FN Five-seveN
Posted May 25, 2023
If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate sidearm that packs a punch, then the FN Five-seveN should certainly be on your shortlist. Built by FN Herstal, the Belgian arms manufacturer, the Five-seveN has enjoyed an almost cult-like following over the years as one of the most popular handguns for sport shooting and self-defense. And while the Five-seveN has earned plenty of praise over the years, it’s important to remember that this is a sidearm with serious drawbacks that might not necessarily suit everyone’s needs.
Design
The FN Five-seveN features a polymer frame that is light yet surprisingly tough. The frame has an ergonomic design that is both comfortable in the hand and makes shooting very easy. The slide has a matte black finish with serrations at the back for increased grip, while the sights are adjustable to ensure precision. The gun also features an under-barrel accessory rail for the attachment of a light or laser sight.
Ergonomics
The Five-seveN is renowned for its ergonomic design which makes shooting a breeze. The grip is just right; it’s easy to get a good hold on the gun and it doesn’t feel too small. The sights are adjustable for windage and elevation, while the slide is easy to work and the trigger is very crisp. The gun also features a magazine disconnect, which means that the gun won’t fire if the magazine is removed.
Accuracy
The Five-seveN is renowned for its accuracy; it’s not quite up to the standards of some of the higher-end target pistols, but it’s still very accurate. The gun is capable of tight groupings at up to 25 meters, with the five-shot groups consistently measuring out at around two inches.
Caliber and Recoil
The Five-seveN is chambered in 5.7x28mm, which is an unusual cartridge that’s notable mainly for its low recoil. The gun is also surprisingly quiet, thanks in part to the low. With good control over recoil, follow-up shots should be fairly easy.
Capacity and Magazine
The Five-seveN is a semi-automatic handgun that comes with a 20-round magazine, giving it a generous capacity for a sidearm. The magazines are all stamped with the FN logo, and there are also 20-round magazines made by Mec-Gar, an aftermarket manufacturer.
Ammo Availability
The ammo used by the Five-seveN is a bit more difficult to find than the ammo for more popular calibers, but it’s not impossible. FN produces the 5.7x28mm ammo, but it can be a bit pricey. There are also several aftermarket manufacturers who make the ammo, and most gun shops should be able to get you what you need.
Sights
The FN Five-seveN comes with adjustable sights that are well suited for target shooting. They’re not quite up to the standards of some higher-end pistols, but they’re still serviceable. They even glow in the dark for easier target acquisition in low light conditions.
Safety
The FN Five-seveN has a number of safety features, including a magazine disconnect that prevents the gun from firing if the magazine is removed. The gun also has a trigger safety that must be pressed before the trigger can be pulled. This ensures that the gun cannot be fired unless the safety is disengaged.
Overall Impression
The FN Five-seveN is a reliable, accurate handgun that has earned plenty of well-deserved praise over the years. It has a comfortable yet ergonomic grip, plus an adjustable trigger and adjustable sights that make shooting a breeze. Its low recoil also makes shooting very easy, and the generous magazine capacity and rugged construction make this gun suitable for both self-defense and target shooting. Of course, ammo availability can be an issue, and the sights aren’t quite as good as some other pistols, but overall the Five-seveN is an excellent sidearm that should be on any shooter’s shortlist.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Incredibly low recoil round
-High capacity magazines
-Lightweight construction
-Low muzzle flash
-High accuracy
-Great performance against body armor
Cons:
-Expensive ammunition
-Objectionable recoil for some shooters
-Unconventional layout (several external parts)
-Clumsy reloads (from a prone position)
-Requires special magazines for certain models
-Low terminal/stopping power
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is legally able to own a firearm and passes a background check can buy a FN Five-seveN. The gun is most suitable for regular target shooting and those looking for a competitive handgun. It is relatively lightweight, and the 5.7mm ammo it fires is more efficient than other handgun calibers when it comes to airborne debris. The gun is not recommended for self-defense purposes due the light recoil of its firing action. Additionally, because it is difficult to find or purchase 5.7mm ammunition, the gun is not always the most practical choice for those looking to purchase a weapon for practical purposes.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Mag Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FN Five-seveN | 5.7x28mm | 20 Rounds | $1,349 |
| SIG Sauer P320 | 9mm | 17 Rounds | $449 |
| HS Produkt VHS-2 | 9mm | 17 Rounds | $479 |
| CZ P-10 C | 9mm | 15 Rounds | $499 |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: 5.7×28mm
•Action: Delayed Blowback
•Capacity: 10, 20, or 30 rounds
•Barrel Length: 4.8 inches
•Overall Length: 8.2 inches
•Weight: 1.6 pounds (empty)
•Muzzle Velocity: 2,350 feet per second
Popular Accessories
pistol?
- Laser Sight – A laser sight is one of the most popular accessories for a FN Five-seveN pistol, providing the shooter with a more accurate aiming point in low light conditions.
- Extended Magazine – An extended magazine for a FN Five-seveN pistol increases the capacity from 20 rounds to 30, allowing for more rounds to be loaded, fired and stored before having to reload.
- Soft Shell Case – A soft shell case is a popular accessory for any FN Five-seveN pistol as it helps to protect the weapon while in storage or while being transported.
- Slings – Slings are essential for being able to carry the FN Five-seveN pistol on your body, easily enableing access to the weapon and making it comfortable and convenient for transport.
- Magazine Speed Loader – A magazine speed loader is a device used to quickly and easily load rounds into magazines for FN Five-seveN pistols, cutting down on the time it takes to reload.
- Lights and Lasers – Attaching a light and laser to the FN Five-seveN allows the user to better aim and illuminate their target, even in low light conditions.
- Holster – A holster is essential for carrying the FN Five-seveN pistol securely and comfortably.
Accuracy
The FN Five-seveN is renowned for its accuracy. It is a highly accurate handgun that is easy to handle and shoot, even for inexperienced shooters. The reduced recoil due to the low pressure 5.7 x 28mm cartridge makes this pistol a dream to shoot. The FN Five-seveN is capable of delivering good accuracy out to 50 yards with its polygonal rifling, which is used to increase the accuracy of the handgun. The pistol also has a 20-round magazine for extended practice sessions. With careful shooting, it is possible to group shots into a 3-inch circle or smaller at 25 yards. When it comes to accuracy, the FN Five-seveN is an impressive handgun.
