The 5.7x28mm caliber has seen a steady rise in popularity over recent years among civilian shooters. With major manufacturers releasing new firearms chambered for this round, it continues to gain mainstream appeal in the modern sporting rifle market.
This article serves as a comprehensive buyer’s guide for the top guns and ammunition available in 5.7x28mm as we enter 2025. We’ll cover how we selected the best options, provide detailed overviews of leading 5.7x28mm handguns and rifles, recommend top ammo choices, explore the origins and performance of this caliber and offer some final advice to consider before making a purchase.
How We Chose the Best 5.7 Guns
Rather than hands-on testing, our recommendations are based on exhaustive research analyzing feedback from experienced 5.7x28mm shooters. This includes a synthesis of user reviews, expert evaluations and insights shared across gun forums and publications.
While our team has a background spanning military, law enforcement, competitive shooting and firearms retail, this guide relies more heavily on the cumulative wisdom of veteran members within the shooting community. We relied on their extensive range time and observations with various 5.7 platforms to inform our selections.
The criteria we used focuses on real-world functionality versus pure specifications. Critical considerations include ergonomics, control manipulation, balance, accessories and out-of-box usability. Accuracy and reliability are held equally important according to reviewers, with superior guns exhibiting consistency and minimal malfunctions after prolonged firing sessions.
We also weighed reviewer impressions on value, opting for firearms that offer practical enhancements suiting real-world applications at a sensible price point. Recommendations had to balance performance, engineering and price based on the constructive insights of experienced end users.
By aggregating the first-hand accounts of seasoned 5.7x28mm shooters, we aim to provide a pragmatic guide that cuts through specifications to spotlight options delivering reliability and usability.
Best 5.7x28mm Handguns
The 5.7x28mm cartridge was initially designed for handguns and personal defense weapons. It continues to see widespread use in compact firearms that enable easy carrying and rapid deployment. Here are our choices for the best 5.7mm handguns of 2025.
1. FN Five-seveN – Editor’s Handgun Pick
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Action: Semi-Auto / Single Action
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Barrel Length: 4.8in
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Overall Length: 8.2in
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Finish: Black / Flat Dark Earth
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Magazine Capacity: 10rd / 20rd
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Magazine Type: Removable
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Stock Material: Polymer
Features:
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20-round standard capacity
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Cold-hammer forged, chrome-lined barrel
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Ambidextrous safety
Pros:
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Very low recoil
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Flat-shooting trajectory
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High capacity for its size
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Extremely lightweight
Cons:
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Safety lever placement could be better
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More expensive than competitors
The FN Five-seveN pistol stands as an iconic original within the world of 5.7x28mm firearms. Engineered by FN Herstal in Belgium, the Five-seveN was developed in conjunction with the P90 personal defense weapon as its ideal companion sidearm.
The requirements for the Five-seveN were daunting: create a high-capacity, lightweight pistol with dimensions comparable to the venerable 9mm service pistols in widespread use. At the same time, optimize the gun to fully harness the potential of the proprietary 5.7x28mm round that was co-designed for FN’s revolutionary P90 SMG.
FN delivered an innovative solution in the form of the Five-seveN. They crafted a specialized polymer frame, matched with a cold hammer forged chrome-lined steel barrel and integrated ambidextrous controls.
The result is an exceptionally lightweight yet durable pistol weighing a mere 1.6 pounds when fully loaded with 20+1 rounds of 5.7mm ammunition. Its high-strength frame soaks up recoil, while the precise barrel geometry ensures flawless cycling and accuracy that matches the 5.7mm’s flat shooting qualities.
Despite a larger capacity than typical 9mm service pistols, the Five-seveN maintains a compact 8.2-inch overall length for easy carry and deployment.
Early models of the Five-seveN utilized European-style safety levers and magazine releases, which limited widespread acceptance in the United States among more traditional shooters. However FN has since Americanized these components, including reversible mag buttons and an ambidextrous frame-mounted safety inspired by the venerable 1911 pistol.
