Video: Hornady’s Critical Defense Lite

Take aim at two lethal threats: human attackers and breast cancer.

posted on October 23, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Hornady’s Critical Defense Lite self-defense pistol ammunition is much more than a pretty pink polymer tip. It’s a way to take aim at two lethal threats: human attackers and breast cancer. The fact that it’s called “lite” refers not to its terminal performance (which happens to be tremendous, thank you very much), nor to its caloric content (although breast cancer does make us mad enough to spit bullets). Hornady’s Critical Defense is called “Lite” because it offers reduced recoil and reduced muzzle flash without sacrificing stopping power. 

In this video, NRA Women contributor Kristy Titus demonstrates the message that is at the core of self-defense strategy: When you are one-on-one with someone bent on harming you, you must be able to rely on yourself. Hornady’s Critical Defense Lite was designed to open the path to self-reliance, especially for people with reduced hand strength or medical conditions.

But what about that pretty pink polymer tip? That’s there to allow maximum impact, even through thick clothing. It’s pink because Hornady donates a portion of the proceeds from sales to breast-cancer research—almost $40,000 last year alone!

Hornady assures us that they are moving Heaven and Earth to get as much Critical Defense Lite (among other popular loads) onto American shelves as possible. If you’re having a hard time finding it, here’s an article with our best advice to get some for yourself. Hornady.com

Latest

Mission First Pocket Holster Lede
Mission First Pocket Holster Lede

New Gear 2026: Mission First Tactical Pocket Holster

The holster's unique profile design helps keep the firearm in position while mimicking the profile of a cell phone.

What's an NRA Woman to do at the 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits? SO Much!

Registration is now open for NRA's largest and most exciting event of the year—this year in Houston, Texas.

Registration for the SIG Sauer ROSE Retreat is Now Open

The ROSE Retreat is an immersive, women-only experience designed to help you grow in confidence, skill and connection.

The Armed Citizen® February 27, 2026

A woman allegedly being assaulted by her boyfriend put a deadly stop to the abuse.

Women for Gun Rights Hosts Ladies Summit

The event, attended by top social media personalities, was designed to introduce women outside the traditional firearms industry to hands-on education rooted in freedom-based values and personal responsibility.

Team Colt's Jalise Williams Victorious at 2025 World Shoot

Williams earned Classic Overall Ladies and Overall Team Champion, and also finished 14th Overall in the Classic Division—the highest placement ever achieved by a woman in Classic Division competition at a World Shoot.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.