A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 5.7x28MM AMMO
The 5.7x28mm cartridge was developed in the late 1980s by FN Herstal to meet NATO’s call for a more effective alternative to 9mm. Designed for high velocity and low recoil, 5.7x28 ammo quickly became a favorite among elite military and law enforcement units for its ability to penetrate soft body armor while maintaining controllability.
With velocities reaching up to 2,800 feet per second, this lightweight, bottlenecked cartridge offers a flat trajectory, low recoil, and excellent accuracy at extended handgun and carbine ranges. Bullet weights generally range from 23 to 40 grains, and are available in various formats including full meta jacket (FMJ), hollow point (HP), and polymer-tipped projectiles.
One key advantage of 5.7 pistol ammo is its compact design, allowing for larger magazine capacities without added bulk or weight. This, combined with reduced recoil, makes for faster follow-up shots and an overall smoother shooting experience—especially in 5.7x28 rifles and modern pistols like the FN Five-seveN and Ruger 5.7.
When compared to traditional handgun cartridges like 9mm, the 5.7x28mm offers higher velocity, flatter trajectory, and a longer effective range. While it doesn’t deliver the terminal energy of full-sized rifle rounds, its performance makes it a compelling choice for personal defense, sport shooting, and varmint control.
Popular factory loads include the FN SS197SR, a 40-grain V-Max polymer-tipped round ideal for precision and expansion, and Federal American Eagle, a reliable and more affordable FMJ load for bulk training and high-volume shooting.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 5.7x28MM AMMO
When selecting 5.7x28 ammo, it’s important to match your load to your firearm and intended use. From range training to personal defense, different bullet types and manufacturers can greatly influence performance.
Purpose: Decide how you plan to use your ammo. For target shooting and plinking, FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) rounds are the most economical and widely available. For self-defense or varmint hunting, consider hollow point (HP) or polymer-tipped bullets like Hornady's V-Max, which offer controlled expansion and increased terminal effectiveness.
Bullet Type: The 5.7x28mm cartridge is available in multiple formats. FMJ (Full metal jacket) rounds are best for training and range sessions, while ballistic tip and (HP) hollow point rounds offer superior energy transfer and expansion, making them ideal for 5.7 defense ammo or small-game hunting.
Manufacturer Reputation: Opt for brands with proven track records. FN Herstal remains the benchmark, with the SS197SR and other high-performance loads. Federal’s American Eagle is a go-to for affordable, high-quality FMJ ammo, while Speer and Ruger 5.7-compatible options continue to grow in popularity for defense and sporting use.
Availability & Cost: As a specialty caliber, 5.7x28 bulk ammo isn’t as readily available as more common handgun cartridges. Prices can be higher, but buying in bulk when in stock helps ensure you stay prepared while keeping cost per round lower.
5.7x28MM AMMO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Can I use 5.7x28mm ammo in any firearm?
- No. 5.7x28mm ammo is only compatible with firearms specifically chambered for it. Popular platforms include the FN Five-seveN pistol, FN PS90, Ruger-5.7, and select 5.7x28 rifles like the Kel-Tec P50 and CMMG Banshee. Never attempt to fire 5.7x28 in a firearm not clearly marked for it.
- What is the effective range of the 5.7x28mm?
- The effective range of 5.7x28mm is up to 200 yards, with optimal performance typically under 150 yards. Its flat trajectory and high velocity make it well-suited for both close-quarters and mid-range engagements when paired with quality firearms and optics.
- Is 5.7x28mm ammo good for home defense?
- Yes, especially when loaded with expanding hollow points or polymer-tipped rounds. The low recoil, high magazine capacity, and potential for reduced over-penetration compared to traditional rifle cartridges make 5.7 defense ammo a practical option for home protection—assuming local laws permit its use.
- How does the recoil of the 5.7x28mm compare to other calibers?
- The 5.7x28mm has significantly less recoil than popular handgun calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP. This allows for faster follow-up shots, improved accuracy, and easier control, especially in compact handguns like the Ruger 5.7 or FN Five-seveN.
- What are the ballistic characteristics of the 5.7x28mm?
- Designed for high velocity and flat shooting, most 5.7x28 loads exceed 2,000 fps. The cartridge’s small, lightweight bullets reduce recoil and wind drift, delivering excellent accuracy at intermediate ranges with a relatively low chance of over-penetration.
- What is the best 5.7x28mm ammo for target shooting?
- For range practice, Federal American Eagle 5.7x28 FMJ is a top choice for affordability and consistency. It offers clean-burning performance and is widely available in bulk 5.7x28 ammo boxes.
- What is the best 5.7 ammo for personal defense?
- Popular self-defense options include FN SS198LF, Speer Gold Dot, and Hornady V-Max loads. These rounds offer reliable expansion and energy transfer, making them suitable for defensive scenarios when legal.
- Which guns use 5.7x28mm ammo?
- Notable firearms include the FN Five-seveN, Ruger-5.7 pistol, PS90 carbine, Kel-Tec P50, and CMMG’s Banshee and Resolute series chambered in 5.7x28mm. These guns capitalize on the cartridge’s lightweight and high-velocity characteristics.
- Is 5.7x28mm a good alternative to 9mm?
- In some cases, yes. 5.7x28 offers higher velocity, less recoil, and greater capacity per magazine. While 9mm has broader availability and greater energy at close range, the 5.7 excels in accuracy, speed, and light recoil, making it a viable choice for defense and sport shooting.
- Can I reload 5.7x28mm ammo?
- Yes, but with caution. Reloading 5.7 ammo is more complex due to small case size, pressure sensitivity, and case coating on some brass. It’s possible, but best reserved for experienced reloaders using trusted data and once-fired brass from reputable manufacturers.
OUR TOP 5.7x28MM AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS
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Use Cases for 5.7x28mm Ammunition
- Plinking
- Target Shooting
- Hunting (small game and varmints)
- Personal Defense
- Competition Shooting
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Popular 5.7x28mm Ammo Brands
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Common 5.7x28mm Ammo Caliber Name Variations
- 5.7x28
- 5.7x28mm
- 5.7x28mm FN
- Five Seven ammo
THE 5.7x28MM AMMO "ROUND UP"
Whether you're drawn to its cutting-edge design or looking for a high-performance round for range use, defense, or small game hunting, 5.7x28mm ammo offers a rare combination of high velocity, low recoil, and versatile functionality. From range-ready FMJ to personal defense and tactical loads, this caliber delivers precision without compromise.
At Target Sports USA, our curated selection of 5.7 ammo for sale includes trusted names like FN, Federal, and Speer—backed by fast shipping, bulk pricing, and expert service. Find the perfect round for your 5.7 pistol or rifle, and experience the full potential of this exceptional cartridge.