The latest Five-seveN models also integrate accessory rails for mounting weapon lights and lasers. And the gun now feeds from widely available SR-series magazines initially developed for P90 carbines, ensuring continued availability.
While the Five-seveN costs more than newer competing pistols, it helped guide the development of the 5.7x28mm cartridge itself. Meticulous engineering optimizes the Five-seveN’s geometry to run this bottle-necked rimless round at peak pressures with perfect reliability.
2. Ruger 57 – Best Mid-Tier 5.7 Pistol
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Action: Semi-Auto
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Safety: No
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Weight: 1.53 lbs
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Barrel Length: 4.9in
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Overall Length: 8.7in
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Finish: Black / Custom / Grey / Stainless
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Magazine Capacity: 10+1-Round
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Magazine Type: Removable
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Stock Material: Polymer
Features:
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Easy Trigger Reach
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Reversible Magazine Release Latch
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Steel Mags with Double Stack Capacity
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Utilizes Ruger's Secure Action fire-control system
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Picatinny rail
Pros:
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Low Recoil
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High Capacity (20+1)
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Optics ready and comes with great sights
Cons:
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5.7 cartridge may not be the best for home defense
In the early 2000s, FN Herstal dominated the small arms market catering to the niche 5.7x28mm cartridge with its P90 PDW and Five-seveN pistol. However, the high cost of these firearms limited broader civilian adoption of the round.
Noticing an opportunity, American manufacturer Sturm Ruger & Co. set its sights on producing a more affordable 5.7mm handgun without sacrificing critical capabilities. Their resulting entry, the Ruger 57, brings unmatched value and features to consumers looking to enjoy the one-of-a-kind benefits of the 5.7x28mm caliber.
Unveiled in 2020, the Ruger 57 retains the best aspects of FN’s proven Five-seveN design while trimming production costs. It utilizes a polymer frame with generous texturing for a secure grip.
A stainless steel slide and chrome-plated barrel resist corrosion while enhancing durability. By adopting a striker-fired operating mechanism rather than the Five-seveN’s traditional pre-cocked single-action hammer system, Ruger reduced manufacturing complexity.
The internal components benefit from Ruger’s expertise in crafting robust striker pistols. The trigger features a smooth take-up with a crisp break, lending itself well to precision shooting.
Several shooter-friendly enhancements further separate the Ruger 57 from its Belgian progenitor. These include a reversible magazine latch that swaps sides effortlessly to accommodate left- or right-handed manipulation.
The elongated trigger guard permits high hand placement, while the grip angle aids rapid sight alignment. Instead of European-style iron sights, Ruger equipsthe 57 with high-visibility adjustable rear and fixed front sights.
The slide also comes pre-milled for easy mounting of compact micro red dots. With an integrated Picatinny accessory rail, adding weapon lights poses no issue.
By smartly engineering a 5.7mm pistol that is not bound to FN’s original specifications, Ruger succeeded in offering consumers a reliable 20+1- capacity handgun optimized for American tastes at nearly half the cost of the Five-seveN. For budget-focused buyers unwilling to compromise performance, the Ruger 57 brings elite-level 5.7mm ballistics within financial reach.
3. PSA 5.7 Rock – Best Budget 5.7
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Action: Delayed Blowback Striker-fired
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Safety: Trigger & Striker
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Weight: 25 oz
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Barrel Length: 4.7"
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Frame: Polymer
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Magazine Capacity: 23+1
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Magazine Type: 23rd Steel 5.7x28mm
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Stock Material: 416 Stainless steel slide; QPQ Coating
Features:
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23+1 capacity
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QPQ (quench polish quench) coating
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Fluted barrel
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Great soft case
Pros:
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High capacity
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Minimal recoil
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Optics-ready version available
Cons:
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Loud
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Expensive ammunition
Palmetto State Armory built its reputation by delivering quality firearms with exceptional value. ItsPSA 5.7 Rock pistol stays true to form, bringing robust 5.7x28mm performance to budget-minded shoppers.
