The Ultimate Guide to 5.7x28mm Ammunition Pistols and Rifles [2023]

Posted by Gunprime Staff on 02/24/23

The Ultimate Guide to 5.7x28mm Ammunition Pistols and Rifles [2023]

Are you curious about the history of the 5.7 calibers and why it's considered a must-have for gun enthusiasts? Look no further because we've got you covered. In this article, we'll delve into the origins of the 5.7×28mm cartridge, which was developed by FN Herstal in response to NATO's need for a replacement for the 9×19mm Parabellum. We'll also explore the best pistol and rifle options for this caliber, as well as the top-performing ammo to pair with them.

If you're a fan of Smith and Wesson, you won't want to miss out on their latest addition to the 5.7 family - a pistol with the lightest recoil yet. We'll also dive into the cartridge's features, such as its small-caliber, high-velocity, smokeless powder, rebated rim, and bottlenecked centerfire design.

As we explore the 5.7's popularity, you'll discover that FN's P90 PDW and Five-seven pistol are currently in service with military and police forces in over 40 countries worldwide. In the United States, law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service, have adopted 5.7×28mm firearms.

But the 5.7's popularity doesn't stop there. It's been used in a variety of weapons such as the AR-57 and FN PS90 carbines, and even companies like Excel Arms, MasterPiece Arms, and CMMG have developed firearms chambered in 5.7×28mm. Ruger and Kel-Tec have also joined the trend with their own 5.7 pistol options.

And, if you're on the hunt for a new firearm, keep your eye out for Palmetto State Armory's Rock 5.7 pistol, set to hit the market soon.

With so much to discover, you won't want to miss out on all there is to know about the 5.7×28mm cartridge and the best guns and ammo to use with it.

History of the 5.7x28mm: Why was it developed?

Image from: Historical Firearms

Imagine if James Bond had a hand in designing a new cartridge for NATO's elite forces. That's exactly how the 5.7x28mm cartridge came to be. It was a response to NATO's request for a replacement to the popular 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, but with even greater range, accuracy, and terminal performance, as well as the ability to penetrate body armor. Enter FN Herstal, who not only met but exceeded NATO's requirements by developing not one, but two weapons to fire the new cartridge - the iconic FN P90 personal defense weapon and the sleek FN Five-seven pistol.

The original version of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, known as the SS90, was introduced in 1990 and featured a plastic-core projectile that could reach muzzle velocities of up to 2,800 ft/s when fired from the P90. A patent for the projectile design was filed by FN's Jean-Paul Denis and Marc Neuforge in 1989, and the High-Performance Projectile patent was awarded in 1991.

By 1993, FN had replaced the SS90 with the improved SS190 cartridge, featuring a shorter projectile that weighed in at 2.0 g (31 gr) and reached muzzle velocities of 2,340 ft/s when fired from the P90. This allowed the SS190 to be used more conveniently in the FN Five-seven pistol, which went into production in 1998.

But that's not all - FN also developed specialized 5.7x28mm rounds like the L191 tracer round and the subsonic SB193 bullet for sound-suppressed use. And if you're wondering just how powerful this cartridge really is, when fired from the P90, the SS190 can even penetrate a NATO CRISAT vest or a Level IIIA Kevlar vest at a range of 200 m. That's some serious firepower packed into a sleek, lightweight package.

5.7x28mm NATO Testing and Controversy: 5.7x28mm vs 4.6x30mm

Image from: 1911 Syndicate

Are you ready for a showdown between two of the most powerful cartridges in the world? Let's talk about the infamous lawsuit filed by HK regarding the 5.7x28mm cartridge, and why it has caused such a stir in the world of firearms.

In 2002 and 2003, NATO conducted a series of tests to find a replacement for the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. The tests compared the 5.7x28mm cartridge to the HK 4.6x30mm cartridge, created by the German small arms manufacturer Heckler & Koch. The results of the tests were analyzed by a group of experts from Canada, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who concluded that the 5.7x28mm was the more efficient cartridge by a long shot.

