Five-seveN

Five-seveN pistol in 5.7x28mm: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the Five-seveN? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.

Library IDGT-447
ManufacturerFN Herstal
TypePistol
Caliber5.7x28mm
ActionSemi-automatic
Barrel Length4.8 inches (122 mm)
Country of OriginBelgium
Year of Production1998
Production StatusIn production
Typical UsersMilitary, Law Enforcement, Civilians
Rating4.5

Five-seveN: Technical Specifications

The FN Five-seveN is a semi-automatic pistol chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge, designed for performance and versatility. Key specifications include:

  • Caliber: 5.7x28mm
  • Barrel Length: Approximately 4.8 inches (122 mm)
  • Weight: About 1.5 lbs (700 g) unloaded
  • Overall Length: 8.2 inches (208 mm)
  • Material: Polymer frame with a steel slide, providing durability and reduced weight.

Unique Features:
- High Capacity: Standard magazine capacity is 20 rounds, with options for 10 or 30 rounds.
- Low Recoil: The 5.7mm cartridge produces less recoil, enhancing accuracy and follow-up shot speed.
- Ambidextrous Controls: Includes ambidextrous safety and magazine release.
- Picatinny Rail: Allows for the attachment of accessories like lights and lasers.

The Five-seveN is praised for its ergonomic design, low weight, and ability to penetrate soft body armor, making it a favored choice among military and law enforcement users.

Five-seveN: Performance Characteristics

The FN Five-seveN is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in the 5.7x28mm caliber, renowned for its unique performance characteristics.

Accuracy: The Five-seveN features a 4.8-inch barrel, allowing for impressive accuracy, typically maintaining a grouping of 2-3 inches at 25 yards. The low recoil of the 5.7x28mm cartridge enhances precision during rapid fire.

Reliability: The firearm is known for its robust construction and reliability, functioning effectively with various ammunition types, including standard and armor-piercing rounds. Its delayed blowback operation contributes to consistent performance.

Handling: Weighing around 1.5 pounds, the Five-seveN is lightweight and well-balanced, promoting ease of handling. The ergonomic grip and low bore axis reduce muzzle rise, improving follow-up shots.

Rate of Fire: As a semi-automatic, the Five-seveN offers a high rate of fire limited only by the shooter’s speed, with a magazine capacity of 10 to 30 rounds, facilitating sustained fire.

Overall, the FN Five-seveN excels in accuracy, reliability, and handling, making i

Five-seveN: Design Features

The Five-seveN 5.7x28mm is a semi-automatic pistol known for its unique design and advanced features. Ergonomically, it has a comfortable grip with textured surfaces for enhanced control, and an ambidextrous magazine release for accessibility. The polymer frame reduces weight, making it easy to handle.

Safety mechanisms include a manual safety, a trigger safety, and a drop safety, ensuring reliable operation without accidental discharges. The slide features forward and rear serrations for easy manipulation.

Aesthetically, the Five-seveN boasts a modern, sleek profile with a distinctive, angular design. It often comes in various colors and finishes, appealing to diverse tastes.

Innovative features include its high-capacity magazine, typically holding 20 rounds, and the use of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, which offers low recoil and high velocity, suitable for both personal defense and law enforcement applications. The integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy attachment of accessories like lights and lasers.

Five-seveN: Historical Context

The Five-seveN pistol, chambered in 5.7x28mm, was developed by FN Herstal in the late 1980s to complement the P90 personal defense weapon. The cartridge was designed to penetrate body armor, offering a lightweight, high-velocity option for military and law enforcement. The Five-seveN was officially introduced in 1998, featuring a polymer frame and a 20-round magazine, emphasizing ergonomics and low recoil.

Key milestones include its adoption by various military and police forces, particularly in NATO countries. The Five-seveN gained notoriety during incidents like the 2012 Aurora, Colorado shooting, raising debates about its role in civilian markets.

The design influenced modern firearm development, particularly in the use of polymer materials and high-capacity magazines. Its unique cartridge has inspired discussions on armament standards and personal defense weaponry, marking a significant evolution in firearms technology.

Five-seveN: User Experience

The Five-seveN 5.7x28mm is praised for its ergonomic design, providing a comfortable grip that accommodates a variety of hand sizes. Users often highlight its lightweight construction, making it easy to handle and carry for extended periods. The trigger pull is generally described as smooth, enhancing accuracy and overall shooting experience.

In terms of ease of use, the Five-seveN features intuitive controls and a straightforward reloading process, which appeals to both novice and experienced shooters. Its low recoil allows for quick follow-up shots, making it suitable for tactical applications.

Durability is another strong point; the polymer frame is resistant to wear, and the firearm is built to withstand rigorous use. However, some users report issues with magazine reliability and occasional feeding problems, especially with certain types of ammunition. Overall, the Five-seveN garners positive feedback for its innovative design and performance, though some users wish for improvements in magazine consistency.

