Hornady Black 5.7x28mm Ammunition: A Reliable and Accurate Choice for Self-Defense
As an avid shooter and enthusiast, I was excited to try out the Hornady Black 5.7x28mm ammunition for my personal defensive pistol. With its exceptional performance and reliability, I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in various scenarios.
Initial Impressions
Upon examining the packaging, I was pleased to find that the ammunition was neatly organized and protected in a high-quality case. The 25-round box was compact and easy to store, making it perfect for those with limited space.
Ballistic Characteristics
The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a relatively new and modern caliber, offering a unique set of ballistic characteristics that make it an attractive choice for self-defense. With a muzzle velocity of 2,100 ft/s and a muzzle energy rating of 395 ft/lbs, this ammunition packs a punch. The bullet itself is designed to have a flat trajectory, making it ideal for-target shooting and self-defense.
Performance and Accuracy
I was thrilled to find that the Hornady Black 5.7x28mm performed admirably in terms of accuracy and performance. During my initial test shoots, I consistently achieved groups of 2-3 inches at 25 yards, which is impressively tight for a defensive load.
Problems with Muzzle Climb and Recoil
One area where this ammunition could improve is in terms of muzzle climb and recoil. As with many other high-velocity cartridges, the 5.7x28mm can exhibit significant muzzle climb, which can be a challenge for recoil-sensitive shooters. Additionally, the higher recoil impulse can be jarring, especially for those not accustomed to handling high-power cartridges.
Pros and Cons
Here are the key pros and cons I’ve encountered with the Hornady Black 5.7x28mm ammunition:
Pros:
- Exceptional accuracy: The 5.7x28mm exhibits tight groupings and is well-suited for target shooting and self-defense.
- Reliability: The ammunition functions flawlessly in my pistol, with no failures to feed or eject.
- Consistent performance: Each round exhibited consistent velocity and energy, making it ideal for regular practice and training.
- Attractive price point: Compared to other defensive loads on the market, the Hornady Black 5.7x28mm is competitively priced.
Cons:
- Muzzle climb and recoil: The high-velocity 5.7x28mm can be challenging for some shooters, particularly those new to high-power cartridges.
- Limited availability: The 5.7x28mm is still a relatively new caliber, and sourcing parts, accessories, and spare ammo can be difficult.
- Limited ATFD base design: The flat-based bullet design may not be optimal for penetration, which could be a concern for some users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Black 5.7x28mm ammunition is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable and accurate self-defense ammunition. While it may not be perfect, its exceptional performance and accuracy make it well worth considering. However, shooters should be aware of the potential limitations, particularly with regard to muzzle climb and recoil. Overall, I’m impressed with this ammunition and would highly recommend it to those in the market for a high-performance defensive load.
