5.7 SS190 Ammunition: Performance, Applications, And Key Insights

The 5.7 SS190 cartridge is a revolutionary ammunition type that has reshaped the modern shooting landscape, offering unparalleled performance and versatility. Designed initially for military and law enforcement use, the SS190 round has gained widespread recognition for its unique combination of speed, accuracy, and penetration capabilities. Its lightweight design, coupled with high muzzle velocity, makes it a standout choice for personal defense and tactical operations alike. From its origins to its technical specifications, the 5.7 SS190 continues to be a topic of interest for firearm enthusiasts and professionals worldwide.

What sets the 5.7 SS190 apart from other ammunition types is its specialized construction and purpose-driven design. Developed in the early 1990s for the FN P90 personal defense weapon and FN Five-seveN handgun, this cartridge was engineered to penetrate body armor while maintaining precise accuracy. Its small-caliber, high-velocity profile enables it to deliver flat trajectories over long distances, making it ideal for both close-quarters combat and mid-range engagements. Despite its military origins, the 5.7 SS190 has found a growing civilian market, thanks to its adaptability and unique performance characteristics.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into every aspect of the 5.7 SS190, covering its technical specifications, historical background, ballistic performance, and modern applications. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a firearms enthusiast, or simply curious about this remarkable ammunition, this article will provide you with all the essential details you need to know. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes the 5.7 SS190 a game-changer in the world of firearms and ammunition.

Table of Contents

• History and Development of the 5.7 SS190
• Technical Specifications of the 5.7 SS190
• Ballistic Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Penetration
• Comparison to Other Ammunition Types
• Military and Law Enforcement Uses
• Civilian Applications and Popularity
• Firearms Compatible with the 5.7 SS190
• Advantages of Using the 5.7 SS190
• Limitations and Challenges
• Legality and Regulations Surrounding the 5.7 SS190
• Maintenance and Storage Tips for 5.7 SS190 Ammunition
• Cost and Availability in the Market
• Future Prospects for the 5.7 SS190
• Frequently Asked Questions About the 5.7 SS190
• Conclusion

History and Development of the 5.7 SS190

The 5.7 SS190 cartridge was developed in the early 1990s by FN Herstal, a leading firearms manufacturer based in Belgium. Its creation was driven by NATO’s request for a new personal defense weapon (PDW) system capable of defeating body armor more effectively than traditional pistol calibers. FN Herstal responded with the development of the FN P90 PDW and its companion cartridge, the 5.7x28mm, with the SS190 serving as the standard armor-piercing round.

Unlike conventional pistol ammunition, the 5.7 SS190 was designed with a focus on high velocity and low recoil. The cartridge uses a bottlenecked design, which allows it to house a smaller, lighter projectile while maintaining a high powder charge. This innovative design enables the SS190 to achieve muzzle velocities exceeding 2,300 feet per second, ensuring superior penetration and accuracy.

The SS190 round quickly gained attention for its ability to penetrate soft body armor, a feature that was critical for military and law enforcement personnel facing increasingly well-equipped adversaries. Over time, the cartridge has evolved to include various specialized versions, each tailored for specific applications, such as training, subsonic operations, and civilian use.

Key Milestones in the Development of the 5.7 SS190

• 1990: NATO issues a call for a new PDW system, prompting FN Herstal to begin development.
• 1993: The FN P90 and 5.7x28mm cartridge, including the SS190, are introduced to the market.
• 2000s: The FN Five-seveN handgun is released, further popularizing the 5.7 SS190 cartridge.
• 2010s: Civilian interest in the 5.7 SS190 grows, leading to increased availability and compatibility with non-FN firearms.

Today, the 5.7 SS190 continues to be a cornerstone of FN Herstal’s ammunition lineup, celebrated for its versatility and performance. Its development marked a significant milestone in the history of modern ammunition, setting a new standard for what a PDW cartridge could achieve.

Technical Specifications of the 5.7 SS190

The 5.7 SS190 is a small-caliber, high-velocity cartridge with a unique set of technical specifications that distinguish it from traditional handgun and rifle ammunition. Below is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Dimensions and Design

Performance Metrics

The 5.7 SS190 is known for its exceptional performance metrics, which include:

• Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 2,350 feet per second (716 meters per second).
• Muzzle Energy: Around 345 foot-pounds.
• Effective Range: Up to 200 meters.
• Recoil: Low, allowing for quick follow-up shots.

These technical specifications make the 5.7 SS190 a versatile and effective choice for a wide range of applications, from self-defense to tactical operations.

Ballistic Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Penetration

The ballistic performance of the 5.7 SS190 is one of its most defining attributes. Its design prioritizes speed and penetration, enabling it to excel in scenarios where traditional ammunition might fall short. Below, we’ll explore the key aspects of its ballistic performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 5.7 SS190

1. What is the primary purpose of the 5.7 SS190 cartridge?

The 5.7 SS190 was originally designed for military and law enforcement use, specifically to defeat body armor and provide superior accuracy at longer ranges. It has since gained popularity among civilians for self-defense and sport shooting.

2. Can civilians legally own 5.7 SS190 ammunition?

Yes, in most jurisdictions, civilians can legally own 5.7 SS190 ammunition. However, certain states or countries may have regulations restricting its possession or use, so it’s crucial to check local laws.

3. What firearms are compatible with the 5.7 SS190?

The 5.7 SS190 is compatible with firearms such as the FN P90, FN Five-seveN, and several other pistols and carbines chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge.

4. How does the 5.7 SS190 compare to 9mm ammunition?

While the 9mm offers greater stopping power and is more widely available, the 5.7 SS190 provides higher velocity, better armor penetration, and a flatter trajectory, making it suitable for specialized applications.

5. Is the 5.7 SS190 suitable for hunting?

Although not primarily designed for hunting, the 5.7 SS190 can be used for small game hunting due to its accuracy and high velocity. However, it is not recommended for larger game.

6. Where can I purchase 5.7 SS190 ammunition?

5.7 SS190 ammunition is available from various online retailers, firearms dealers, and manufacturers like FN Herstal. Ensure you purchase from a reputable source to guarantee quality and compliance with local laws.

Conclusion

The 5.7 SS190 is a groundbreaking ammunition type that has left a significant mark on the world of firearms. Its innovative design, superior performance, and versatility make it a preferred choice for both professionals and civilians. Whether you’re interested in its military origins, technical specifications, or modern applications, the 5.7 SS190 continues to be a fascinating subject in the realm of ballistics and firearms.