The question “what does a P90 shoot” is more common than you might expect, especially from those new to modern personal defense weapons. On the surface, it seems simple, but the answer touches on ballistics, terminal performance, and the specific role the weapon plays in a shooter’s arsenal. Understanding what projectile leaves the barrel helps clarify why this compact rifle is so effective in close-quarters scenarios.
Breaking Down the Cartridge
To answer what a P90 shoots, you first have to look at the ammunition. This rifle is chambered for the 5.7×28mm cartridge, a round specifically engineered for military and law enforcement use. Unlike traditional pistol calibers, the 5.7×28mm is a high-velocity round designed to deliver consistent performance through a shorter barrel.
The Projectile and Velocity
Manufacturers typically load this cartridge with a 40-grain projectile. While that might sound light compared to rifle rounds, the speed is what makes the difference. The P90 can propel this bullet at roughly 2,300 feet per second. This high velocity contributes significantly to the flat trajectory and long effective range of the platform.
Terminal Ballistics and Performance
When discussing what the P90 shoots, the conversation inevitably turns to terminal ballistics—what happens when the bullet hits the target. The 5.7×28mm is designed to penetrate standard Level IIIA body armor, a feature that defines its tactical utility. Upon impact, the projectile tends to yaw and fragment, creating a permanent wound cavity that is significantly larger than its diameter.
Effective range for soft targets is generally considered to be around 200 meters.
The round maintains velocity over distance better than most pistol rounds.
It offers a balance between manageable recoil and stopping power.
Comparison to Other Calibers To truly understand the 5.7×28mm, comparing it to other rounds is helpful. While it is similar in size to the .22 LR, the performance characteristics are vastly different. When stacked against larger pistol cartridges like the 9mm Parabellum, the 5.7mm offers superior velocity and less recoil, making it easier to control in rapid succession. Caliber Typical Weight (grains) Velocity (fps) Common Use 5.7×28mm 40 2,300 Armor Penetration 9mm 115-147 1,200-1,400 General Defense .223 Remington 55-65 3,200 Rifle Platforms The Practical Application
To truly understand the 5.7×28mm, comparing it to other rounds is helpful. While it is similar in size to the .22 LR, the performance characteristics are vastly different. When stacked against larger pistol cartridges like the 9mm Parabellum, the 5.7mm offers superior velocity and less recoil, making it easier to control in rapid succession.
So, what does a P90 shoot in a real-world context? It shoots a high-speed, armor-piercing round that allows a shooter to engage threats effectively while maintaining a low profile. The combination of the compact frame and the 5.7×28mm round makes it ideal for military personnel and law enforcement officers who operate in environments where space is limited and threats are close.
