I Pulled The PLUG!...Surprising Results! Hornady Critical Defense NO INSERT 9MM Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on November 9, 2024
Duration: 11:43

This video details a comparative ballistic gel test of Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX ammunition, specifically examining the effect of the polymer Flex Tip insert. Conducted by an experienced ammunition tester using a Glock 19 Gen 5 and LabRadar, the test reveals that removing the insert surprisingly led to greater projectile expansion, though the standard round achieved deeper penetration. The findings offer insights into the design and function of self-defense ammunition.

Quick Summary

A ballistic gel test revealed that removing the polymer Flex Tip insert from Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX ammunition resulted in greater projectile expansion (0.57-0.58 inches) but reduced penetration (11.25 inches) compared to the standard round (0.46-0.48 inches expansion, 13 inches penetration) when fired through a clothing barrier.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Overview
  2. 00:44Equipment and Setup
  3. 02:23Velocity Testing
  4. 04:20Ballistic Gel Results
  5. 08:04Projectile Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX perform in ballistic gel without its polymer tip?

Without the polymer Flex Tip insert, the Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX expanded more significantly (0.57-0.58 inches) but penetrated less deeply (11.25 inches) in ballistic gel compared to the standard round after passing through a clothing barrier.

What is the tested velocity of Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX from a 4-inch barrel?

From a 4-inch barrel, the tested average velocity for the Hornady Critical Defense 9mm 115gr FTX was 1104 fps, with a muzzle energy of 311 ft-lb, slightly lower than the advertised 1135 fps.

Does the polymer tip on Hornady Critical Defense ammunition prevent clogging?

While the polymer tip aids in expansion and maintains aerodynamics, the test suggests its primary role is to control expansion, ensuring adequate penetration through barriers, rather than solely preventing clogging.

What firearm was used for the Hornady Critical Defense 9mm ballistic gel test?

The ballistic gel test for Hornady Critical Defense 9mm ammunition was conducted using a Glock 19 Gen 5 equipped with an Olight weapon-mounted light.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Tools&Targets

View all →