FN Herstal P90

FN Herstal P90 submachine gun in 5.7×28mm: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the FN Herstal P90? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.

Library IDGT-1656
ManufacturerFN Herstal
TypeSubmachine Gun
Caliber5.7×28mm
ActionBlowback-operated
Barrel Length263 mm
Country of OriginBelgium
Year of Production1990
Production StatusIn production
Typical UsersMilitary, Law Enforcement
Rating4.5

FN Herstal P90: Technical Specifications

The FN Herstal P90 is a compact personal defense weapon designed for close-quarters combat. It is chambered for the 5.7×28mm cartridge, which offers low recoil and high velocity, allowing for effective penetration against body armor. The P90 features a barrel length of approximately 10.4 inches (264 mm), contributing to its overall compact design.

Weighing around 5.9 lbs (2.67 kg) when unloaded, it is constructed primarily from high-impact polymer and steel, providing durability while keeping weight manageable. The P90 employs a unique bullpup configuration, positioning the action behind the trigger to reduce overall length without sacrificing barrel length.

Notable engineering features include a top-mounted, translucent magazine that holds 50 rounds, enabling sustained fire without frequent reloads. The weapon uses a direct blowback system, enhancing reliability and simplicity. Additionally, it has an integrated Picatinny rail for optics and accessories, making it versatile for various tactical applications.

FN Herstal P90: Performance Characteristics

The FN Herstal P90 is a compact, selective-fire submachine gun known for its distinctive design and performance characteristics.

Accuracy: The P90 features a 10.4-inch barrel and utilizes 5.7x28mm ammunition, providing a flat trajectory and controlled recoil. It has an effective range of approximately 200 meters, with a high degree of precision due to its integrated reflex sight.

Reliability: The P90 is renowned for its reliability, functioning well in adverse conditions. Its bullpup design minimizes the overall length while maintaining a consistent sight picture.

Handling: Weighing around 6.5 pounds, the P90 is lightweight and ergonomic, allowing for easy maneuverability. The ambidextrous controls cater to both left- and right-handed shooters.

Rate of Fire: It has a cyclic rate of fire of around 900 rounds per minute, enabling rapid follow-up shots.

Overall, the P90 is appreciated for its compactness, versatility, and effectiveness in close-quarters combat, making it a preferred choice for military and law enforcement units globally.

FN Herstal P90: Design Features

The FN Herstal P90 is a compact, bullpup submachine gun designed for versatility and ease of use. Its ergonomic design includes a polymer body that ensures a lightweight and durable structure. The ambidextrous controls, including a safety selector and magazine release, cater to both left- and right-handed users.

The P90 features a unique top-mounted magazine that holds 50 rounds of 5.7x28mm ammunition, facilitating a low profile and quick reloads. The integrated reflex sight enhances target acquisition, while the overall design minimizes recoil and maximizes accuracy.

Safety mechanisms include a trigger safety and a manual safety lever, ensuring secure handling. Aesthetic elements are characterized by its futuristic appearance, with smooth lines and a distinctive silhouette. Innovative features include a blowback operating system and a streamlined design that allows for easy maneuverability in close-quarters combat. Overall, the P90 blends functionality with modern design, making it effective and user-friendly.

FN Herstal P90: Historical Context

The FN Herstal P90, a compact personal defense weapon, was developed in the late 1980s to address the needs of military and law enforcement for a lightweight, high-capacity firearm capable of close-quarters combat. Its design began in 1986, with FN Herstal aiming to create a weapon that utilized a unique 5.7x28mm cartridge, allowing for both low recoil and effective armor penetration.

Officially introduced in 1990, the P90 featured a bullpup configuration, innovative top-mounted magazine, and ambidextrous controls, revolutionizing firearm ergonomics. It gained prominence in various military and law enforcement units globally, noted for its use by U.N. peacekeepers and in elite forces.

The P90's design influenced subsequent firearms, particularly in emphasizing compactness and versatility. Its role in counter-terrorism operations and urban warfare highlighted the evolving landscape of combat, showcasing the need for firearms adaptable to modern warfare environments.

FN Herstal P90: User Experience

The FN Herstal P90 is widely praised for its innovative design and user-friendly experience. Comfort is a standout feature; its bullpup configuration allows for a compact profile while maintaining a balanced feel. The ergonomic grip and adjustable stock cater to various shooter preferences, enhancing comfort during prolonged use.

Users frequently highlight the ease of use, noting the ambidextrous controls and intuitive operation, which facilitate quick handling in various situations. The P90’s low recoil and high rate of fire, combined with its 50-round magazine, contribute to an enjoyable shooting experience.

