Unleashing Peak Performance: Hornady 38 Caliber XTP 110 GR Hollow Point Bullets for Defense and Hunting

For those who demand unwavering reliability and exceptional performance from their ammunition, the Hornady XTP (Extreme Terminal Performance) 38 Caliber .357 110 Grain Hollow Point bullet stands as a paragon of precision engineering. Whether your priority is personal safety, home defense, or ethical hunting of appropriate game, selecting the right projectile is paramount. This detailed guide explores why the Hornady XTP 110 GR Hollow Point, specifically the Hornady 35700, has earned its world-class reputation among discerning shooters and why it’s a top choice for a multitude of real-world scenarios.

Why Choose Hornady XTP Bullets? The Science of Terminal Performance

When considering ammunition for critical applications such as self-defense or hunting, the primary objective is predictable and effective terminal performance. This means the bullet must perform consistently upon impact, delivering decisive energy transfer and controlled expansion. The Hornady XTP bullet is meticulously engineered to achieve exactly this, offering a unique blend of accuracy, controlled expansion, and penetration that sets it apart.

The core strength of the XTP design lies in its sophisticated construction, a testament to Hornady's commitment to innovation in ammunition technology. Unlike simpler bullet designs, the XTP incorporates precise serrations along its gilding metal jacket. These serrations are not merely aesthetic; they serve a critical function, strategically weakening the jacket to initiate and control expansion. This means that even at lower velocities, where some hollow point designs might fail to expand, the XTP bullet reliably opens up, creating a wider wound channel and maximizing energy transfer. This consistent expansion is a key factor in its effectiveness, whether for stopping a threat or ensuring a humane takedown during hunting.

Furthermore, the gilding metal jacket itself is designed to protect the nose of the bullet, ensuring integrity during feeding in various firearms and contributing to its excellent ballistic consistency. Beneath this protective jacket lies a lead core with total uniformity of density. This meticulous attention to core density ensures balanced expansion, preventing erratic yawing or tumbling upon impact, and contributing significantly to the bullet's in-flight stability. Such stability translates directly into superior accuracy, a trait that has historically led many competitive shooters to adopt the XTP for its pinpoint precision.

Key Design Elements for Superior Performance:

• Precision Serrations: Strategically placed cuts in the jacket ensure reliable and controlled expansion, even at lower impact velocities, maximizing energy transfer.
• Gilding Metal Jacket: Provides robust protection for the bullet's nose, promoting smooth feeding in firearms and maintaining ballistic integrity.
• Uniform Core Density: Guarantees balanced expansion and exceptional in-flight stability, leading to unparalleled accuracy.
• Secured Core: The core is mechanically locked into the jacket, preventing core-jacket separation and ensuring consistent performance through various barriers.

Understanding the .38 Caliber .357 110 Grain Specification

The Hornady 35700 XTP bullet is designed for the .38 caliber, specifically with a .357-inch bullet diameter. This makes it suitable for use in firearms chambered for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. While commonly associated with revolvers, many pistol caliber carbines and some semi-automatic pistols also utilize these calibers. The "110 GR" refers to the bullet's weight in grains (1 grain = 1/7000 of a pound), a relatively light projectile for these calibers. This lighter weight typically translates to higher muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories, especially when compared to heavier 125-grain or 158-grain alternatives.

The choice of a 110-grain hollow point is significant. For self-defense applications, lighter, faster bullets can sometimes offer quicker expansion, which is desirable in close-quarters engagements. In hunting scenarios where legal and ethical, a faster, expanding bullet can deliver more immediate energy to small to medium-sized game. It’s crucial to match the bullet weight and type to the intended purpose and to ensure compatibility with your specific firearm.

Real-World Applications of the Hornady XTP 110 GR Hollow Point

The versatility of the Hornady XTP 110 GR Hollow Point (UPC 090255235708) makes it an excellent choice for a variety of critical uses. Its proven track record in both law enforcement and civilian self-defense scenarios speaks volumes about its effectiveness.

1. Self-Defense and Personal Protection:
When faced with a life-threatening situation, the ability of ammunition to decisively neutralize a threat is paramount. The XTP's controlled expansion and reliable penetration characteristics are precisely what is needed for personal defense. For those seeking the "best self-defense ammunition" for their .38 Special or .357 Magnum firearm, the Hornady XTP is frequently cited by experts and enthusiasts alike.

• Why it excels for self-defense: Its consistent expansion creates a sufficient wound channel to incapacitate a threat quickly, while its controlled penetration minimizes the risk of over-penetration in urban or residential environments. The gilding metal jacket ensures reliable feeding in revolvers and semi-automatic pistols chambered for these calibers, a critical factor when seconds count.

2. Home Defense:
Similar to personal protection, home defense scenarios demand ammunition that performs reliably without excessive over-penetration that could endanger other occupants or neighbors. The 110-grain XTP offers a balance, providing effective stopping power while still managing potential through-and-through issues on typical interior walls. Many homeowners ask, "What's the safest and most effective ammunition for home defense?" The Hornady XTP is a strong contender due to its controlled expansion.

3. Law Enforcement Use:
Historically, the XTP bullet has been a popular choice among law enforcement agencies for its consistent performance and accuracy. Officers often face unpredictable situations, requiring ammunition that can perform across a range of distances and targets. The XTP's reputation for reliability in varied conditions makes it a trusted option for those whose lives depend on their equipment.

4. Handgun Hunting:
For hunters pursuing small to medium-sized game with a handgun, the Hornady XTP 110 GR hollow point can be an ethical and effective choice, provided it's used within appropriate range and on game suitable for the caliber.

