FiveseveN

The Five-seveN is a semi-automatic pistol manufactured by FN Herstal of Belgium. Chambered for the 5.7×28mm cartridge, it was introduced in 1998 to complement the FN P90 personal defense weapon and to provide a compact, high-capacity sidearm with improved performance over traditional service pistols.

Design and features: The pistol uses a polymer frame with a steel slide and a fixed barrel. It operates on a delayed blowback system and is equipped with rails for accessories. A typical standard magazine holds 20 rounds, with higher-capacity magazines available in some markets. The Five-seveN generally features ergonomic controls and a three-dot sight system, with variants offering different finishes and safety configurations.

Ammunition: The 5.7×28mm cartridge was designed to be light-recoiling yet high-velocity, enabling a flat trajectory and effective performance from a compact platform. The cartridge family includes hollow-point and armor-piercing variants, and certain armor-piercing rounds, such as SS190, have attracted attention for their potential to defeat lightweight body armor under specific conditions. Availability of armor-piercing ammunition is regulated by jurisdiction.

Variants and market: The standard Five-seveN remains in production, and variants including a version marketed as Five-seveN USG were developed for government use in some regions. Civilian-legal variants exist in countries with appropriate laws, often differing in finishes and safety features.

Operational use and reception: The Five-seveN has been adopted by a range of military, police, and security forces worldwide. It is noted for its high magazine capacity and low recoil, while its use is balanced by considerations such as cost and ammunition restrictions in certain markets.