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.
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.