Five-seveN: Ammunition Information

The Five-seveN firearm operates using the 5.7x28mm cartridge, a unique round developed by FN Herstal. This caliber is known for its high velocity, low recoil, and armor-piercing capabilities. The standard bullet weight is typically around 23 grains for the SS190 military round, while civilian options like the FN 5.7mm and other brands offer projectiles ranging from 27 to 40 grains.

The 5.7x28mm is compatible with various brands such as FN Herstal, Fiocchi, and Speer, providing users with a range of performance characteristics. Special ammunition types include the SS190 (military) and the V-Max for hunting, both designed for optimal performance, including expansion and penetration. Additionally, the 5.7x28mm is noted for its ability to defeat soft body armor, making it popular in both law enforcement and civilian markets. For best results, shooters are advised to use factory-loaded ammunition that matches the firearm’s specifications for reliability and accuracy.

Five-seveN: Usage Tips and Best Practices

Five-seveN 5.7x28mm Usage Tips:

  • Grip and Stance: Use a firm grip with your dominant hand and support with the other. Practice a stable isosceles or Weaver stance to manage recoil.
  • Sighting: Utilize the adjustable sights effectively. Align the front sight with the rear for accuracy; practice to develop muscle memory.
  • Ammunition: Use quality, reliable 5.7x28mm ammunition. Familiarize yourself with both standard and hollow-point rounds for different applications.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the barrel, chamber, and slide. Use a bore brush and solvent for the barrel; a soft cloth for the rest.
  • Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation, but avoid over-lubrication.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Neglecting Dry Fire Practice: Regular dry firing helps with trigger control and sight alignment.
  • Overlooking Ergonomics: Ensure the firearm fits your hand; adjust grip as necessary for comfort and control.
  • Ignoring Safety: Always treat the firearm as if it's loaded, and follow a

Legal Considerations in Colorado

The FN Five-seveN, chambered in 5.7x28mm, is a semi-automatic pistol primarily used by military and law enforcement. In the U.S., it is legal for civilian ownership in many states, but regulations vary significantly. Some states, like California and New York, impose restrictions or bans on its purchase due to its magazine capacity and the characteristics of the firearm.

Federal law classifies the Five-seveN as a handgun, and it is subject to the National Firearms Act (NFA) if modified with certain features. Notable legal cases involving the Five-seveN include debates around its use in crimes and discussions on its ammunition's effectiveness, leading to scrutiny over its availability.

Overall, while civilians can generally own the Five-seveN, they must navigate a complex web of state laws that may impose restrictions on its sale, possession, or use. Always consult local laws for the most accurate and updated information.

Five-seveN: Reviews and Ratings

User reviews for the Five-seveN 5.7x28mm firearm highlight several recurring themes. Many users praise its accuracy and low recoil, making it suitable for both target shooting and self-defense. The reliability of the firearm is frequently noted, with users appreciating its performance across various conditions and ammunition types.

However, some reviews mention concerns about the availability and cost of ammunition, which can be a deterrent for potential buyers. Ergonomics and the lightweight design are often highlighted positively, enhancing the shooting experience.

Customer service experiences vary; some users report prompt and helpful responses, while others express frustration with delays or lack of support. Overall, satisfaction levels are generally high, with many users recommending the Five-seveN for its unique features and performance, despite the challenges related to ammunition and customer service.

Five-seveN: Appearances in Media

The Five-seveN 5.7x28mm firearm has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list:

Movies:
1. Die Another Day (2002) - James Bond uses a Five-seveN.
2. The Expendables (2010) - Several characters are seen using the Five-seveN.
3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014) - The character Katniss Everdeen uses a Five-seveN.

TV Shows:
1. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation - The Five-seveN has been featured in various episodes throughout the series.
2. The Blacklist - Characters have been seen using the Five-seveN in certain episodes.

Video Games:
1. Counter-Strike series - The Five-seveN is available as a weapon in multiple versions of the game.
2. Escape from Tarkov - The Five-seveN is featured as a firearm option.
3. Far Cry series - The Five-seveN appears in some entries of the series.
4. Battlefield series - The Five-seveN is included in several Battlefield games.
5. Call of Duty series - The Five-seveN has been featured in various titles within the Call of Duty franchise.

This list includes a range of appearances across different forms of media, showcasing the firearm's popularity in popular culture.

Five-seveN: Related Models

Learn to Shoot Safely in Colorado Springs

Reading about a firearm is a start — training is what builds confidence. Colorado Boots Firearms Instruction offers the Colorado Concealed Carry License Training, Handgun Fundamentals and Intro to Rifle courses.

Text Us About Classes Call 719-782-8793 See Class Schedule

Related Firearms in the Library

Upcoming Classes

New class dates are posted regularly. Call 719-782-8793 for the next available date or text us.

See the full class schedule →