry revolver
Reviewed by Gary  R
3/25/2025 1:19:24 AM
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Hornady Ammo For sale at TargetSportsUSA.com. Target Sports USA has the entire line of Hornady Ammunition for sale online with free shipping on bulk ammo at cheap discount prices. Hornady Ammunition is made in the Untied States and offers a premium quality ammo. Hornady Ammunition manufactures Handgun Ammo, Rifle Ammo, Shotgun Ammo and mostly known for their high quality precision rifle cartgides such as 6.5 Creedmoor ammo and many others.


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