I'm curious about this round. I've always thought Hornady made a quality product. I've read a few articles lately. When you look at the tables and charts and the fine print on the test conditions and so on, the ammo appears to get decent velocity and penetration. Clean burning powder and low flash would be a plus too. It is nice to hear a first person report. I will probably pick up a box of the .38 special +P in the new year.
I use the critical defense ammo in standard velocity non +P. I like it a lot. For a 110 bullet it get deep on penetration which I like. See "Best Choices for self defense ammo". Scroll down to 38 special FXT v DPX v speer.
I use the critical defense in both standard and +P, in my 442 and 642's. Shoots great but there is a noricable difference in flash and muzzle rise withthe +P.
the .38 spl +p 110gr Hornady Critical Defense FTX load is currently in my two-tone 442 (along w/ 2 speedloaders & 2 Bianchi Speed Strips); it recoils @ the same as Winchester WWB Personal Defense 125gr jhp .38 spl +p that can be bought @ Walmart; the recoil seems lighter than the Remington Express 158gr lswchp .38 spl +p load