Durability is another strong point, with a robust polymer construction that withstands harsh conditions. However, some users express concerns about the weight when fully loaded and the complexity of reloading in high-pressure scenarios. Additionally, a few have noted that the proprietary ammunition can be costly and less accessible. Overall, the P90 is lauded for its reliability and unique design, making it a favored choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.

FN Herstal P90: Ammunition Information

The FN Herstal P90 is primarily chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge, designed for high velocity and low recoil, making it effective for personal defense and tactical applications. This caliber offers superior armor penetration compared to traditional handgun cartridges, attributed to its lightweight, high-velocity projectiles.

The P90 is compatible with ammunition from various manufacturers, including FN Herstal, Speer, and Fiocchi, among others. The most notable types of ammunition for the P90 include:

  • SS190: A standard military round with armor-piercing capabilities.
  • SS195LF: A lead-free, hollow point round suitable for law enforcement and civilian use.
  • SS197SR: A softer, frangible round designed for training and reduced ricochet risk.

For optimal performance, users often recommend using FN's proprietary ammunition, particularly the SS190 or SS195LF, as these are specifically designed to maximize the P90's ballistic potential and reliability.

FN Herstal P90: Usage Tips and Best Practices

FN Herstal P90 Usage Tips:

  • Shooting Technique:
  • Use a firm grip and maintain a stable shooting stance.
  • Keep your elbows slightly bent to absorb recoil.
  • Aim with both eyes open for better situational awareness.
  • Cleaning & Maintenance:
  • Disassemble the P90 according to the manual. Regularly clean the barrel, bolt assembly, and trigger group.
  • Use a bore brush and patches for the barrel, and a soft cloth for the exterior.
  • Lubricate moving parts lightly with a high-quality gun oil to ensure smooth operation.
  • Magazines:
  • Store magazines fully loaded and rotate them periodically.
  • Avoid overloading to prevent feeding issues.
  • Common Mistakes:
  • Avoid limp-wristing; it can cause malfunctions.
  • Don’t neglect regular maintenance; fouling can lead to jams.
  • Be cautious with the bullpup design; practice should include safe handling during reloads.

By following these tips, you can enhance your shooting experience and maintain your P90 effectively.

Legal Considerations in Colorado

The FN Herstal P90 is a compact bullpup submachine gun primarily used by military and law enforcement. In the U.S., it is classified as a restricted firearm under the National Firearms Act (NFA) if it is fully automatic, requiring a tax stamp for ownership. Civilian versions are semi-automatic and often modified for compliance with state laws.

State regulations vary widely: some states, like California and New York, have stringent restrictions on assault weapons, which may include the P90. Others, like Texas and Arizona, have fewer restrictions on firearms.

Notably, the P90 has been involved in discussions regarding firearms legislation but has not been the subject of high-profile legal cases. Its unique design and capabilities have made it a topic of interest in debates over military-style weapons in civilian hands. Always check local laws for the most current regulations.

FN Herstal P90: Reviews and Ratings

User reviews of the FN Herstal P90 generally highlight its reliability and unique design, with many praising its compact size and lightweight construction, making it ideal for close-quarters situations. Users frequently note its exceptional accuracy, even at longer ranges, and appreciate the low recoil, which aids in follow-up shots.

However, some feedback mentions the high cost of the firearm and its ammunition, which can be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers. Customer service experiences vary; while some users report prompt and helpful responses, others express frustration with delays or lack of support.

Overall, satisfaction levels are high, with many users expressing loyalty to the brand and enthusiasm for the P90's performance. The firearm's innovative features and tactical advantages are commonly celebrated, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.

FN Herstal P90: Appearances in Media

The FN Herstal P90 has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list:

Movies:
1. Resident Evil (2002) - Used by the Umbrella Corporation's security forces.
2. The Last Stand (2013) - Featured prominently in action scenes.
3. The Chronicles of Riddick (2004) - Used by the Necromongers.
4. The Hitman's Bodyguard (2017) - Seen in action sequences.

TV Shows:
1. Stargate SG-1 - Used by the Stargate Command personnel.
2. 24 - Featured in various episodes by counter-terrorism units.
3. NCIS - Occasionally used by agents during operations.
4. The Unit - Used by special operations forces.

Video Games:
1. Counter-Strike Series - The P90 is a popular submachine gun choice.
2. Call of Duty Series - Featured in several titles as a weapon option.
3. Battlefield Series - Appears in multiple games as a weapon.
4. Rainbow Six Siege - Available as a weapon for certain operators.

These are just a few examples, and the P90 has been utilized in many other media forms as well.

FN Herstal P90: Related Models

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