If Mighty Mouse was a bullet…
When it comes to choosing a firearm for self defense, there are a lot of factors to consider, including caliber, size, weight, and more. One caliber that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the 5.7x28mm, which was developed by Belgian firearms manufacturer FN Herstal in the 1990s. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of the 5.7x28mm caliber for self defense.
Low Recoil
One of the biggest advantages of the 5.7x28mm caliber is its low recoil. This is because the cartridge is relatively small and lightweight, which means that it generates less recoil than larger calibers like the .45 ACP or 9mm. This makes the 5.7x28mm easier to shoot accurately and quickly, which is important in a self defense situation where split-second decisions can be the difference between life and death.
High Velocity
Another benefit of the 5.7x28mm caliber is its high velocity. The cartridge is capable of reaching velocities of over 2,000 feet per second, which means that it can deliver a lot of kinetic energy to the target. This can be especially effective against soft targets like flesh, which can be penetrated easily by the 5.7x28mm round.
High Capacity
Many firearms that are chambered in 5.7x28mm are designed to hold a high number of rounds in the magazine. For example, the FN Five-seveN pistol has a standard magazine capacity of 20 rounds, which is significantly higher than most other pistols. This means that you can carry more rounds with you for self defense without having to reload as frequently.
Armor-Piercing Capability
One unique feature of the 5.7x28mm caliber is its armor-piercing capability. Certain types of 5.7x28mm rounds, such as the SS190 and SS192, are designed to penetrate body armor and other types of protective gear. This can be especially useful in a self defense situation where the attacker is wearing body armor.
Lightweight and Compact Firearms
Finally, firearms that are chambered in 5.7x28mm are often lightweight and compact. This makes them easy to carry and conceal, which is important for self defense. The FN Five-seveN pistol, for example, weighs just 21 ounces and has a length of 8.2 inches, making it a very compact firearm.
In conclusion, the 5.7x28mm caliber offers a number of benefits for self defense, including low recoil, high velocity, high capacity, armor-piercing capability, and lightweight and compact firearms. Of course, as with any caliber, there are also potential downsides to consider, such as cost and availability of ammunition. However, for those who are willing to invest in the 5.7x28mm platform, it can be a highly effective choice for self defense.