The NATO group cited a number of reasons for their decision, including the 5.7x28mm's superior effectiveness against unprotected targets (27 percent greater than the HK cartridge), its equal effectiveness against protected targets, and its lower sensitivity to extreme temperatures. They also noted that the 5.7x28mm was easier to manufacture and had a lower risk of barrel erosion than the HK cartridge. Plus, the 5.7x28mm was already in production with the FN Five-seven pistol, while the HK UCP pistol was still a new concept.

However, not everyone was on board with the NATO recommendation. The German delegation and others rejected the idea of standardizing the 5.7x28mm, and the standardization process was halted indefinitely. As a result, both the 4.6x30mm and 5.7x28mm cartridges have been independently adopted by various NATO countries, depending on their preferences.

But here's the kicker: despite the controversy, there's no denying that the 5.7x28mm is a superior cartridge in many ways. Its design and manufacturing process is similar to the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, making it easy to produce on existing production lines. And with its proven track record and widespread adoption, it's clear that the 5.7x28mm is a force to be reckoned with in the world of firearms.

5.7x28mm vs 4.6x30mm present day [2023]

Image from: Vickers Tactical

 

For the past 20 years, law enforcement agencies and elite military units have been using both the 4.6x30mm and 5.7x28mm cartridges during the war on terror. But the debate on which cartridge is superior has raged on until recently. Enter Doc, a former Army Special Forces 18D medical sergeant who has served time in the world's most elite military unit, CAG, also known as Delta Force.

One day, while Doc and I were doing some training in a shoothouse, I noticed he was wearing an FN hat. I jokingly asked him if he had a gig with FN now, to which he replied, "No. I just really like their machine guns." We bantered back and forth about the effectiveness of various weapons until I brought up the H&K MP7 and the 4.6x30mm. But Doc's response was clear: he thought they were trash. He even recounted a story of how it took a full magazine from his MP7 to take down a local terrorist overseas who was shooting at him with a Makarov.

So, what cartridge does Doc prefer? The 5.7x28mm, hands down. And it seems NATO agrees with him! After nearly 20 years of objections from the German delegation, NATO finally adopted the 5.7x28mm as an official cartridge in 2021. And with superior effectiveness against unprotected targets, less sensitivity to extreme temperatures, and greater potential for manufacture on existing production lines, it's no wonder why the 5.7x28mm came out on top.

So there you have it, folks. The controversy has finally been put to rest, and the 5.7x28mm reigns supreme. But who knows what the future holds for new cartridges and weapons? One thing is for sure, though - Doc will be ready to put them to the test.

 

5.7x28mm Ammunition: The best 5.7 Ammo to feed your 5.7 rifles and pistols

Image from: Wikipedia

 

Are you ready to learn about a cartridge that's been gaining popularity among gun enthusiasts, military personnel, and law enforcement? Look no further than the 5.7x28mm cartridge, a unique and fascinating round that has been used in both military and civilian applications around the world. Its compact size, high velocity, and low recoil make it a favorite among those who use it. In this discussion, we'll dive into the design and capabilities of this powerful cartridge, explore its various uses in different settings, and highlight some of the top ammunition manufacturers producing it. Trust us, after learning about the 5.7x28mm, you'll be wondering why you don't already own it.

5.7x28mm Cartridge Design

Image from: American Rifleman

One of the many reasons that set this cartridge apart is its lightweight construction and small diameter, allowing for extra ammunition to be carried without adding significant weight or bulk. Plus, its high-velocity results in an exceptionally flat trajectory, making it a favorite among accuracy enthusiasts that love to hose down B8s at the range.

One of the most impressive features of the 5.7×28mm cartridge is its ability to penetrate Kevlar protective vests, making it a popular choice among military and law enforcement personnel. However, it's important to note that sporting variants of the cartridge are classified as not armor-piercing by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

The projectile design of the 5.7×28mm also limits overpenetration and risk of ricochet, making it a safer option for certain applications. And unlike conventional pistol bullets, the lightweight projectile loses much of its kinetic energy after traveling only 400 meters, reducing the risk of collateral damage.

