5.7 AR Upper: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking to enhance your firearm collection or are you a firearms enthusiast seeking to understand the intricacies of modern firearm technology? The 5.7x35mm cartridge, commonly referred to as the 5.7 AR Upper, has gained significant popularity in recent years. This article will delve into the details of the 5.7 AR Upper, covering its history, design, performance, and applications.
History of the 5.7x35mm Cartridge
The 5.7x35mm cartridge was developed by FN Herstal, a Belgian firearms manufacturer, in the early 1990s. The cartridge was designed for the FN P90 personal defense weapon (PDW), which was intended to replace the 9mm Parabellum cartridge used in the FN FAL rifle. The 5.7x35mm cartridge offers a combination of high velocity, reduced recoil, and excellent terminal ballistics, making it an ideal choice for a PDW.
Design and Construction
The 5.7 AR Upper is a firearm component that fits onto an AR-15-type lower receiver. It is designed to accept the 5.7x35mm cartridge, which is significantly smaller than the 5.56x45mm cartridge used in the standard AR-15 rifle. The following are some key aspects of the 5.7 AR Upper’s design and construction:
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Barrel: The barrel is typically 16 inches in length and made from stainless steel. It is chambered for the 5.7x35mm cartridge and features a 1:9-inch twist rate, which is ideal for stabilizing the 5.7mm bullet.
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Handguard: The handguard is designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip while allowing for easy attachment of accessories such as flashlights, lasers, and optics.
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Receiver: The receiver is made from high-quality aluminum and is compatible with standard AR-15 accessories, such as magazines, stocks, and sights.
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Chamber and Bolt: The chamber and bolt are designed specifically for the 5.7x35mm cartridge, ensuring reliable feeding and extraction.
Performance
The 5.7 AR Upper offers several performance advantages over traditional firearms:
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High Velocity: The 5.7mm bullet exits the barrel at approximately 2,200 feet per second, providing excellent terminal ballistics.
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Reduced Recoil: The 5.7x35mm cartridge produces significantly less recoil than the 5.56x45mm cartridge, making it easier to control and shoot accurately.
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Excellent Terminal Ballistics: The 5.7mm bullet is designed to expand and fragment upon impact, providing effective terminal ballistics at various distances.
Applications
The 5.7 AR Upper is suitable for a variety of applications, including:
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Personal Defense: The reduced recoil and high velocity make the 5.7 AR Upper an excellent choice for personal defense.
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Home Defense: The 5.7 AR Upper is well-suited for home defense, as it is easy to control and offers excellent terminal ballistics.
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Recreational Shooting: The 5.7 AR Upper is a popular choice for recreational shooters who are looking for a firearm that is both fun to shoot and effective.
Comparison with Other Firearms
When comparing the 5.7 AR Upper to other firearms, it is important to consider the following factors:
Firearm | Caliber | Recoil | Terminal Ballistics |
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5.7 AR Upper | 5.7x35mm | Low | Excellent |
9mm Parabellum | 9x19mm | Medium | Good |