Hornady 80260 Critical Defense 223Rem 73gr Flex Tip eXpanding 20 Per Box/10 Case

Defensive rifle loads require engineering that balances expansion with barrier penetration. Hornady's Critical Defense line in .223 Rem pairs a 73-grain Flex Tip projectile with brass casing for shooters across the Bay Area and beyond who prioritize terminal performance. Before purchasing ammunition in California, review California firearm laws to understand eligibility requirements.

Flex Tip Design and .223 Rem Performance

The 73-grain Flex Tip design initiates expansion on impact while maintaining structural integrity through intermediate barriers. This .223 Rem load ships in 20-round boxes with 10 boxes per case, offering volume shooters a practical purchasing option. Brass casing supports reliable feeding and extraction across modern and vintage platforms. For questions about ammunition regulations and your purchase eligibility in California, consult our California gun-buyer FAQ before ordering. Browse our gun shop.

Frequently asked questions

Does Hornady Critical Defense .223 work reliably in AR-15 rifles?

Yes. The 73-grain Flex Tip load cycles reliably in modern AR platforms. Brass casing and standard .223 Rem dimensions ensure consistent feeding and extraction without modification.

What makes the Flex Tip design different from standard hollow points?

Flex Tip combines a polymer insert with a hollow-point cavity. The insert initiates expansion reliably on impact while the hollow-point geometry controls terminal performance. This design reduces over-penetration compared to traditional FMJ loads.

Can I transfer ammo through an FFL in Sunnyvale?

Yes — TacticCAL processes ammunition shipments from online sellers under California's ammunition eligibility check requirements. Looking for gun store Oakland? Visit us in Sunnyvale.