• What game is it suitable for? This bullet weight and design are often considered appropriate for varmints, small predators (like coyotes), and potentially some smaller deer species, depending on local regulations and shot placement.
• Key advantages for hunting: The controlled expansion ensures a clean and humane harvest by maximizing energy transfer and creating a sufficient wound channel. Its accuracy allows for precise shot placement, which is crucial for ethical hunting.

Optimizing Your Ammunition Choice: What to Consider

Selecting the right ammunition goes beyond just bullet type. Here are critical factors to keep in mind when choosing and using Hornady XTP bullets (UPC 090255235708):

• Firearm Compatibility: While the bullet itself is .357 caliber, ensure your firearm is chambered for .38 Special or .357 Magnum. Always check your firearm’s manual.
• Muzzle Velocity and Energy: Lighter bullets like the 110 GR XTP typically achieve higher velocities, which can translate to flatter trajectories and increased energy at closer ranges. Understanding your specific ammunition's ballistic data (often provided by Hornady) is crucial for predicting performance.
• Bullet Coefficient and Sectional Density: The listed Ballistic Coefficient (BC) of .131 and Sectional Density (SD) of .123 are technical specifications that indicate how efficiently the bullet flies through the air and how well it penetrates. While the 110 GR XTP is optimized for terminal performance, these figures highlight its aerodynamic stability and ability to penetrate.
• Ammunition Storage: Proper storage is vital for maintaining ammunition integrity. Store in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity, to ensure longevity and consistent performance.
• Training and Practice: The most sophisticated ammunition is only as effective as the shooter behind it. Regular practice with your chosen self-defense or hunting ammunition is essential to build proficiency and confidence. This includes understanding your firearm's recoil characteristics with this specific load.

Hornady: A Legacy of Excellence in Ammunition Manufacturing

Hornady has been a leading name in the ammunition industry for decades, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and ballistic excellence. Founded on the principle of "Ten bullets through one hole," the company’s dedication to precision and performance is evident in every product they produce, including the XTP line. When you choose Hornady, you're not just buying a bullet; you're investing in a legacy of engineering superiority and a product trusted by professional shooters, hunters, and law enforcement agencies worldwide. The Hornady 35700 XTP 110 GR Hollow Point is a direct beneficiary of this profound expertise, reflecting the brand’s unwavering focus on creating ammunition that performs flawlessly when it matters most.

This specific Hornady product, the 35700 XTP, is consistently available through reputable retailers like DEGuns.com, ensuring that shooters and defenders have reliable access to high-quality ammunition designed for their most critical needs. When searching for where to buy Hornady XTP bullets, DEGuns.com offers a convenient and trustworthy source for this essential component of your shooting or defense strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hornady XTP Bullets

Q: Is the Hornady XTP a good self-defense round?
A: Yes, the Hornady XTP is widely regarded as an excellent self-defense round. Its design focuses on controlled expansion and reliable penetration, making it highly effective at neutralizing threats while mitigating risks of over-penetration. It's a favorite among law enforcement and civilians for its consistent performance.

Q: Can I use 38 Caliber Hornady XTP 110 GR in a .357 Magnum revolver?
A: Absolutely. While labeled as ".38 Caliber," the bullet diameter is .357 inches, making it perfectly compatible with firearms chambered for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum. Many .357 Magnum firearms can safely and effectively fire .38 Special ammunition, though the reverse is not true.

Q: What is the benefit of a 110-grain hollow point?
A: A 110-grain hollow point in .38 caliber typically achieves higher velocities compared to heavier bullet weights. This can lead to quicker, more reliable expansion, especially beneficial for self-defense where rapid energy transfer is crucial. It also often results in less recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate for some shooters.

Q: How does the XTP's expansion differ from other hollow points?
A: The XTP utilizes precise serrations on its jacket to ensure controlled and consistent expansion, even at lower velocities. This patented design prevents the common issue of non-expansion or over-expansion seen in some other hollow point designs, ensuring optimal terminal performance across a broader velocity range.

Q: Is the Hornady XTP suitable for hunting deer?
A: For deer, especially larger species, heavier bullets (125-grain or 158-grain) in .357 Magnum are generally preferred for deeper penetration and more significant energy transfer. The 110-grain .38 Special XTP might be suitable for smaller deer or if used in a .357 Magnum load at closer ranges, but hunters should always verify local regulations and consider the ethical implications of projectile choice for the specific game. It is often more appropriately used for smaller game like varmints or coyotes.

Q: Where can I purchase Hornady XTP 110 GR Hollow Point bullets?
A: The Hornady 35700 XTP 38 Caliber .357 110 GR Hollow Point 100 Box (UPC 090255235708) is readily available from authorized dealers. A reputable source is DEGuns.com, which offers a wide selection of Hornady products and other premium ammunition.

Q: What does "gilding metal jacket" mean?
A: Gilding metal is an alloy, typically 95% copper and 5% zinc, used for bullet jackets. It's chosen for its strength, ductility, and ability to hold rifling engravings without excessive barrel wear. This material helps the XTP bullet maintain its form during flight and provides controlled expansion upon impact.

Choosing the right ammunition is a critical decision for any responsible firearm owner. The Hornady 38 Caliber .357 110 GR Hollow Point XTP (UPC 090255235708) offers a compelling combination of proven accuracy, reliable terminal performance, and Hornady’s unwavering commitment to quality. It is designed to empower you with confidence, whether your focus is personal defense, home security, or responsible hunting.

Hornady XTP 110 GR Hollow Point Key Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Hornady
Model	XTP
Caliber	38 Cal
Bullet Weight	110 gr
Bullet Type	Hollow Point
Bullet Diameter	.357
Core Material	Lead
Jacket Material	Copper
Application	Defense / Hunting
Rounds Per Box	100
Boxes Per Case	25
Ballistic Coefficient	.131
Sectional Density	.123
UPC	090255235708
MPN	35700
SKU	86718