Hornady 40 S&W 175gr FlexLock Critical Defense Handgun Ammunition

Reliable Self-Defense Performance with Maximum Stopping Power

Hornady 40 S&W 175gr FlexLock Critical Defense Handgun Ammunition is engineered for dependable performance when it matters most. Designed specifically for concealed carry and personal protection, this premium defensive round features Hornady’s patented FlexLock® bullet, combining barrier-blind performance, consistent expansion, and controlled penetration to meet critical duty needs.

Product Description

Trusted by law enforcement and responsible citizens alike, the Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W 175gr ammunition delivers a precise balance of power, reliability, and expansion. Its FlexLock bullet incorporates a Flex Tip insert and InterLock band to ensure consistent mushrooming while retaining weight—even after passing through heavy clothing or other barriers.

Key Features

• FlexLock® Bullet Design: Prevents clogging and delivers controlled expansion and deep penetration.

• Flex Tip® Technology: Enhances bullet expansion while maintaining terminal performance through clothing and barriers.

• InterLock® Band: Keeps the jacket and core locked together for superior weight retention.

• Low-Flash Propellants: Optimized for visibility and performance in low-light or nighttime conditions.

• Nickel-Plated Brass Cases: Corrosion-resistant and smooth feeding in all handgun platforms.

• Barrier-Blind Capability: Maintains performance through common urban barriers (auto glass, drywall, etc.).

Specifications

• Caliber: .40 S&W

• Bullet Weight: 175 grains

• Bullet Type: FlexLock® (Jacketed Hollow Point with Flex Tip)

• Muzzle Velocity: Approx. 1,010 fps

• Muzzle Energy: Approx. 396 ft-lbs

• Case Type: Nickel-plated brass

• Primer Type: Boxer

• Rounds per Box: 20

• Intended Use: Self-defense, concealed carry, duty use

Benefits

• Delivers consistent expansion for rapid energy transfer

• Maintains structural integrity for deep, effective penetration

• Minimizes risk of over-penetration in urban or confined environments

• Engineered to function flawlessly in semi-automatic handguns

• Backed by Hornady’s reputation for dependable defensive ammunition

Usage Instructions

• Use only in firearms chambered for .40 S&W

• Follow all local and federal regulations regarding ammunition use and storage

• Store in a cool, dry place to preserve shelf life and performance

Warranty

Hornady ammunition is backed by a limited warranty covering defects in materials and craftsmanship. For any concerns, contact Hornady customer support.

Be prepared and protected with Hornady 40 S&W 175gr FlexLock Critical Defense Ammunition—trusted, tested, and built for when it matters most.

Ammunition Shipping Disclaimer:

Federal law mandates that you must be at least 18 years old to purchase rifles, shotguns, and their respective ammunition, and at least 21 years old to purchase all other firearms and ammunition. Ammunition will be shipped via ground service by the carrier of our choice to the contiguous 48 states only.  A street address is required for delivery. There is no option for shipping ammunition to international customers. 

For safety reasons, we do not accept returns on ammunition with no exception. Always make sure you are using the correct ammunition for your firearm.

DNW Outdoors customers in LA, DC, MN, PA, NY, NJ, MA, IL, CT, and CA should check with their local laws for ammunition restrictions before placing an order.

Due to New York State Law requiring a NICS background check at the time of ammunition purchase DNW Outdoors will not be able to sell and ship ammunition to the State of New York. 

Residents of Illinois purchasing ammunition must provide proof of a FOID card via email  at onlinesales1@dnwoutdoors.com with the subject line FOID before ammunition purchased will be shipped.

Residents of New Jersey purchasing ammunition must provide proof of  a FPIC card or New Jersey Handgun permit via email to onlinesales1@dnwoutdoors.com with the subject line of “FPIC” before  the ammunition purchased will be shipped.

Residents of Connecticut purchasing ammunition must provide proof of a Ammunition Eligibility Certificate or Permit to via email to onlinesales1@dnwoutdoors.com with the subject line of “Ammunition Eligibility Certificate”

DNW Outdoors reserves the right to ask for proof of age when buying age restricted items such as ammunition and firearms. No Exceptions.

**WARNING:** This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov