A Pistol with a Past
The world of firearms is filled with iconic names and innovative designs, each vying for a place in the hearts (and holsters) of shooters. One such firearm that has carved its own unique niche is the FN Five-seveN. This pistol, with its striking appearance and unconventional chambering, immediately captures attention. But is it merely a head-turner, or does it offer substance to match its style? This review aims to delve deep into the FN Five-seveN, exploring its features, performance, advantages, and disadvantages to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your specific needs and preferences.
The story of the FN Five-seveN begins in the late twentieth century, a period marked by evolving military and law enforcement needs. It emerged as a collaborative effort between Fabrique Nationale (FN) Herstal and a request from NATO for a new PDW (Personal Defense Weapon) in the early nineties. The primary goal was to create a sidearm and submachine gun combination that could penetrate body armor commonly used in that era. From the outset, the design considered a new type of round as part of its core philosophy. This was the foundation for what would become the 5.7x28mm cartridge, a unique round specifically engineered to compliment the gun’s design. The goal was clear: provide a lightweight, high-capacity firearm with superior penetration capabilities.
The handgun was designed and developed in parallel with the FN P90, a submachine gun sharing the same ammunition. This partnership ensured that the 5.7x28mm cartridge could be fully exploited, catering both to those looking for a long gun and those who preferred something smaller. The Five-seveN was finally released to the civilian market in the early 2000s, offering a performance profile unlike any other readily available pistol at that time.
Understanding the Core Components
The FN Five-seveN is more than just a pretty face; it is a product of meticulous engineering. It’s important to know the components that contribute to its uniqueness. The pistol features a polymer frame, which makes it noticeably lightweight compared to metal-framed handguns. This lightness improves maneuverability and reduces fatigue during extended use. This frame is paired with a steel slide, adding strength and durability to the critical parts.
The heart of the Five-seveN is its chambering for the 5.7x28mm cartridge. Unlike the more common 9mm or .45 ACP rounds, the 5.7x28mm is a bottlenecked, high-velocity round. The design helps it to deliver a flat trajectory, meaning the bullet drops less over distance than more traditional pistol rounds.
The pistol features a locked breech, short recoil operating system. Upon firing, the barrel and slide recoil together briefly before unlocking. This system contributes to the gun’s accuracy and helps mitigate felt recoil, which is another benefit when compared to pistols with smaller calibers.
The standard magazine capacity is quite generous, often holding a considerable number of rounds. This high capacity is a definite plus for those who value extended firepower. The standard magazines typically hold a capacity, with extended magazines also available, for those who want additional rounds. The control layout of the FN Five-seveN is designed for intuitive operation. The ambidextrous slide release is typically easy to find and manipulate. Similarly, the magazine release is usually within easy reach.
Feeling the Five-seveN in Action
Accuracy is a key consideration for any handgun. The FN Five-seveN generally performs well in this department. The flat trajectory of the 5.7x28mm round, coupled with a decent sight radius, contributes to accurate shot placement, particularly at medium ranges. Consistent shot placement can be expected with this platform.
The recoil impulse is noticeably light. The high-velocity, low-mass projectile produces a push rather than a snap, making follow-up shots quick and comfortable. This can benefit shooters, especially those who are new to handguns or are recoil-sensitive.
The ergonomics of the Five-seveN are another highlight. The grip is generally comfortable, and the polymer frame offers a good degree of grip. The design ensures the pistol sits well in the hand, promoting positive control.
Reliability is usually good, but, as with any firearm, proper maintenance is essential. The pistol has a reputation for being generally dependable when well-maintained. The potential for malfunctions is low if the firearm is kept clean and lubricated.
The Five-seveN is relatively easy to manipulate and shoot fast. The trigger pull is generally smooth, contributing to better accuracy. The combination of lightweight design, comfortable grip, and manageable recoil makes it a pistol that can be readily mastered with practice.
