Ruger 5.7 Review

Meet the Ruger 5.7, chambered in 5.7x28mm, offering a high capacity of 20+1 rounds. It features a 4.94″ barrel, lightweight design at 24.5 oz, and glass-filled nylon frame. Equipped with adjustable rear and fiber optic front sights, and a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail for accessories. Renowned for its high velocity, low recoil, and capacity to pierce body armor in certain rounds, it piqued my interest as both a recreational shooter and a self-defense advocate. This review reflects my hands-on experience with this unique firearm, highlighting its practicality, performance, and where it stands among its peers.

Things I Love About the Ruger 5.7

1. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a standout feature for me. Its high velocity and flat shooting nature make it a joy to shoot, offering both precision and the capability to reach out further than many other pistol calibers with consistency.

2. As someone who spends a lot of time at the range, the low recoil of the Ruger 5.7 significantly contributes to my enjoyment. It allows for rapid follow-up shots and helps in maintaining accuracy over extended shooting sessions without the fatigue associated with heavier recoiling firearms.

3. With a standard magazine capacity of 20 rounds, the Ruger 5.7 gives me a sense of ample readiness, whether I’m using it for target practice or considering it for self-defense purposes. The high capacity is a significant advantage, offering more shots before needing to reload.

4. The pistol feels great in hand, and its lightweight design makes it easy to carry for long periods, whether at the range or as a carry option. The ergonomics are well thought out, contributing to its overall shooting comfort and handling.

5. The accuracy of the Ruger 5.7 is another high point. It consistently delivers tight groupings at ranges where other pistols start to falter. This level of accuracy, combined with its other features, makes it a versatile tool in my arsenal.

6. I appreciate the modern look and feel of the Ruger 5.7, as well as its solid construction. It’s a firearm that stands out in my collection, not just for its unique caliber but also for its quality build and finish.

Things I Don’t Like About the Ruger 5.7

1. The 5.7x28mm ammunition can be pricey and sometimes challenging to find, especially in certain markets or during ammunition shortages. This aspect can limit how often I take the Ruger 5.7 to the range.

2. Compared to more common platforms like the 9mm, finding holsters, aftermarket sights, and other accessories specifically designed for the Ruger 5.7 can be more difficult. This limitation can be frustrating for those looking to customize or enhance their pistol.

3. While the penetrating capability of the 5.7x28mm round is a benefit in some scenarios, it also raises concerns about overpenetration, especially in self-defense situations within urban or residential settings.

4. While not overly complicated, disassembling and maintaining the Ruger 5.7 can present a slight learning curve for those not familiar with its design. This aspect was a minor hurdle for me in the beginning.

5. The upfront cost of the Ruger 5.7, along with the higher price of ammunition, represents a significant investment. This factor might deter some potential users, especially those new to shooting or looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Personal Maintenance Routine

As a long-time user of the Ruger 5.7, I’ve developed a personal maintenance routine that ensures my pistol remains in top condition for reliable performance. Here’s how I keep my Ruger 5.7 maintained, based on my experiences:

Weekly Routine (With Regular Use)

• Visual Inspection: Before each cleaning session, I perform a visual inspection to check for obvious issues or wear.
• Field Strip: I follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely field strip the pistol, separating the slide from the frame and removing the barrel and recoil spring assembly.
• Cleaning the Barrel: Using a bore brush, I apply solvent to clean the barrel’s inside thoroughly. Afterward, I use a cleaning patch holder with patches to remove any residue, repeating until the patch comes out clean.
• Cleaning the Slide and Frame: I apply solvent to a cleaning brush to scrub the slide and frame, focusing on areas where residue and debris accumulate. A toothbrush works well for hard-to-reach areas.
• Lubrication: After cleaning, I apply a thin layer of gun oil to moving parts, including the slide rails, barrel, and any metal-to-metal contact points, to ensure smooth operation.
• Reassembly and Function Check: Once everything is clean and lubricated, I reassemble the pistol and perform a function check to ensure everything operates correctly.

Monthly Routine (With Light Use)

If I haven’t used the Ruger 5.7 much within the month, I still perform a lighter maintenance routine:

• Quick Clean: A brief wipe down of the exterior with a silicone cloth to remove any fingerprints or dust.
• Visual Inspection: Checking for any signs of rust, wear, or damage.
• Lubrication Check: Ensuring that previously applied lubricants haven’t dried out or collected too much dust.

Bi-Annual Deep Clean

Twice a year, regardless of how often I’ve shot it, I do a deep clean:

• Full Disassembly: Taking apart all components that can be disassembled without special tools.
• Detailed Cleaning: Using gun solvent and tools to clean every nook and cranny, paying extra attention to the firing pin area and the magazine well.
• Inspection: Looking for any worn-out parts that might need replacing.
• Lubrication and Reassembly: Applying lubricant more thoroughly than in my weekly routine and reassembling the pistol.

