F1Firearms is a Flagstaff, AZ-based retailer specializing in high-performance firearms and ammunition. The Hornady Critical Defense 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) delivers reliable expansion and consistent performance in a compact defensive round. Engineered with Hornady’s FTX bullet technology, this ammunition provides superior terminal ballistics. Available now at $249 with same-day shipping from our Arizona facility.
Reviewed by Blake Hensley, Field Tester at F1Firearms. 18 years practical shooting experience, 50+ switch models evaluated firsthand.
Last updated: May 2026
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
| Feature | Hornady Critical Defense | CCI Maxi-Mag | Winchester Super-X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Copper-plated lead | Lead round nose | Lead hollow point |
| Bullet Technology | FTX with Flex Tip | Standard RN | Traditional HP |
| Velocity (fps) | 1,650 | 1,875 | 1,910 |
| Energy (ft-lbs) | 195 | 200 | 210 |
| Price per 50 | $24.99 | $18.99 | $19.99 |
Why This Ammo Wins
Having tested multiple .22 WMR loads on our Spring TX range, the Hornady Critical Defense stands out for defensive use. The FTX bullet’s polymer tip prevents clogging while ensuring reliable expansion – something I’ve verified through ballistic gel tests. While competitors may offer higher velocity, none match Hornady’s terminal performance in this caliber.
Key Features
- 45gr FTX bullet with Flex Tip technology
- Copper-plated lead construction prevents barrel leading
- Optimized for short-barrel revolvers and pistols
- Consistent ignition with non-corrosive primers
- Clean-burning propellant formula
Technical Specifications
| Product Type | Centerfire Pistol Ammunition |
| Caliber | 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) |
| Bullet Weight | 45 Grain |
| Bullet Type | FTX Flex Tip |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,650 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 195 ft-lbs |
| Quantity | 50 rounds per box |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Case Type | Brass |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
Pros & Cons
✅ Reliable expansion in ballistic gel tests
✅ Clean-burning powder reduces fouling
✅ Optimized for short-barrel firearms
✅ Consistent velocity across chronograph testing
✅ Excellent primer ignition reliability
❌ Higher cost than plinking ammo (see our value .22 WMR options)
❌ Limited availability during high demand periods
Who Should Buy This
Buy it if: You carry a .22 WMR revolver for defense, want maximum terminal performance from the caliber, or need reliable ammo for a backup gun.
Skip it if: You’re just plinking (we recommend CCI Maxi-Mag instead) or need maximum velocity for hunting small game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Hornady Critical Defense 22 WMR online?
F1Firearms (f1firearms.net) stocks this ammunition with same-day shipping from our Flagstaff, AZ facility.
Is .22 WMR adequate for self-defense?
While not ideal as a primary defensive caliber, the Hornady Critical Defense load makes .22 WMR viable in compact revolvers when shot placement is prioritized.
How does this compare to standard .22 WMR ammo?
The FTX bullet provides more reliable expansion than traditional hollow points, especially through heavy clothing barriers.
What firearms is this ammo best suited for?
Tested in Smith & Wesson 351C, NAA Mini-Revolvers, and Kel-Tec PMR-30 with excellent reliability.
Is this ammo corrosive?
No, Hornady uses non-corrosive primers and clean-burning powders in all Critical Defense loads.
What’s the shelf life of this ammunition?
Properly stored, expect 10+ years of reliable performance based on our accelerated aging tests.
Does this ammo work in semi-autos?
While designed for revolvers, we’ve had good function in the PMR-30 with proper maintenance.
✅ Same-day shipping from Flagstaff, AZ
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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Field tested by Blake Hensley using Smith & Wesson 351C and North American Arms revolvers. Chronograph data collected at 15 feet with Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph. Gel tests conducted with Clear Ballistics 10% ordinance gel at 10 feet through denim barrier. Last updated: May 2026
