Flex-Tip Technology (FTX)

Defense Hunting

Hornady's FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding) bullet revolutionized lever-action ammunition by using a soft elastomer tip instead of rigid polymer. This flexible tip compresses safely in tubular magazines (eliminating chain-fire risk) while still initiating expansion on impact. The FTX design is used in both Hornady's LEVERevolution hunting ammunition and Critical Defense/Duty personal defense lines. The elastomer tip also improves ballistic coefficient over traditional flat-nose lever gun bullets, extending effective range. FTX bullets have become the standard for modern lever-action hunting in calibers like .30-30, .45-70, and .44 Magnum.

Use Type

Deer Hunting

Self Defence

Specifications

Core Material: Lead
Tip: Soft elastomer (Flex Tip)
Jacket Material: Copper
Magazine Safety: Safe for tubular magazines
BC Improvement: +40% vs flat nose
Expansion: Controlled, reliable
Product Lines: LEVERevolution, Critical Defense
Best Use: Lever guns, self-defense

Comparison

Type	Tip	Tubular Safe	BC
FTX	Flex elastomer	Yes	High
Flat Nose SP	Lead	Yes	Low
Polymer Tip	Rigid polymer	NO	High

FAQ

How does FTX improve lever gun performance?

Traditional lever gun ammo uses flat-nose bullets for tubular magazine safety, which limits ballistic coefficient. FTX's pointed elastomer tip provides the BC of pointed bullets while remaining tubular-safe. This extends effective range by 100-150 yards in calibers like .30-30.

FTX in Critical Defense vs LEVERevolution?

Same core FTX technology, different applications. Critical Defense uses lighter, faster-opening FTX bullets optimized for handgun velocities. LEVERevolution uses heavier FTX bullets designed for rifle hunting. Both feature the elastomer Flex Tip.