When it comes to design features that enhance the reliability of the firearm the 5.7 will not disappoint.  The 5.7×28mm cartridge by FN Herstal boasts design features that enhance its reliability and functionality. For instance, the cartridge cases are coated with a special polymer material that makes it easier to extract from the PS90 carbine, thanks to the high chamber pressures and lack of case tapering. This polymer coating also ensures proper feeding and functioning of the rounds in magazines, making it an ideal cartridge for both military and civilian applications. These features, combined with the cartridge's other advantages like low recoil, flat trajectory, and reduced risk of over-penetration, make the 5.7×28mm an impressive cartridge that's worth exploring further.

Overall, the 5.7×28mm cartridge is a unique and versatile option for firearms enthusiasts, with its impressive capabilities and design features. It's no wonder why so many more manufacturers have developed firearms chambered in this cartridge in recent years.  

 

5.7x28mm Ammunition Types and Manufacturers: Who makes 5.7 Ammo?

 

Buy 5.7x28mm Ammo Here!

FN 5.7x28mm Ammunition

Image from; The Armory

 

  1. SS90 Prototype Cartridge: The SS90 was an initial experimental round exclusively used in the earliest models of the P90 firearm. It utilized a lightweight 1.5-gram (23-grain) full metal jacket bullet with a polymer core, achieving a muzzle velocity of approximately 850 meters per second (2,800 feet per second). However, the SS90 was discontinued in 1994, and replaced by the heavier and shorter 2.7mm (0.11 inch) SS190 projectile.

 

  1. SS190: The SS190 FMJ was introduced in 1993 as an improvement over the SS90. It provided better performance than its prototype counterpart and was slightly shorter in length, making it more convenient for use in the Five-seven pistol that was also in development at the time. When fired from the P90, the SS190 propels a 2.0-gram (31-grain) bullet with a steel penetrator and an aluminum core at a muzzle velocity of around 715 meters per second (2,350 feet per second). The SS190 is available in plain, black, and black-on-white tip colors and is classified as armor-piercing (AP) handgun ammunition by the ATF, with its sale limited to military and law enforcement customers by FN.

When tested by the Houston Police Department SWAT, the SS190 fired from the P90 into bare ballistic gelatin exhibited penetration depths ranging from 28 to 34 centimeters (11 to 13.5 inches). In a 1999 test by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the SS190 fired from the P90 at a distance of 25 meters (27 yards) showed an average penetration depth of 25 centimeters (9.85 inches) after penetrating level II body armor.  