At the core of the 5.7 Rock is a proven delayed blowback operating system, which PSA pairs with an ergonomic polymer frame optimized for control and comfort. The result is a smooth-shooting platform with mild perceived recoil, despite the high pressures associated with the 5.7mm cartridge.
This slick shooter weighs just 25 ounces unloaded for easy carry, yet offers an impressive 23+1 round capacity thanks to the double stack steel magazines. The fluted 416 stainless steel slide features a durable QPQ coating to resist corrosion and fouling, even under heavy use.
While loud like most 5.7mm firearms, the 5.7 Rock tames muzzle rise and quickens follow-up shots. The undercut trigger guard promotes a high grip, while palm swells and textured backstraps enhance purchase. Enlarged controls, including a reversible magazine release, simplify manipulation. The optics-ready slide comes with high visibility sights to aid precision.
Despite the diminutive size, most users find the 5.7 Rock comfortable to shoot, especially when using proper hand placement. The minimal dimensions pair well with the reduced felt recoil of the 5.7mm cartridge, keeping the pistol flat shooting and quick handling. While the ammo has limited availability and is costly, the PSA 5.7 Rock itself is a steal for the performance.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 – Most Reliable
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Action: Semi-auto, internal hammer
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Capacity: 22+1
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Length: 8.5"
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Barrel length: 5"
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Width: 1.1"
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Height: 5.25"
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Weight: 26.7 oz.
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Comes with: Plastic, lockable case, two 22-round magazines, magazine loader, owner’s manual, lock
Features:
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Threaded barrel
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Optics ready
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TEMPOTM barrel system
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22-round magazines
Pros:
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Good trigger
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High capacity
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Light recoil
Cons:
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Mag loader required
Smith & Wesson dominates the law enforcement and civilian self-defense markets with their Military & Police designated M&P series of handguns. These pistols boast proven reliability along with features tailored for personal protection applications. With the introduction of the M&P 5.7 model, Smith brings the formidable advantages of the 5.7x28mm cartridge to their trusted M&P platform.
The M&P 5.7 retains the familiar ergonomics shooters expect from the M&P family, including an 18-degree grip angle and generous texturing on the frame. The one-piece polymer grip frame incorporates interchangeable palm swell inserts to fine-tune comfort and fit. Slightly recessed levers prevent accidental activation of the slide release and magazine ejection buttons.
Smith & Wesson pairs this adaptive grip module with a 5-inch barrel machined from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. The barrel utilizes an innovative TEMPO proprietary rifling profile for reduced friction and longer life. It also comes factory-threaded for suppressor use. The optics-ready slide features suppressor-height sights with bright green photoluminescent dots surrounding tritium vials for excellent visibility.
Within its svelte frame, the M&P 5.7 fits an impressive 22+1 rounds of 5.7mm ammunition. This gives the pistol nearly triple the capacity of common 9mm duty handguns. Owing to the M&P pedigree focused on reliability under adverse conditions, the M&P 5.7 cycles this high volume of rounds without hesitation. It delivers elite 5.7mm ballistics to demanding users expecting flawless performance when lives are on the line.
Best 5.7x28mm PDW Platforms
While 5.7x28mm handguns reign supreme for concealed carry applications, rifle platforms unlock the full long-range ballistic potential of this high-velocity round. Here are our picks for top 5.7 rifles and carbines to consider for personal defense, home security or sport shooting.
1. FN P90 and PS90 – Best OG 5.7 Option
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Action: Semi-Auto
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Weight: 6.28 lbs
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Barrel Length: 16in
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Overall Length: 26.2in
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Finish: Black
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Magazine Capacity: 30rd / 50rd
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Magazine Type: Removable
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Stock Material: Synthetic
Features:
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50-round capacity
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Fully ambidextrous controls and ejection
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Light recoiling cartridge
Pros:
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50-round capacity
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Compact package
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Low recoil
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Fully Ambidextrous
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Excellent ballistics
Cons:
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Mediocre trigger
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Factory optics position too high
The FN P90 undoubtedly stands as one of the most radical personal defense weapons ever devised. Born in the late Cold War era, the P90 took shape when NATO solicited designs to replace 9x19mm submachine guns with something revolutionary. Requirements included a compact size for vehicle crews, armor penetration out to 200 meters, and large magazine capacity.
Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal pursued a clean sheet design centered around Its in-development 5.7x28mm proprietary cartridge and polymer construction. The result was the landmark P90 PDW introduced in 1990, alongside the Five-SeveN pistol.
FN adopted a unique bullpup layout for the P90 platform, placing the box magazine behind the pistol grip to minimize overall length. Despite dimensions similar to an arm-length file folder, the P90 boasted a 10.4-inch barrel for optimizing 5.7mm ballistics. The magazine itself was transparent, holding a staggering 50 rounds in a staggered double-stack design. The empty weight tipped the scales at a mere 5.7 pounds.
Further departing from tradition, FN engineered the P90 with an integrated trigger safety and fully ambidextrous controls. This enabled left- or right-handed activation of the charging handle, magazine release, bolt stop, and selector switch. A smooth in-line stock facilitated rapid target acquisition, unmatched by conventional submachine guns. The sum of these advances yielded a weapon almost alien in appearance while remaining intuitively operable under pressure.
Today, the semi-automatic 16-inch barreled PS90 replicates the select-fire P90’s capabilities for civilians. Legal ownership preserves signature features like the 50-round magazine and lightweight frame. The PS90’s highly modular, railed forend also permits adding optics, lights and other accessories. While not as endlessly configurable as an AR platform, the PS90 guarantees an ultra-compact and hard-hitting 5.7mm PCC experience like no other.
2. CMMG Banshee MK57 – Best 5.7 AR
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Barrel Length: 8"
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Overall Length: 23.70"
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Capacity: 30+1
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Twist: 1:7"
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Handguards: M-LOK
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Trigger: Zeroed Drop-In Single Stage
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Weight: 5.10lbs
Features:
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Threaded barrel
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Picatinny rail receiver
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Zeroed Drop-In Single Stage Trigger
Pros:
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Lightweight design
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Extremely fun to shoot
Cons:
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Pricey
AR loyalists, unwilling to abandon Eugene Stoner’s time-tested design, have a 5.7mm option courtesy of CMMG’s Banshee MK4 carbine. This pistol-caliber AR platform retains familiar ergonomics and handling, while harnessing the low recoil and extended range of the 5.7x28mm cartridge. Weighing just over 5 pounds, the Banshee MK4 melds lightweight maneuverability with the customization potential AR enthusiasts expect.
The MK4 variant utilizes an 8-inch medium taper barrel, for stabilizing the swift 5.7mm projectile. A tunable single-stage drop-in trigger allows users to adjust the pull weight between 3-5 pounds for enhanced precision. The forgiving straight-line stock comb enables fast target acquisition, while the textured pistol grip and M-LOK handguard promote weapon retention. A 30+1 capacity with standard Five-seveN magazines ensures ample firepower on tap.
CMMG engineers the MK4 upper receiver to accept all mil-spec AR-15 lower components for maximum flexibility. This design allows swapping grips, triggers, safeties, mag releases and stocks to suit specific user preferences.
The integrated Picatinny rail also simplifies fitting compact optics and electronic sights to take advantage of the 5.7mm’s flat trajectory. For those seeking CQB-ready performance without abandoning the AR platform, CMMG’s Banshee MK4 warrants strong consideration.
3. Keltec P50 – Most Unique Looking
Specs:
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Caliber: 5.7x28mm
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Barrel Length: 9.6"
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Overall Length: 15"
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Weight: 3.2lbs unloaded
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Capacity: 50
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Trigger Pull: 5lbs
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Barrel Threads: 1/2-28 TPI
Features:
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50 round double stack mags
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Picatinny-style rails and QD mounts
Pros:
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Comes with two 50 round mags
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Super fun to shoot
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Ultra compact
Cons:
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Can be hard to find at times
The Florida-based innovators at Keltec let their design chops run wild when developing the P50 pistol. Built to harness the efficiency of the narrow 5.7mm cartridge, the P50 incorporates several standout features that set it apart in the handgun world. It manages to tame the low-recoiling round in a compact yet high-capacity platform, ready for backcountry carry.