Additional Tips

• Ammunition Check: Regularly inspecting my ammunition for any signs of corrosion or damage.
• Magazine Maintenance: Disassembling and cleaning my magazines to ensure reliable feeding.
• Storage: Keeping my Ruger 5.7 in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prevent rust and wear.

This routine has kept my Ruger 5.7 in excellent condition, ensuring its reliability and longevity. Remember, consistent maintenance is key to any firearm’s performance and safety.

Ruger 5.7 Performance Evaluation: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Accuracy	The Ruger 5.7 offers exceptional accuracy due to its high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge and ergonomic design, making it capable of tight groupings at varied distances.	9/10
Reliability	Known for its dependable performance, the Ruger 5.7 functions reliably across a wide range of conditions and with various types of ammunition.	9/10
Versatility	Its use in recreational shooting, competition, and self-defense, along with the ability to handle various types of ammunition, highlights its versatility.	8/10
Customization	While offering some options for customization, the availability of accessories and modifications for the Ruger 5.7 is somewhat limited compared to more common platforms.	6/10
Ergonomics	The design and lightweight build of the Ruger 5.7 contribute to its excellent ergonomics, making it comfortable for extended use without fatigue.	9/10
Value	Considering its performance, the Ruger 5.7 offers good value, though the higher cost of the firearm and ammunition may be a consideration for some.	7/10
Overall	The Ruger 5.7 is a high-performing, reliable, and versatile firearm that stands out in its category, despite the higher investment in the gun and its ammunition.	8/10

Conclusion

The Ruger 5.7 is an outstanding firearm that stands out in a crowded market. Its blend of high performance, exceptional ergonomics, and durability make it a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike. The pistol’s versatility and unique chambering in 5.7x28mm offer a distinct advantage for a wide range of applications. Based on my extensive use and experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Ruger 5.7 to anyone looking for a reliable, high-performing pistol that offers something beyond the ordinary. Whether for competition, self-defense, or simply the joy of shooting, the Ruger 5.7 is an excellent investment that will not disappoint.

FAQs

1. What is the Ruger 5.7?

The Ruger 5.7 is a semi-automatic pistol designed and manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co. It is chambered for the 5.7x28mm cartridge, known for its high velocity and ability to penetrate body armor when using certain types of ammunition.

2. What makes the 5.7x28mm cartridge unique?

The 5.7x28mm cartridge is unique due to its small diameter and high velocity, which allows it to achieve greater penetration and a flatter trajectory over distance than many other handgun cartridges. It was originally developed for use in the FN P90 personal defense weapon and the FN Five-seven pistol.

3. Is the Ruger 5.7 good for self-defense?

Yes, the Ruger 5.7 is considered a good option for self-defense due to its high capacity, low recoil, and the effective penetration of the 5.7x28mm cartridge. These features allow for accurate and rapid follow-up shots if necessary.

4. Can the Ruger 5.7 be used for competitive shooting?

Absolutely, the Ruger 5.7’s accuracy, low recoil, and high-velocity rounds make it suitable for various competitive shooting disciplines. Its unique characteristics offer a competitive edge, particularly in events that value precision and speed.

5. How does the recoil of the Ruger 5.7 compare to other pistols?

The Ruger 5.7 is known for having significantly lower recoil compared to pistols chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. This low recoil improves control and accuracy, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially for those with less experience or sensitivity to recoil.

6. What is the capacity of the Ruger 5.7 magazine?

The standard magazine capacity of the Ruger 5.7 is 20 rounds, but there are also 10-round magazines available for compliance with state laws that restrict magazine capacity.

7. How does the Ruger 5.7 perform in terms of accuracy?

The Ruger 5.7 is highly accurate due to its ergonomic design, low recoil, and the ballistic characteristics of the 5.7x28mm round. Shooters can expect tight groupings at distances that are challenging for other types of handguns.

8. Is ammunition for the Ruger 5.7 widely available?

While 5.7x28mm ammunition is not as ubiquitous as 9mm or .45 ACP, its popularity has been growing, leading to increased availability. However, it may be more expensive and harder to find than more common handgun ammunition.

9. How easy is it to maintain and clean the Ruger 5.7?

The Ruger 5.7 is designed for easy maintenance and cleaning. Its simple disassembly process allows for quick and efficient cleaning and maintenance, even for those with minimal firearm experience.

10. Who would benefit most from owning a Ruger 5.7?

The Ruger 5.7 is suited for a wide range of users, including recreational shooters, competitive shooters, and those seeking a reliable and unique option for self-defense. Its low recoil, high accuracy, and the effectiveness of the 5.7x28mm cartridge make it a versatile choice for many.

Remember, the true value of a firearm lies not just in its design or history, but in the skill and responsibility of the one who wields it. Stay safe, stay trained, and let every shot fired be a testament to the respect we hold for the power in our hands.