  1. L191 Tracer Ammunition: The L191, previously known as the SS191, is a tracer cartridge designed to aid in spotting the bullet in low-light conditions. The L191 projectile contains combustible chemicals at its rear, producing a visible light trail that extends up to 200 meters (219 yards). It is available with red and red-on-black tips. Despite having the same performance and trajectory as the SS190, the L191 is classified by the ATF as armor-piercing handgun ammunition, and FN restricts its sale to military and law enforcement customers.
  2. SS192: The SS192 cartridge was taken out of production in late 2004. It featured a 1.8-gram (28-grain) hollow point bullet, complete with a copper jacket and an aluminum core. The bullet had a length of 21.6 millimeters (.85 inches) and an unmarked hollow nose with a 7.6-millimeter (0.3-inch) depth and a 0.8-millimeter (0.03-inch) opening. Despite its impressive specifications, the SS192 was not classified as armor-piercing by the ATF. In fact, testing conducted by FNH USA showed that it failed to penetrate a Level IIIA vest when fired from the Five-seven firearm.
  3. SB193 Subsonic 5.7x28mm: The SB193 cartridge, also previously known as the SS193, features a Sierra Game King FMJBT (FMJ boat tail) projectile weighing 3.6 grams (55 grains). As a subsonic cartridge, it lacks the supersonic "crack" that accompanies faster rounds. Additionally, when paired with a suppressor, the muzzle report is considerably reduced. The reduced muzzle velocity of the SB193 leads to a slight reduction in recoil force of 1.3 kgm/s. The SB193 cartridge is identified by its white tip color and is only sold to military and law enforcement customers by FN.
  4. T194 5.7 Training Round: In 2002, the T194 training round was taken out of production. The T194 can be seen as a precursor to the SS192 or SS195 as it had the same copper-jacketed aluminum core bullet weighing 1.8 g (28 grain) and was propelled at the same muzzle velocity. The tip of the T194 was colored green.
  5. SS195LF: The SS195LF is a type of ammunition that is available for commercial use. It is designed to replace the SS192 round, which was discontinued in late 2004. Like the SS192, the SS195LF features a 1.8-g (28 grain) copper-jacketed aluminum core bullet and has similar ballistics. The SS195LF is distinguished by its unmarked, hollow void at the tip and silver-colored primer. It is classified by the ATF as non-armor piercing and is currently manufactured by FN Herstal in Belgium. Another notable feature of the SS195LF is that it features a lead-free primer.
  6. SS196SR: The SS196SR cartridge was introduced in 2005 but has since been replaced by the SS197SR.  It utilized a 2.6-g (40 grain) Hornady V-Max bullet with a lead core that was capable of reaching a muzzle velocity of approximately 500 m/s (1,650 ft/s) when fired from the Five-seven.The V-Max bullet's polycarbonate tip was designed to expand the bullet upon impact. The SS196 was classified as not armor-piercing by the ATF and was found to be unable to penetrate a Level II vest when fired from the Five-seven in FNH USA testing. It could be recognized by its red polymer tip.
  7. SS197SR: The SS197SR, which is loaded for a higher muzzle velocity than the SS195LF, is now available to civilian shooters in addition to the SS195LF. Both rounds use the same 2.6-g (40 grain) Hornady V-Max projectile with a lead core. The SS197SR features a blue-colored polymer tip instead of the red tip found on the SS196 projectile. Since 2006, Fiocchi has produced the SS197 for FN Herstal under contract, and it is currently distributed in the United States by Federal Cartridge Company.

Federal 5.7x28mm Ammunition

Buy 5.7 Ammo Here!

 

The American Eagle 5.7x28mm ammunition is a popular choice for shooters looking for a budget-friendly option for practice and training with firearms chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge. This ammunition is manufactured by Federal Premium Ammunition, a well-known and respected name in the shooting industry. While it is considered a budget option, it still delivers reliable and consistent performance with a 40-grain full metal jacket bullet. The American Eagle Handgun 5.7x28mm ammunition is an excellent choice for those who want to practice with their 5.7x28mm firearms without breaking the bank. With its affordability and reliability, this ammunition is an excellent option for shooters of all skill levels who want to improve their accuracy and proficiency with their firearms.

Fiocchi 5.7x28mm Ammunition

Buy 5.7 Ammo Here!

  1. Fiocchi Hyperformance Defense 57PT40: 5.7x28mm Hyperformance tipped hollow point cartridge is the ultimate choice for those seeking maximum terminal performance in defensive ammunition. With a 40-grain projectile that features a polymer tip, it ensures proper feeding and delivers a perfect balance of exceptional ballistic and terminal performance. This cartridge also provides reliable performance and deep penetration, making it an ideal option for self-defense situations. Whether you're a law enforcement officer or a civilian who takes personal defense seriously, the 5.7x28mm Hyperformance tipped hollow point cartridge is an excellent choice for reliable and effective performance.

 

  1. Fiocchi Hyperformance Defense 57JF35: The Hyperformance jacketed frangible cartridge is designed with a 35-grain copper core and copper jacketed projectile to deliver consistent ballistic and terminal performance. This lead-free cartridge also features a polymer tip, ensuring proper feeding through all firearms chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge. Its rapid expansion is designed to prevent over-penetration, making it an excellent choice for defense, hunting, and range applications. Whether you're using a handgun or a carbine, this cartridge delivers reliable performance and consistent results every time.

 

  1. Fiocchi Range Dynamics 57SUB62: 62-grain full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet, this subsonic cartridge is an ideal choice for suppressed or unsuppressed shooting and casual plinking. It features a reduced recoil impulse and sound signature, making it a popular option for those who want to minimize noise and recoil while shooting.


 

Speer Gold Dot 5.7x28 Ammo 40 grain Bonded JHP

Buy 5.7 Ammo Here!