Keltec skips the rifled barrel altogether, utilizing a series of concentric rings within the bore to stabilize bullets. This novel approach saves weight and allows for an ultra-short 9.6-inch barrel. The frames themselves are built from heat-resistant glass-reinforced polymer capable of surviving continuous strings of fire. Despite a loaded weight of only 3.2 pounds, the P50 shrugs off real-world abuse.
The P50 introduces adjustable grip angle technology, normally reserved for competitive race pistols. Users can fine-tune the angle from neutral to 22 degrees for enhanced control.
Keltec also innovates with a unique top-loading magazine design that aids rapid reloads. The translucent, double-stack magazines hold an impressive 50 rounds of 5.7 ammunition. Integrated MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails enable adding compact optics, lights, and lasers as well.
While unconventional in appearance, Keltec’s P50 morphs the 5.7mm round into its ultimate evolution as an ultra-compact survival pistol. Its minimal dimensions and generous capacity excel for wilderness carry. The P50’s resilient construction can endure exposure to the elements while delivering reliable functionality. With adaptable ergonomics and accessory rails, it promises versatile performance, from the trail to the range.
Best 5.7x28mm Ammo
Choosing the right ammo is just as important as selecting the right firearm. Here are our top 5.7x28mm ammo recommendations for personal defense and practice.
1. Speer Gold Dot
Speer Gold Dot 5.7x28mm ammunition is engineered for optimal terminal performance and consistent expansion in short barrels. It carries an excellent reputation with law enforcement agencies for its stopping power and barrier penetration capabilities.
Key Features: Reliable feeding, controlled expansion and penetration, superior performance from compact firearms.
Use Case: Strongly recommended for personal defense and concealed carry purposes thanks to its real-world track record.
2. Federal American Eagle
Federal American Eagle 5.7x28mm provides affordable range and plinking ammo without sacrificing much consistency or reliability compared to premium rounds. It functions well for routine practice.
Key Features: Accurate enough for target shooting, similar velocity and feeding to personal defense ammo.
Use Case: Ideal for high-volume range sessions and training where budget is a concern. Matches the performance of duty ammo.
History of the 5.7x28mm Round
Development and Purpose
The origin of the 5.7x28mm cartridge traces back to the late 1980s. NATO put forward a request for a new pistol and submachine gun round to replace the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge used by most Western militaries.
Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal took on this challenge. Its objective was to create a round with superior range, accuracy, and terminal performance compared to the 9mm NATO round. The new cartridge also needed to reliably penetrate modern body armor at extended distances.
In 1990, FN completed work on the 5.7x28mm cartridge. It was designed specifically for their new P90 personal defense weapon platform. The original 5.7mm SS90 round achieved a muzzle velocity of over 2,800 ft/s from the P90’s 10.4-inch barrel. Against soft body armor, it could penetrate Level IIIA protection out to 200 meters.
After further development, FN introduced the improved SS190 round, which it fired a heavier projectile at 2,350 ft/s from the P90 and also reliably fed from a pistol. This allowed FN to produce a companion sidearm, later designated the Five-seveN.
The company submitted the integrated system, consisting of the P90, Five-seveN handgun and 5.7x28mm SS190 ammunition, to NATO for military trials and potential adoption. However, competing entries prevented it from becoming standardized across all NATO forces at the time.
Adoption
Despite not attaining NATO-wide authorization, the effectiveness of the 5.7x28mm system led to its widespread adoption among military and law enforcement agencies globally.
The round rapidly gained esteem for its terminal effects from small, lightweight platforms. Its ability to defeat body armor also appealed to counter-terrorism and special forces units. As more nations and agencies acquired the FN P90 and Five-seveN firearms, the 5.7x28mm cartridge expanded in usage and aftermarket support.
