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

Rao 4 Rules RSO On Range Photo By Rao
Rao 4 Rules RSO On Range Photo By Rao

4 Rules NRA Instructors Should Follow When Training Students

Don't stop with the the bare minimum when it comes to safety in the classroom. Go one step further and implement additional rules that apply to your location.

Tips for Setting Up a Tripod in Your Deer Blind

It's trickier than it looks. Here's how to make sure you and your tripod are in the ideal position for getting your game on target.

Uniquely American: The American Bison

The American bison is North America’s largest land mammal.

4 D’s of Securing Your Home

When it comes to making your home a hard target for intruders and burglars, it’s all about these four steps.

New Guns 2025: Springfield Armory SAINT Victors

Shorter, lighter and handier are all reasons this new iteration of the SAINT is a great choice for women learning how to use an AR-platform rifle.

The Armed Citizen® Reload November 14, 2025

One woman defends the life of her infant child, while another defends herself from an abusive adult daughter.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.