Speer Gold Dot is a trusted name in the ammunition industry, and their latest addition to their product line, the 5.7x28mm cartridge, is no exception. This round is designed for use in the FN Five-seveN and PS90, as well as other firearms chambered in this unique caliber.

The Speer Gold Dot 5.7x28 ammo features a 40-grain bonded jacketed hollow point (JHP) bullet, which is designed to deliver excellent expansion and weight retention upon impact. This is achieved through the use of a proprietary bonding process that locks the core and jacket together for maximum strength and controlled expansion.

This bullet-design offers several benefits for the shooter, including superior stopping power and reduced risk of over-penetration. This is particularly important in self-defense situations, where the goal is to neutralize a threat quickly and effectively without putting innocent bystanders at risk.

In addition to its impressive terminal ballistics, the Speer Gold Dot 5.7x28 ammo is also known for its reliability and consistency. Each round is manufactured to exacting standards, using high-quality components and strict quality control processes to ensure consistent performance shot after shot.

When it comes to choosing ammunition for your FN Five-seveN or PS90, the Speer Gold Dot 5.7x28 ammo is a top contender. With its proven performance and reputation for reliability, it is an excellent choice for self-defense, hunting, or any other application where reliable and effective ammunition is required.


 

Handloading 5.7x28mm:  Can you reload 5.7x28mm?

Image from: Elite Ammunition 

Handloading the 5.7x28mm cartridge is an excellent way to get the most out of this unique cartridge. The 5.7x28mm cartridge was first introduced by FN Herstal in the late 1980s as a small-caliber, high-velocity round for use in their P90 and Five-seven pistols. While the round was initially met with some skepticism, it has since gained a loyal following among shooters who appreciate its flat trajectory, low recoil, and exceptional accuracy.

One of the benefits of handloading the 5.7x28mm cartridge is that you can tailor your loads to your specific needs. This means you can experiment with different bullet weights, velocities, and powder charges to find the perfect combination for your firearm. It also means you can save money by reloading your own ammo, as factory ammunition can be expensive and hard to come by.

When handloading the 5.7x28mm cartridge, it's important to use quality components and to follow safe reloading practices. This includes using a reliable reloading manual, wearing appropriate safety gear, and double-checking your measurements and charges. It's also important to pay attention to the overall length of your cartridges, as this can affect their accuracy and reliability.

Overall, handloading the 5.7x28mm cartridge is a rewarding experience that allows you to get the most out of your firearm. Whether you're a competitive shooter or just enjoy hitting the range, handloading can help you achieve better accuracy, consistency, and performance from your 5.7x28mm pistol or rifle.

Pistols Chambered in 5.7x28mm

FN Five-Seven

Buy FN Five-Seven Here!

For over two decades, the original FN Five-seveN® has been a trusted firearm used by allied armies, law enforcement agencies, and civilians worldwide. Now, the iconic design has been updated with an all-flat dark earth frame and slide. The 5.7x28mm cartridge, which is NATO standardized and developed by FN Herstal, offers improved range and accuracy over common pistol cartridges. The cold hammer-forged barrel is chrome-lined, ensuring durability and reliability. The Five-seveN® is known for its pinpoint accuracy and minimal felt recoil, which is further enhanced by the smooth trigger with a predictable break. The new models come in both all-black and all-FDE with 10-round or 20-round magazines included. Two existing California-compliant Five-seveN® models with 10-round magazines remain unchanged. The FN Five-seveN® remains a top choice for those seeking a high-performance firearm with exceptional accuracy and low recoil.

FN Five-Seven MRD

 

Buy FN Five-Seven MRD Here!

In 2022, the original FN Five-seveN is breaking new ground, redefining handgun accuracy standards with its new optics-ready capabilities, enhanced ergonomics, and improved controls. The FN Five-seveN MRD comes equipped with a proprietary optics-mounting system that includes a series of plates that match your optic to the slide, ensuring a quick and seamless setup. The system is compatible with most common optic footprints, offering an unmatched variety of options. The ergonomic frame has new stippling and textures that provide superior grip and control, and the slide, trigger guard, and safety selector have enhanced serrations. The internal hammer and smooth trigger pull, combined with the 4.8-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, make the pistol soft-recoiling and accurate at distance.