Around 2010, the 5.7x28mm began emerging in the civilian shooting world. Firearms manufacturers recognized the round’s potential for self-defense and sporting applications. The availability of carbines like the PS90 and smaller concealed carry pistols chambered in 5.7x28mm furthered its popularity in the commercial market. What originated as an armor-piercing submachine gun cartridge developed an impressive following among civilian shooters drawn to its unique set of advantages.
5.7x28mm Performance & Why You Want It
The intended purpose behind developing the 5.7x28mm cartridge was achieving superior ballistic performance compared to the 9x19mm NATO round. The 5.7mm design lives up to these expectations through several favorable characteristics:
Lower Recoil – Despite higher pressures, the 5.7mm generates roughly half the felt recoil of a 9mm load. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and faster target reacquisition. Muzzle rise is more easily controlled as well.
Higher Muzzle Velocity – The smaller caliber and narrower cartridge case enable greater case capacity for the same overall size as a 9mm Luger round. This shows in the 150 to 300 ft/s higher velocity attained by 5.7mm loads.
Flatter Trajectory – Greater velocity translates to an exceptionally flat trajectory curve out to 100 yards, making the 5.7mm more forgiving for accuracy at varying distances.
Superior Terminal Ballistics – Its lightweight projectile tumbles rapidly upon impact, yielding significant wound channels and vital tissue disruption.
For defensive and tactical purposes, the 5.7x28mm provides shooters with advantages in shot placement, target visibility, recoil mitigation and terminal effects. The round’s high velocity and accuracy also appeal to hunting and sport shooting enthusiasts.
The 5.7mm cartridge effectively balances rifle-like ballistic potential with firing from compact, concealable platforms. As more becomes understood about its capabilities, this innovative caliber will continue garnering interest across the shooting community.
Final Thoughts
The 5.7x28mm endured a rocky start, hampered by misconceptions and politics early on. Despite not attaining NATO-wide adoption, the cartridge and firearms designed for it demonstrated enough effectiveness to garner a global following in military, law enforcement, and civilian sectors over time.
What sets the 5.7x28mm apart is its ability to reach ballistic performance levels comparable to the 5.56x45mm rifle round from small concealed carry weapons. This combination of terminal effects, accuracy, and shootability drives its appeal for personal defense roles. At the same time, competitive and recreational shooters appreciate the flat shooting nature and low recoil which enable rapid, accurate follow-up shots on target.
While the main drawbacks of expensive ammunition and limited firearm options persist, continued manufacturing support has mitigated these issues today. The 5.7x28mm is experiencing a renaissance among a receptive shooting community ready to embrace its advantages.
FAQs
What is the best use case scenario for a 5.7x28mm firearm?
The 5.7x28mm shines for personal defense and concealed carry purposes. The ability to carry higher capacities in compact packages while still achieving rifle-like velocity and energy on target makes it an excellent self-defense caliber.
How does the recoil of 5.7x28mm compare to 9mm?
The 5.7mm produces approximately half the felt recoil of an equivalently sized 9mm firearm. This allows for faster follow-up shots and quicker target reacquisition.
What is the maximum effective range of 5.7x28mm ammunition?
The maximum effective range is generally considered to be about 100 yards. The lightweight projectile is still moving at high velocity out to 100 yards for acceptable accuracy but beyond this distance, it becomes less stable and consistent.
Does the 5.7x28mm offer good barrier penetration capability?
Yes, the 5.7mm's high velocity and small caliber projectile give it excellent barrier penetration potential. It can reliably penetrate soft body armor at 100 yards that would stop standard pistol rounds.
Is the 5.7x28mm suitable for hunting applications?
Within its effective range envelope, the 5.7mm can take small varmint game like prairie dogs effectively. However it does not provide enough energy for ethical shots on deer-sized game.
What is the best ammunition choice for practice and training with a 5.7x28mm firearm?
For high-volume shooting sessions, the Federal American Eagle 5.7x28mm cartridge provides good ballistics consistency at an affordable price point for routine practice.
Should I rely on a 5.7mm firearm as my primary home defense weapon?
While the terminal effects are impressive for its size, the 5.7mm round lacks the stopping power of larger calibers that would be better suited as a primary home defense option. It can serve as a supplemental capacity option.