High-velocity pistol cartridge designed to defeat body armor. Chambered in FN Five-seveN pistol and P90 submachine gun. Very low recoil.
Type: Pistol
Introduced: 1990, Belgium
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.224" (5.7 mm)
Case length: 1.138" (28.9 mm)
Overall length: 1.594" (40.5 mm)
Max pressure: 48,500 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Small Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:9
Muzzle velocity: 1900–2350 fps
Muzzle energy: 250–330 ft-lbs
Effective range: 200 yd
Common bullet weights: 27, 31, 40 gr
Primary use: Military, Self Defense, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: 5.7x28 · 5.7x28mm · 5.7mm · Five-seveN
History: Developed by FN Herstal in late 1980s for NATO PDW requirement. Won NATO trials over HK's 4.6x30mm. Designed for P90 submachine gun and Five-seveN pistol. Civilian adoption limited by high cost and armor-piercing reputation, though civilian ammunition is not armor-piercing. Gained popularity after US Secret Service adoption.
Notable firearms: FN P90, FN Five-seveN pistol, FN PS90, Ruger-57
Military use: {"country":"Over 40 nations","years":"1990s-present","conflicts":["Various counter-terrorism operations"]}
Similar cartridges: 4.6x30mm HK, .22 TCM