 

RUGER 57

 

Buy Ruger 57 Here!

The Ruger 5.7 pistol has been making waves in the firearms market with its impressive features and affordable price point. The pistol is chambered in 5.7x28mm, offering impressive performance and versatility for a variety of shooting needs.

One of the standout features of the Ruger 5.7 is its cost. Despite offering a lot of features that are typically found in more expensive pistols, the Ruger 5.7 comes at a much lower overall cost, making it a great value option for shooters on a budget.

The pistol comes in several different models, some of which feature a red dot sight or fiber optic sights. These models are designed to provide shooters with improved accuracy and precision, making it easier to hit targets at distance.

In addition to its sighting options, the Ruger 5.7 also comes with a variety of other features that make it a great choice for shooters. The ergonomic grip and trigger system offer a comfortable and natural shooting experience, while the 20-round magazine capacity provides plenty of firepower.

The Ruger 5.7 is also built with durability in mind. The pistol features a durable polymer frame and stainless steel slide, which help to resist wear and tear over time. Additionally, the pistol is designed to be easy to disassemble and maintain, allowing for quick and easy cleaning and upkeep.

Overall, the Ruger 5.7 pistol is a great choice for shooters looking for an affordable and versatile option that doesn't skimp on features. With its impressive accuracy, comfortable grip, and durable construction, the Ruger 5.7 is a reliable choice for a variety of shooting needs.

 

Smith and Wesson M&P 5.7

Buy Smith and Wesson M&P 5.7 Here!

The M&P5.7 is a revolutionary pistol with an impressive 22+1 capacity, perfect for those who need a high-capacity firearm for self-defense or range shooting. What sets the M&P5.7 apart is its innovative TEMPO Barrel System. This rotating 5" barrel is specifically designed to enhance the ballistics of the 5.7x28mm round, providing exceptional repeatability and control. The internal hammer-fired, gas-operated, locked-breech system also ensures that the barrel doesn't cam open until the bullet passes the gas port, maximizing accuracy. The pistol features a slim, textured grip and comes with reversible magazine release, ambidextrous slide stop and Manual Thumb Safety. The slide cut for optics, forward slide serrations, and Picatinny-style rail provide versatility and customization options. Additionally, the flat-face trigger offers consistent finger placement, contributing to accurate and repeatable shooting. The M&P5.7 is also equipped with two 22-round magazines and features a 1 in 9" twist barrel, making it a reliable and accurate choice for any shooting situation.

 

CMMG BANSHEE MK4 5.7X28MM

Buy CMMG 5.7 Here!

The CMMG Banshee MK4 in 5.7x28mm is a compact and lightweight firearm perfect for personal defense or as a range toy. The pistol features a 5-inch barrel with a 1:9 twist rate and a threaded muzzle for attaching a suppressor. The receiver is made of billet aluminum, making it both strong and light. The Banshee MK4 also has a Magpul MOE pistol grip and an ambidextrous charging handle. It comes with a 20-round magazine and is compatible with FN Five-seveN magazines. The Banshee MK4 is a well-designed firearm with quality components and reliable performance.

 

CMMG Dissent MK4 5.7x28

Buy CMMG 5.7 Here!

The CMMG Dissent MK4 5.7x28 is a reliable and accurate pistol that has quickly gained popularity among gun enthusiasts. It features a 5-inch barrel with a 1:9 twist rate that can deliver impressive accuracy and ballistics with the 5.7x28mm round. The lower receiver is made of billet 7075-T6 aluminum, while the upper receiver is forged from 7075-T6 aluminum, making it both durable and lightweight. The pistol grip and trigger guard are also made of polymer for added comfort and control. Other notable features include a threaded barrel, M-Lok handguard, and ambidextrous controls. Whether you're using it for self-defense or target shooting, the CMMG Dissent MK4 5.7x28 is a reliable and accurate choice.

 

Diamondback DBX57

Buy DBX57 Here!