The effectiveness of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, in stopping power, is a frequently debated topic. While not a heavy hitter compared to some larger calibers, the high velocity of the round allows it to cause significant damage in a self-defense situation. Its flat trajectory also makes it less sensitive to range estimation errors compared to slower bullets. The stopping power is considered adequate for self-defense, while still possessing the flat trajectory benefits.
The Balance Sheet: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The FN Five-seveN presents a compelling package, but like all firearms, it has its strengths and weaknesses.
Some of the benefits are:
Lightweight and ergonomic design is a top selling point.
High magazine capacity promotes confidence and increases the amount of time between reloads.
Low recoil makes it suitable for shooters of all experience levels.
The high-velocity ammunition ensures a flat trajectory and long range accuracy.
Unique design of the FN Five-seveN sets it apart from other firearms.
And the downsides:
The cost and availability of ammunition is a concern for some.
Potential over-penetration must be considered, and the user must be educated on the ammo’s performance.
Trigger pull might not be ideal for everyone, and some may find the trigger pull to be a deterrent.
The initial cost of the pistol can be high, depending on the retailer.
Aftermarket support is more limited compared to more mainstream pistols.
Ammunition Choices: Fueling the Fire
The FN Five-seveN’s performance hinges on its special round. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is available in a variety of types. These cartridges typically come in different bullet weights and designs, each with unique performance characteristics. The standard loads typically have projectiles that travel at very high speeds.
There are various commercial ammunition options available, providing different performance profiles. Selecting the right ammo is essential and depends on the shooter’s needs. It’s crucial to be aware of the legal restrictions regarding certain ammunition types. The ammunition market has grown over the years, and it is now more readily available than it once was.
Comparing Pistols: Understanding the Competition
To assess the FN Five-seveN effectively, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular pistols. Comparing it against some alternatives, especially in 9mm, is useful. Compared to more compact 9mm pistols, the Five-seveN is likely to be larger. However, it could be lighter. Both offer a degree of reliability and accuracy.
The price point will differ. 9mm handguns are often available at a lower cost. The FN Five-seveN, with its unique chambering and higher production costs, will typically command a higher price. The features, intended use and the user’s specific needs ultimately determine which handgun is right for you.
Who is the Right Buyer? Determining Suitability
The FN Five-seveN is a good fit for a range of users. It appeals to those who appreciate innovative designs and seek a high-capacity, low-recoil pistol. Shooters with recoil sensitivity find it particularly enjoyable to shoot. Its flat trajectory and potentially high capacity also make it an attractive option for target shooting. It is worth evaluating if it’s a good fit for self-defense, as you would want to factor in local laws and ammunition choices.
The size of the pistol can be an issue if you are thinking of carrying concealed. For some, the Five-seveN might be too large for this role.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Firearm Ready
Like any firearm, the FN Five-seveN requires routine maintenance. Regular cleaning is essential for reliable operation. The pistol should be cleaned after each shooting session and, at a minimum, periodically. The process involves disassembling the pistol. Clean the barrel and other parts. Lubricate the moving parts with a quality gun oil. Thorough cleaning can prevent malfunctions. Regular inspection of the parts is also a good idea.
Proper storage is just as important. Store the pistol in a secure location away from children.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The FN Five-seveN is a unique pistol that offers a compelling mix of features and performance. Its low recoil, high capacity, and accuracy are desirable traits. The special 5.7x28mm cartridge and the gun’s innovative design set it apart.
However, the high cost of the gun and its ammo, and the potential for over-penetration of the 5.7x28mm cartridge are factors that must be weighed.
Ultimately, the FN Five-seveN is a fascinating choice, but it may not be for everyone. If you’re seeking a lightweight, high-capacity pistol with unique characteristics and are willing to deal with the ammunition cost and potential limitations, the FN Five-seveN is worth considering. Before making any final decisions, always take time to check local laws.
What are your thoughts on the FN Five-seveN? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!
