Reviews Best 5.7x28mm Pistols [Buyer’s Guide] Megan Kriss August 25, 2023 2 Comments, Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More In the market for a new firearm that packs a punch? Well, look no further because we've got an exciting topic to dive into today: the best 5.7×28 guns. If you're not already familiar with this caliber, let me tell you: it's a powerhouse. We're talking about firearms that deliver both precision and power, perfect for a wide range of applications, from personal defense to competitive shooting. So, whether you're a seasoned shooter looking to expand your collection or a newbie eager to get your hands on a top-notch firearm, this blog post is your ultimate guide. Now let’s get to it.WHY 5.7x28MM?The 5.7x28mm cartridge is an interesting and specialized round that has some unique benefits, making it a popular choice for certain shooters. It was developed by FN Herstal for military and law enforcement use but has gained popularity among civilian shooters as well. So, why might someone choose this caliber?Well, one major advantage is its armor-penetrating capability. The 5.7x28mm round can actually penetrate body armor due to its high velocity and specialized design. That's a pretty big deal for military, law enforcement, and personal defense situations where you might encounter armored targets. However, how well it penetrates is up for debate. Some internet testing has shown that non-AP 5.7x28mm is more effective than others, so choose your ammo wisely.Another great thing about this caliber is the reduced recoil. Compared to larger calibers, 5.7x28mm has almost zero recoil, making it easier to handle and maintain accuracy. This is especially useful for rapid-fire or follow-up shots, and it's a big plus for shooters of all skill levels.Let's not forget the high-capacity magazines that come with firearms chambered in 5.7x28mm. They typically hold 20 to 50 rounds, thanks to the compact size of the cartridge. Having more rounds available without sacrificing the size and weight of the firearm can be a huge advantage, especially for personal defense or law enforcement scenarios.(left to right) AAC 5.7x28mm, 9mm FMJ, and 10mm FMJPlus, the ammo is simply a lot lighter than most other defensive rounds. Running roughly half the weight of 9mm, 5.7x28mm makes for a good option when weight is critical – such as long trek backpacking, biking, or runners. In terms of performance, 5.7x28mm offers good accuracy and an extended range. It has a relatively flat trajectory, thanks to its high velocity and aerodynamic design, allowing you to engage targets accurately even at longer distances. So whether you're in a close-range or extended-range situation, this caliber has got you covered.Of course, it's important to consider factors like ammunition availability, cost, and the specific needs of your situation before making a decision. But if you're looking for armor-piercing capability, reduced recoil, high capacity, accuracy, and portability, 5.7x28mm might just be the right choice for you.BEST 5.7x28MM GUNSPSA Rock 5.7The PSA Rock 5.7 is a pistol that deserves some attention. It offers a more budget-friendly option for those looking to get into the 5.7x28mm world without breaking the bank. With its sleek design and reliable performance, the Rock 5.7 delivers on both aesthetics and functionality. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it gets the job done and allows you to experience the power of the 5.7x28mm cartridge without emptying your wallet. If you’re looking for more features, the Rock 5.7 has models for that, too. From optics to threaded barrels to packages that come with 10 magazines, PSA has something for everyone. One (very minor) downside is that PSA magazines are semi-special. The upside is that they hold 23 rounds and are compatible with the Ruger-5.7. Downside is that Ruger 5.7 magazines are not compatible with the PSA Rock 5.7. Overall that is a net win.Ruger-5.7Ruger is one of my absolute favorite brands, and I couldn’t leave them out. The Ruger 5.7 offers a more affordable alternative to some of the higher-end models while still providing reliable performance. With its ergonomic design, ambidextrous controls, and crisp trigger, the Ruger-5.7 is a joy to shoot. With irons this tall on the first production guns, we have to believe factory threaded barrels aren’t too far behind. Which is a good thing, as the 5.7 round is loud.It also features a 20-round magazine capacity and adjustable sights, allowing for customization and adaptability to different shooting scenarios. Ruger has once again proven that they can deliver a quality firearm at a competitive price point, making the Ruger-5.7 an attractive choice for shooters.FN MRD Five-seveNAh, the FN MRD Five-seveN, the younger sibling of the OG Five-seveN. Along with the FN P90, the original Five-seveN was one of the firearms for which 5.7x28mm was designed, and the MRD version carries on that legacy.FN Herstal has a reputation for producing top-of-the-line firearms, and the MRD Five-seveN is no exception. This pistol retains the iconic design and features that made the original Five-seveN so popular, but with some welcomed upgrades. The MRD stands for “Micro Red Dot,” indicating the inclusion of an integrated optic mounting system. This allows for easy installation of red dot sights, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition. With its superb ergonomics, excellent build quality, and renowned reliability, the FN MRD Five-seveN is a true performer that lives up to the legacy of its predecessor.That being said, it’s debatable if you actually get more performance out of a more expensive package. Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7Smith and Wesson, a renowned firearms manufacturer and another personal favorite of mine, has joined the 5.7x28mm party with their M&P 5.7 pistol. With its polymer frame, comfortable grip, and intuitive controls, the M&P 5.7 offers a user-friendly shooting experience. The pistol features a 20-round magazine capacity and a crisp trigger pull, ensuring accurate and consistent shots. While it may not have the same level of aftermarket support as some other models, the Smith and Wesson M&P 5.7 still delivers on reliability and performance, making it a solid choice for shooters looking to dive into the world of 5.7x28mm. LOOSE ROUNDSAnd there you have it, folks! We've reached the end of our exciting journey through the world of the best 5.7×28 guns. We've explored some fantastic options that showcase the power, versatility, and precision this caliber has to offer. Whether you're leaning towards a sleek and reliable pistol like the FN Five-seveN or craving the futuristic design of the FN P90 submachine gun, there's a firearm out there that will match your shooting style and needs.Remember, choosing the right firearm is a personal decision. Take into account factors such as intended use, ergonomics, ammunition availability, and your own shooting preferences. And, of course, always prioritize safety and responsible firearm ownership.We hope this blog post has shed some light on the top 5.7×28 guns and helped you narrow down your options. Whether you're a competitive shooter, a tactical enthusiast, or simply a firearms aficionado, these guns are bound to give you an exhilarating shooting experience.So, what are you waiting for? Get out there, hit the range, and put your favorite 5.7×28 gun to the test. Feel the thrill of precision shooting, enjoy the benefits of the 5.7x28mm caliber, and remember to always aim true. Now let us know about your favorite 5.7x28mm guns in the comments!Explore RECOILweb:Remington R51 Review: It's Second Coming is Just Better than the FirstPreview - AR-15 Top 25 Questions AnsweredRECOIL Issue #40Advanced Armament Company Ranger 5 & Ranger 7: Old Dog With New Tricks NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. 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Is there something wrong with the KelTech 50rd pistol. I know it’s unconventional, but unless it has unforgivable flaws, it certainly should have been on this really short list.