The Diamondback DBX57 is a versatile and compact pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm. It features a lightweight polymer frame and a stainless steel slide with front and rear serrations. The DBX57 also boasts a Picatinny rail for easy attachment of accessories, fiber optic front sight, and adjustable rear sight. With a 20+1 capacity, this pistol is perfect for self-defense or range use. The DBX57 is also compatible with FN Five-seveN magazines, providing users with additional magazine options. Its compact size and comfortable grip make it easy to handle, while its advanced features make it a reliable and effective option for shooters of all levels.

 

Kel-Tec P50

Buy Kel-Tec P50 Here!

The Kel-Tec P50 is a unique semi-automatic pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm that has captured the attention of gun enthusiasts and collectors alike. With a 50-round quad-stack magazine, the P50 offers an impressive capacity for a pistol. The bullpup design allows for a compact overall length, while the Picatinny rail on top of the receiver provides mounting options for various optics. The P50 features a unique charging handle located at the rear of the gun, making it easy to manipulate and allowing for quick and easy access to the chamber. The Kel-Tec P50 is a great choice for those looking for a fun and unique shooting experience.

Rifles Chambered In 5.7x28mm

FN PS90

Buy PS90 Here!

The FN PS90 is a compact, lightweight and ergonomic bullpup carbine chambered in 5.7x28mm. The PS90 has a futuristic design and is the civilian version of the FN P90 submachine gun used by many military and law enforcement units around the world. The weapon has a polymer stock with a built-in scope rail, and a top-mounted magazine that holds 50 rounds. Its compact size, high magazine capacity and low recoil make it a popular choice for personal defense and for sport shooting. The PS90 is also known for its accuracy and reliability, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique and reliable firearm.

Masterpiece Arms 5.7x28mm

Buy Masterpiece Arms 5.7 Here!

The Masterpiece Arms 5.7x28mm rifle is a versatile firearm that offers a wide range of applications. It is designed for law enforcement, military, and civilian use, and it is built with a high level of quality and precision. The rifle features a side-folding stock, a 16-inch barrel, and a top-mounted Picatinny rail for easy optics mounting. The MPA 5.7x28mm rifle also includes a fully adjustable trigger, a lightweight aluminum handguard, and a detachable magazine. Overall, this rifle is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and accurate firearm for a variety of purposes.

CMMG Resolute 300 MK4 5.7x28

Buy CMMG Resolute 5.7 Here!

The CMMG Resolute 300 MK4 5.7x28 rifle is a reliable and accurate firearm that offers the benefits of the 5.7x28mm cartridge. With its durable construction and high-capacity magazine, it is a great choice for self-defense, hunting, and target shooting. The rifle features a 16.1-inch barrel with a 1 in 9-inch twist rate, which provides excellent accuracy at longer ranges. The lightweight design and comfortable grip make it easy to handle, while the integrated Picatinny rail allows for the addition of accessories such as optics and lights. The ambidextrous charging handle and safety selector make it easy to operate for both right- and left-handed shooters. Overall, the CMMG Resolute 300 MK4 5.7x28 is a well-built and versatile rifle that is sure to impress.

Excel Arms Accelerator Rifle 5.7x28mm

 

Buy Excel Arms 5.7 Here!

 

The Excel Arms Accelerator Rifle is a unique and versatile semi-automatic rifle available in two different calibers, .22 WMR and 5.7x28mm. Constructed from high strength, corrosion-resistant 17-4 stainless steel, the rifle features a bull barrel with a diameter of .875 inches and a length of 16 inches. The comfortable pistol grip stock is molded of polymer composite for durability. It also includes an aluminum shroud that incorporates a weaver rail to mount a variety of scopes, sights, and optics, along with a standard red dot sight system. The rifle is equipped with a manual safety and firing pin block to ensure safe use, and features a last round bolt hold open feature to alert the shooter of an empty magazine. Made in the USA, the Accelerator Rifle is covered under a lifetime warranty and includes a California DOJ-approved cable lock.

 

Ruger LC Carbine 5.7X28

 

Buy Ruger LC Carbine 5.7 Here!

