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5.7x28 Ammunition Overview
The 5.7x28mm cartridge was developed by FN Herstal in the late 1980s for military and law enforcement. It emphasizes high velocity and low recoil as its core design traits. Today, 5.7x28 ammo maintains a niche role in specialized pistols and carbines, prized for its unique ballistics.
Why Choose 5.7x28 Ammo?
- Low recoil enables rapid follow-up shots
- High velocity aids penetration of body armor
- Lightweight rounds allow more carry capacity
- Specialized projectile options available
- Compatible with FN Five-seveN and P90
Key Variants
5.7x28 SS190
Standard military ball round designed for barrier penetration and reliable feeding.
5.7x28 SS197SR
Sporting round optimized for accuracy and reduced barrel wear in civilian use.
5.7x28 SS195LF
Lead-free variant favoring environmental compliance without performance loss.
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | 5.7x28 Ammo | 9mm Luger | .40 S&W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical MSRP (per 50 rounds) | $35-$50 | $15-$25 | $20-$35 |
| Velocity (fps) | 1,650–2,350 | 950–1,200 | 950–1,200 |
| Energy (ft-lb) | 300–400 | 350–450 | 400–550 |
| Penetration/Expansion | Designed for armor penetration | Good expansion, moderate penetration | High expansion, less penetration |
| Notable Pro | Light recoil, high velocity | Wide availability, low cost | Stopping power |
| Notable Con | Limited firearm compatibility | More recoil than 5.7x28 | Heavy recoil |
Best Use Cases
- Personal self-defense in compatible pistols
- Law enforcement in specialized roles
- Sport shooting and plinking
- Range training with low recoil
- Collectors seeking unique calibers
FAQs
Can I use 5.7x28 ammo in any pistol?
No, 5.7x28 ammo requires compatible firearms like the FN Five-seveN or Ruger-57. Standard pistols do not support this cartridge.
What is the effective range of 5.7x28 ammo?
Effective range is around 50 to 100 yards, benefiting from its high velocity and flat trajectory.
How does 5.7x28 ammo compare to 9mm?
5.7x28 has higher velocity and lower recoil but is less common and more expensive than 9mm.
