5.7 vs 9mm: Unraveling the Caliber Debate

Choosing the right ammunition caliber can be a daunting task, especially when faced with popular options like the 5.7x28mm and the 9x19mm Parabellum (often simply called 9mm). Both cartridges have garnered significant attention and have passionate advocates. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the 5.7 vs 9mm debate, dissecting their characteristics, performance, and suitability for various applications. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a law enforcement professional, or a first-time gun owner, this article will provide the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Cartridge: 5.7x28mm

The 5.7x28mm cartridge was developed by FN Herstal in the late 1980s and early 1990s, primarily for use in the FN P90 personal defense weapon (PDW) and the FN Five-seveN pistol. Its design was driven by a need for a cartridge that could offer greater range, accuracy, and armor penetration than traditional pistol calibers like the 9mm. The 5.7mm round is characterized by its small diameter, bottlenecked shape, and high velocity. This design allows it to maintain a flatter trajectory and deliver significant energy on target.

Understanding the Cartridge: 9x19mm Parabellum

The 9x19mm Parabellum, designed by Georg Luger in 1901, is one of the most popular and widely used pistol cartridges in the world. Its widespread adoption by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters is a testament to its versatility, effectiveness, and affordability. The 9mm is a rimless, tapered cartridge known for its balance of manageable recoil, adequate stopping power, and high capacity in modern handguns. Its enduring popularity stems from its proven track record and the vast array of firearms chambered for it.

Ballistics and Performance: Head-to-Head

The core of the 5.7 vs 9mm debate lies in their ballistic performance. Here’s a detailed comparison:

• Velocity: The 5.7mm is significantly faster than the 9mm. Typical 5.7mm rounds can achieve velocities of over 2,000 feet per second (fps), while 9mm rounds generally range from 1,100 to 1,400 fps. This higher velocity contributes to the 5.7mm’s flatter trajectory and extended range.
• Trajectory: Due to its higher velocity, the 5.7mm exhibits a flatter trajectory than the 9mm. This means that the 5.7mm round will drop less over distance, making it easier to hit targets at longer ranges.
• Energy: While the 5.7mm boasts higher velocity, the 9mm often delivers more energy on target, especially with heavier bullet weights. Energy is a function of both mass and velocity, and the heavier 9mm bullet compensates for its lower velocity.
• Penetration: The 5.7mm was designed with armor penetration in mind. Certain 5.7mm rounds are capable of penetrating soft body armor, a capability that the 9mm generally lacks. However, civilian-legal 5.7mm ammunition may have limited armor-piercing capabilities.
• Recoil: The 5.7mm typically produces less felt recoil than the 9mm. This can make it easier to control the firearm and maintain accuracy, especially during rapid fire.

Firearms and Availability

The availability of firearms chambered in 5.7mm and 9mm is a significant factor to consider. The 9mm enjoys a massive advantage in this area.

• 9mm: Countless firearms are chambered in 9mm, ranging from compact pistols to full-sized handguns and even pistol-caliber carbines. This widespread availability translates to a wide range of price points and features to choose from.
• 5.7mm: The 5.7mm has fewer firearm options. The most well-known are the FN Five-seveN pistol and the FN P90 PDW. However, other manufacturers have started producing 5.7mm firearms, expanding the options available to consumers.

Ammunition Cost and Availability

Ammunition cost and availability are crucial considerations for any shooter. Here’s how the 5.7 vs 9mm compare:

• 9mm: 9mm ammunition is generally more affordable and readily available than 5.7mm ammunition. The high production volume and widespread use of 9mm contribute to its lower cost.
• 5.7mm: 5.7mm ammunition tends to be more expensive and can be harder to find, especially during periods of high demand. This is due to the lower production volume and the smaller number of manufacturers producing 5.7mm ammunition.

Real-World Applications and Use Cases

The best caliber for a given application depends on the specific needs and priorities of the user. Here’s a look at how the 5.7 vs 9mm fare in various scenarios:

• Self-Defense: Both the 5.7mm and the 9mm can be effective for self-defense. The 9mm’s wider availability, lower cost, and proven track record make it a popular choice. The 5.7mm’s higher velocity and potential for armor penetration offer advantages in certain situations.
• Law Enforcement: The 9mm is the dominant caliber in law enforcement. Its balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and high capacity make it well-suited for duty use. The 5.7mm has seen limited adoption in law enforcement, primarily in specialized units.
• Competition Shooting: The 9mm is a common choice for competition shooting, particularly in pistol events. Its accuracy, manageable recoil, and affordability make it a good fit for competitive shooting. The 5.7mm is less common in competition shooting.
• Hunting: Neither the 5.7mm nor the 9mm are ideal for hunting larger game. They may be suitable for small game hunting in certain situations, but larger calibers are generally preferred for ethical and effective hunting.