 

The Ruger LC Carbine is a lightweight and compact rifle that utilizes the same magazines and controls as the Ruger-5.7 pistol. It features a unique bolt-over-barrel design with the magazine in the grip for excellent balance and pointability. The rifle comes with a 16.25" fluted, nitride-treated steel barrel and a 1/2"-28 TPI threaded barrel with a thread protector for muzzle accessory attachment. The reversible folding stock, collapsible sights, and full-length Picatinny rail make it ideal for compact storage and optic mounting. The rifle also includes ambidextrous manual safety, reversible charging handle, ergonomic bolt release, extended magazine release latch, and other safety features to ensure safe and reliable use.


 

FAQs

 

5.7 vs 9mm? Which is better? 

 

The 5.7x28mm and 9mm are both popular rounds in the firearm industry, but they have their differences. 5.7 firearms tend to have a greater capacity and lighter recoil, and can even penetrate armor. However, the 9mm is typically less expensive and has a wider range of ammunition options. When it comes down to it, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and intended use. For self-defense purposes, the 5.7 may be a better choice due to its armor-piercing capabilities, while the 9mm may be a more practical choice for target shooting due to its lower cost and a wider range of ammunition options. Ultimately, both rounds are effective and have their own unique advantages and disadvantages.

 

5.7 vs 9mm? Who wins in ballistic gel testing?

In a ballistic gel test conducted by Ammoman, the 5.7x28mm cartridge performed well, with its fast-moving bullets causing significant damage to the gel block. However, the 9mm cartridge produced a larger wound cavity, due to its heavier bullets and wider diameter. The 5.7x28mm also demonstrated better penetration, particularly against body armor, but the 9mm is generally more widely available and less expensive than the 5.7x28mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two cartridges depends on the user's specific needs and priorities, such as capacity, recoil, and intended use.


 

What is th 5.7 round good for?

The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a popular choice for self-defense and law enforcement due to its high capacity and armor-penetrating capabilities. Its lightweight and low recoil make it a great option for people who are sensitive to recoil or for extended training sessions. The cartridge was specifically designed to defeat body armor, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement personnel who need to stop an assailant quickly. In addition, the high-capacity magazines available for 5.7x28mm firearms provide plenty of firepower, which can be especially useful in high-stress situations.

How powerful is a 5.7 round? How effective is 5.7x28mm?

The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a high-velocity round that is known for its armor-penetrating capabilities. The round is capable of traveling at speeds up to 2,350 feet per second, with a muzzle energy of around 390 foot pounds. This makes it a powerful round that is effective at penetrating armor, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and military applications. Additionally, the light recoil of the 5.7x28mm cartridge makes it a good option for shooters who are sensitive to recoil, while the high-capacity magazines available for many firearms chambered in 5.7x28mm make it a practical choice for self-defense situations. Overall, the 5.7x28mm cartridge is a versatile and effective round that offers many benefits to shooters.

 

Will a 5.7x28mm kill a deer or other large game like bears?

 

It is not recommended to use a 5.7x28mm cartridge for hunting deer or larger game, as it is not powerful enough to make a quick and humane kill. While the round can penetrate armor and has high muzzle velocity, it lacks the necessary power and bullet weight to effectively take down larger animals. Additionally, using a cartridge that is not specifically designed for hunting can lead to unnecessary suffering for the animal. It is important to always use the appropriate ammunition for the intended purpose.


 

Is 5.7mm ammo armor piercing?

Not all 5.7x28mm ammunition is armor-piercing. While some types of 5.7x28mm ammunition, such as the SS190, have armor-piercing capabilities, other types are designed for different purposes such as target shooting or self-defense. It is important to check the specific type of ammunition being used and its intended purpose before purchasing or using it.

 

Are 5.7 rounds illegal / banned?

No, 5.7 rounds are not illegal or banned in the United States. They are commercially available and can be purchased by individuals who meet the legal requirements for purchasing ammunition. However, some states may have specific laws or restrictions regarding the possession and use of 5.7 rounds, so it's important to check with local laws before purchasing or using them. Additionally, certain types of 5.7 ammunition, such as armor-piercing rounds, may be restricted or prohibited under federal law.