Saved The BEST For Last!...Critical Defense .38 Special +P Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on February 28, 2026
Duration: 12:31

This video provides an expert-level ballistic gel test of Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX ammunition, conducted by an experienced firearms instructor. The test details muzzle velocity measurements from 2-inch and 3-inch revolvers, projectile expansion, and penetration depths through a heavy clothing barrier and ballistic gel. The instructor offers insights into the ammunition's performance and suitability for self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

An experienced firearms instructor conducted a ballistic gel test of Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX ammunition using 2-inch and 3-inch revolvers. Results showed average velocities of 1004 fps (2") and 1031 fps (3"), with penetration depths of 14.25" and 12.5" respectively, and good expansion.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Range Conditions & Test Setup
  2. 00:50Ammunition Introduction
  3. 01:18Previous Test Comparisons
  4. 02:13Testing Methodology & Expectations
  5. 03:002-inch Barrel Velocity Results
  6. 03:583-inch Barrel Velocity Results
  7. 05:11Gel Test Initiation
  8. 05:53Recoil & Report Assessment
  9. 06:38Gel Impact Analysis
  10. 07:39Penetration Measurements
  11. 08:35Projectile Expansion Comparison
  12. 09:21Expanded Diameter Measurements
  13. 10:04Final Ammunition Recommendation
  14. 11:26Velocity vs. Performance Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key performance metrics for Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX ammunition?

From a 2-inch barrel, average MV was 1004 fps, with 14.25" penetration and ~0.464" expansion. From a 3-inch barrel, average MV was 1031 fps, with 12.5" penetration and ~0.48" expansion. Recoil is mild.

How does Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX perform in ballistic gel with a clothing barrier?

The ammunition demonstrated good expansion and penetration through a heavy clothing barrier and ballistic gel. The +P load showed improved terminal ballistics over standard pressure loads, with manageable recoil.

What firearms were used in the ballistic gel test?

The test utilized a 2-inch barrel Taurus 856 revolver and a 3-inch barrel Smith & Wesson 686+ revolver to evaluate the performance of the Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX ammunition across different barrel lengths.

Is Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110gr FTX recommended for self-defense?

Yes, the experienced firearms instructor recommends this ammunition for self-defense, citing its effective balance of penetration, expansion, and manageable recoil, making it a superior option to standard pressure loads.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Tools&Targets

View all →