Hornady American Gunner 357 Magnum Ammo 125 Grain Hornady XTP Jacketed Hollow Point Box of 500

Description

The Hornady American Gunner 357 Magnum in 125-grain XTP is my go-to bulk pack for serious revolver practice and reliable defensive use. This isn’t boutique ammo, it’s a high-quality workhorse load designed for shooters who need consistency by the case. After decades of testing, I’ve found this specific combination of the proven XTP bullet at a full-power velocity hits a sweet spot of performance and value.

Key Features

• 125-Grain Hornady XTP Jacketed Hollow Point: This isn’t a new, unproven projectile. The XTP (eXtreme Terminal Performance) is a legend for controlled expansion and deep penetration. I’ve seen firsthand how reliably it performs across different mediums.
• Full-Power 357 Magnum Load: This isn’t a mild “38 Special +P” masquerading as a 357. You get the real deal ballistics, delivering the signature power and muzzle flash the cartridge is known for.
• Box of 500 Rounds: The bulk packaging is the main draw here. It brings the cost per round down significantly compared to buying 20-round boxes, making serious practice sessions economically feasible.
• Reliable Brass Cases & Primers: Hornady uses quality components. In my shop, I’ve loaded and fired thousands of their cases without issue. The primers are consistently hot for reliable ignition.

Specifications

Caliber	357 Magnum
Bullet Weight	125 Grain
Bullet Type	Hornady XTP Jacketed Hollow Point
Muzzle Velocity	Approx. 1450 fps (from 4″ barrel)
Quantity	500 Rounds
Case Type	Boxer-Primed Brass

Honest Assessment

Pros: The value in a 500-round case is excellent for a premium hollow point. The XTP bullet is a proven performer that expands reliably without coming apart. The load is consistent—I’ve run thousands of rounds of this stuff through various GP100s and Smith & Wessons with flawless function.

Cons: This is a hot load. Recoil and muzzle blast are substantial, which can be punishing in lightweight revolvers and isn’t ideal for new shooters. Also, while great for practice, some folks prefer a heavier bullet (like 158 grain) for their final defensive load, as it may offer better barrier penetration.

Who Should Buy This

This ammo is perfect for the revolver owner who wants to stock up on a single, high-performance load for both training and bedside duty. It’s ideal for those with medium or large-frame 357s who aren’t recoil-sensitive and want to practice with the same bullet they’d use for protection. It’s also a smart buy for handloaders who want to shoot the XTP bullets but appreciate the savings of factory-loaded ammunition in bulk.

FAQ

Is this suitable for a 2-inch snubnose revolver?

You can fire it, but you’ll be giving up a lot of velocity (expect around 1250 fps) and dealing with fierce recoil and flash. For a dedicated snubnose carry load, a 38 Special +P or a lighter-recoiling 357 load might be more practical for control and follow-up shots.

How does this compare to Hornady’s Critical Defense line?

The Critical Defense line uses the FTX bullet with a polymer tip, designed for more reliable expansion at lower velocities (like from short barrels) and to prevent clogging with clothing. The American Gunner XTP is a more traditional, proven hollow point. It’s a workhorse, while Critical Defense is more specialized for compact carry guns.

Is the brass good for reloading?

Absolutely. Hornady uses quality brass. I’ve reloaded these cases multiple times. They hold up well, and the primer pockets stay tight. It’s one of the reasons this bulk pack is such a good deal for shooters who reload.