How Effective Is 5.7x28mm?

Intro to 5.7x28mm and FN PS90 Shooting Impressions

The video focuses on the 5.7x28mm cartridge, demonstrated through an FN PS90. The host fires the PS90 to show how the round behaves in a compact bullpup platform. Recoil is described as very light, making the PS90 easy and enjoyable to shoot. The ergonomics and overall design of the FN PS90 are highlighted as distinctive and well thought out. The segment sets up the broader discussion about why this cartridge and platform were created and how they perform in practical use.

NATO History, 9mm Replacement Goals, and HK 4.6x30mm

FN developed the 5.7x28mm in the late 1980s and early 1990s when NATO was exploring a replacement for the 9x19mm cartridge. The goal was a new round suitable for both pistols and personal defense weapons, with greater range and accuracy than 9mm. FN introduced the 5.7x28mm as a clean-sheet design, while HK responded with the 4.6x30mm. Although the 5.7x28mm ultimately beat the 4.6x30mm in trials, the German delegation and others rejected standardization, so NATO did not officially adopt it. As a result, 9mm has remained the dominant service pistol cartridge.

Armor Penetration, Accuracy, and Ambidextrous PS90 Features

The discussion covers specific 5.7x28mm loads such as the SS190, introduced around 1993. Fired from a PS90 or P90, this load is described as capable of penetrating level IIIA body armor at approximately 200 meters. The cartridge was intended to offer better accuracy and effective range than 9mm in both pistols and PDWs, leading to platforms like the FN Five‑seveN pistol and the P90/PS90. The PS90 is shown as fully ambidextrous, with downward ejection from the bottom of the rifle, a centrally located safety under the trigger, and multiple sighting options including a peep sight and side notches. The top rail allows mounting a red dot optic if desired.

Magazine Design, Capacity, and Cartridge Construction

The FN PS90 uses a distinctive 50‑round magazine that sits horizontally on top of the rifle. The magazine includes a round count indicator and rotates cartridges as they are loaded and fed. Loading is demonstrated by pressing each 5.7x28mm round into the magazine and watching it rotate into position, allowing a high capacity in a compact package. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is described as resembling a scaled‑down 5.56 or .223 in overall form and manufacturing approach. Typical bullet weights range from about 20 grains up to around 40 grains, with velocities around 2,800 feet per second, contributing to its flat trajectory and light recoil.

Modern 5.7x28mm Platforms and AR‑Style Options

The 5.7x28mm remains in service with various users and has recently appeared in more commercial firearms. Beyond the FN Five‑seveN pistol and PS90, Ruger has introduced the Ruger 57 pistol, and Diamondback has released a new 5.7x28mm firearm. PW Arms is mentioned as offering an AR‑15 pattern firearm that uses P90 magazines, with the magazine well functioning as the ejection port. CMMG produces the Banshee in 5.7x28mm, an AR‑style pistol that uses FN Five‑seveN magazines. These developments show the cartridge moving into a wider range of platforms while maintaining compatibility with existing magazine designs.

Effectiveness of 5.7x28mm and Future Adoption

The host characterizes the 5.7x28mm as effective, particularly within about 200 yards, noting its combination of high velocity, low recoil, and the ability of certain loads to penetrate level IIIA body armor at distance. The cartridge’s construction is similar enough to 5.56 that many ammunition manufacturers can adapt existing production lines to make it. A key advantage is the ability to carry many rounds in a small, lightweight package, as shown by the 50‑round PS90 magazine. The segment expresses disappointment that the round has not seen broader adoption but points to the growing number of platforms as a sign of increasing acceptance.

HK SP5 Overview and Binary Trigger Setup

The video briefly shifts to the HK SP5, which is described as a commercial‑market MP5‑style pistol. It is produced by HK on the same tooling and assembly line as the MP5 and comes with two 30‑round magazines marked as made in Germany. This particular SP5 is equipped with a Franklin Armory binary trigger, which fires once on the pull and once on the release of the trigger. An SP Tactical side‑folding brace is installed to provide an additional point of contact on the cheek while keeping the firearm classified as a pistol. The host expresses interest in seeing a similar commercial offering for the MP7, potentially as an “SP7.”

Closing Thoughts on 5.7x28mm and Viewer Feedback

In closing, the host reiterates that the 5.7x28mm is a fast, light‑recoiling cartridge that is enjoyable to shoot and effective at typical engagement distances discussed in the video. The hope is that more manufacturers will continue to chamber firearms in 5.7x28mm, expanding beyond the PS90, FN Five‑seveN, Ruger 57, Diamondback offerings, and CMMG Banshee. Viewers are invited to share their opinions on the effectiveness of the 5.7x28mm cartridge and to comment on the platforms mentioned, including HK designs. The video ends with a reminder about an entry code and directions to the ClassicFirearms.com site for ongoing promotions.