The FN Five-seveN: A 5.7mm Icon

The FN Five-seveN pistol is synonymous with the 5.7x28mm cartridge. Designed by FN Herstal, it was one of the first firearms specifically chambered for this high-velocity round. Its polymer frame and high-capacity magazine made it a lightweight and effective weapon system. The Five-seveN’s unique design and the 5.7mm cartridge’s ballistic characteristics have made it a subject of both admiration and controversy.

Key Features of the FN Five-seveN

The FN Five-seveN boasts several features that contribute to its unique performance and appeal:

• High-Velocity Cartridge: As previously discussed, the 5.7x28mm cartridge offers exceptional velocity, leading to a flatter trajectory and increased range.
• Lightweight Design: The polymer frame significantly reduces the pistol’s weight, making it comfortable to carry and handle.
• High-Capacity Magazine: The Five-seveN typically features a 20-round magazine, providing a significant advantage in firepower.
• Low Recoil: The 5.7mm cartridge produces relatively low recoil, making the pistol easier to control and allowing for faster follow-up shots.
• Ambidextrous Controls: The Five-seveN often features ambidextrous controls, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters.
• Accessory Rail: Many Five-seveN models include an accessory rail for mounting lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories.
• Reliability: The FN Five-seveN is known for its reliable performance, even under harsh conditions.

Advantages of the 5.7mm Cartridge and the Five-seveN Pistol

The combination of the 5.7mm cartridge and the Five-seveN pistol offers several distinct advantages:

• Extended Range: The high-velocity 5.7mm cartridge allows for accurate shots at longer ranges compared to traditional pistol calibers.
• Armor Penetration Potential: While civilian-legal ammunition may have limited armor-piercing capabilities, the 5.7mm cartridge was designed with armor penetration in mind.
• High Capacity: The Five-seveN’s high-capacity magazine provides a significant advantage in firepower, particularly in self-defense situations.
• Reduced Recoil: The low recoil of the 5.7mm cartridge makes the pistol easier to control, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
• Lightweight Design: The polymer frame makes the Five-seveN comfortable to carry and handle, even for extended periods.

A Critical Look: Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite its advantages, the 5.7mm cartridge and the Five-seveN pistol also have some drawbacks:

• Ammunition Cost: 5.7mm ammunition is generally more expensive than 9mm ammunition.
• Limited Firearm Options: The Five-seveN is the most well-known 5.7mm pistol, limiting the choices available to consumers.
• Stopping Power Concerns: Some critics argue that the 5.7mm cartridge lacks sufficient stopping power compared to larger calibers.
• Overpenetration Risk: The high velocity of the 5.7mm cartridge can lead to overpenetration, potentially posing a risk to bystanders.
• Availability: 5.7mm ammunition and firearms may be less readily available than 9mm alternatives, especially in certain regions.

Who is the Five-seveN and 5.7mm Cartridge For?

The FN Five-seveN and the 5.7mm cartridge are best suited for individuals who prioritize:

• Extended Range and Accuracy: Shooters who need to engage targets at longer distances.
• High Capacity: Individuals who desire a firearm with a high magazine capacity.
• Low Recoil: Shooters who are sensitive to recoil or who need to maintain accuracy during rapid fire.

It may *not* be the best choice for those primarily concerned with affordability and widespread availability.

Key Alternatives

The Glock 19, chambered in 9mm, offers a more affordable and widely available option with strong stopping power. The SIG Sauer P320, also in 9mm, provides modularity and customization options.

Expert Verdict: A Specialized Tool

The FN Five-seveN and the 5.7mm cartridge represent a specialized tool with unique capabilities. Its high velocity, extended range, and high capacity make it a viable option for certain applications. However, its higher cost and potential limitations in stopping power should be carefully considered. For many shooters, the 9mm remains a more practical and versatile choice. However, the Five-seveN certainly has a place for those who understand its strengths and limitations.

Making the Right Choice for You

The 5.7 vs 9mm debate ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences. Both calibers have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific application and the shooter’s priorities. Understanding the ballistic characteristics, firearm options, ammunition availability, and real-world applications of each caliber is essential for making an informed decision. Consider your needs and how the round will be used most often.