Federal Premium, a subsidiary of Vista Outdoor Inc., is a well-established American ammunition manufacturer with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. While Federal Premium has a significant history in ammunition production, it’s important to note that the 5.7x28mm cartridge itself has a separate history tied to

FN Herstal, a Belgian firearms manufacturer.

Here’s a brief overview of the history of Federal Premium and its involvement with the 5.7x28mm cartridge:

1. Founding of Federal Cartridge Company: Federal Premium’s history begins in 1922 when Charles L. Horn established the Federal Cartridge Company in Anoka, Minnesota. Initially, the company focused on producing shotshell and centerfire ammunition.
2. Expansion and Innovation: Over the decades, Federal Cartridge Company expanded its product offerings and developed a reputation for innovation in ammunition design and manufacturing. They introduced various new cartridges and technologies, becoming a prominent player in the industry.
3. Introduction of the 5.7x28mm Cartridge: The 5.7x28mm cartridge itself was developed by FN Herstal, a Belgian firearms manufacturer, in the late 1980s. It was primarily designed for use in the FN P90 submachine gun and the FN Five-seveN pistol. Federal Premium became one of the prominent manufacturers of 5.7x28mm ammunition to support the firearms chambered for this caliber.
4. Collaboration with FN Herstal: Federal Premium collaborated with FN Herstal to produce high-quality 5.7x28mm ammunition for civilian and law enforcement markets in the United States. FN’s firearms and Federal Premium’s ammunition complemented each other, creating a significant presence in the shooting sports and personal defense markets.
5. Market Expansion: The 5.7x28mm cartridge gained popularity not only for its use in FN firearms but also for its unique characteristics, such as armor-piercing capabilities and low recoil. Federal Premium played a key role in making this ammunition widely available to civilian shooters.
6. Continued Innovation: Federal Premium has continued to innovate in ammunition technology, developing products for various applications, including target shooting, hunting, personal defense, and law enforcement.

Federal Premium’s involvement with the 5.7x28mm cartridge represents their commitment to producing high-quality, innovative ammunition to meet the needs of shooters and law enforcement personnel. While the company itself has a long history, its association with the 5.7x28mm cartridge is relatively more recent, dating to the cartridge’s introduction in the late 1980s and its adoption in FN Herstal firearms.

The 5.7x28mm ammunition, often simply referred to as “5.7 ammo,” is a small-caliber, bottlenecked centerfire cartridge. This ammunition is notable for its use in firearms such as the FN Five-seveN pistol and the FN P90 submachine gun. Here is some information about 5.7x28mm ammunition:

1. Caliber and Dimensions: The 5.7x28mm cartridge has a caliber of 5.7mm and a length of 28mm. It features a bottlenecked design, meaning the cartridge case narrows towards the neck to accommodate a smaller-diameter bullet.
2. Bullet Types: 5.7x28mm ammunition is available in various bullet types, including full metal jacket (FMJ), hollow point (HP), and other specialized designs. FMJ rounds are often used for target practice and training, while HP rounds are designed for self-defense and personal protection due to their ability to expand upon impact.
3. Velocity and Ballistics: This ammunition is known for its high velocity, often exceeding 1,600 feet per second (fps). The high velocity results in a relatively flat trajectory, making it effective at longer distances. The cartridge’s ballistics make it suitable for both close-quarters combat and longer-range engagements.
4. Magazine Capacity: Firearms chambered in 5.7x28mm often have larger magazine capacities compared to traditional handguns. The FN P90, for example, can hold up to 50 rounds in its magazine, providing a substantial amount of firepower.
5. Applications: 5.7x28mm ammunition was originally developed for military and law enforcement use due to its armor-piercing capabilities. However, it has also gained popularity among civilian shooters for target shooting, competition, and personal defense.
6. Legal Considerations: It’s essential to be aware of and adhere to all local, state, and federal laws and regulations regarding the purchase, possession, and use of 5.7x28mm ammunition. Laws can vary widely by location and may include restrictions on magazine capacity and bullet types.
7. Availability: The availability of 5.7x28mm ammunition can vary depending on your location and current market conditions. It’s advisable to check with local gun shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers for availability and pricing.
8. Accessories: Accessories such as holsters, magazines, and optics designed for firearms chambered in 5.7x28mm are available to enhance the shooting experience and customize your firearm to your needs.

   

Before purchasing and using 5.7x28mm ammunition, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and responsible firearm handling practices. Seek proper training if you are new to firearms, and always ensure that you are using the correct ammunition for your specific firearm. Additionally, stay informed about the legal requirements and restrictions in your area regarding ammunition and firearm ownership.