Earlier this year we reported on the new M&P 5.7 from Smith & Wesson (below). The pistol is a well-executed, albeit slightly late entry into the 5.7x28mm market. The initial release was only offered in an all-black model. However, Smith & Wesson is now offering it in a two-tone option with a new FDE frame.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 Now in Two-Tone FDE
When the M&P 5.7 first debuted, it was only available in two models. Both models featured a black polymer frame with a black Armonite slide finish. The two options were separated only by the inclusion or exclusion of a manual thumb safety.
However, Smith & Wesson is now expanding the line by offering a two-tone model for a striking, contrasting aesthetic. This new model features the classic black Armonite finished slide and black controls paired with a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) toned polymer frame. The two-tone aesthetic pairs nicely with other FDE equipment and accessories for a cohesive theme.
The new colorway still takes advantage of the things that make the M&P 5.7 popular. This includes the 5-inch threaded, gas-operated, locked-breech Tempo Barrel System with 1:9 twist rate. Likewise, the optic-ready pistol features a four-slot Picatinny rail for mounting lights or lasers.
Additionally, the single-action flat-face trigger maintains a crisp break and promotes consistent finger placement. Featuring an impressive 22-round capacity, the M&P 5.7 ships with two magazines for ample range time between reloads.
However, the two-tone M&P 5.7 comes at a slightly higher MSRP of $719.00, where the all black models are $699.00.
Full details on the M&P 5.7 can be found below.
On January 17, 2023, Tactical Life reported:
The 5.7x28mm continues to prove itself as the little cartridge that could. It just keep finding new favor with interesting semi-automatic pistol releases. The latest entry–the new Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7. This bad boy packs a whopping an overall capacity of 22+1 rounds of the smoking-fast cartridge.
Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 Details
Right from the jump, this pistol owns that looks that most of these 5.7’s have. But it retains a lot of M&P styling as well. It gains the slim profile and grip. And an internal, hammer-fired, gas-operated, locked-breech TEMPO barrel system stands out. The barrel doesn’t cam open until the bullet passes the gas port, according to S&W.
Other features include a slide cut for optics, keeping with current trends. A reversible magazine release and ambidextrous slide stop, along with a manual thumb safety (optional), provide utility. A flat-face trigger brings consistency in finger placement. Forward slide serrations and Picatinny rail provide usual touches.
The pistol ships with two, 22-round magazines. Now that’s sporty. This full-size pistol, with it’s 5-inch barrel, should prove to be a real shooter. For more info, visit smith-wesson.com.
S&W M&P 5.7 Specs & Features
- Caliber: 5.7x28mm
- Frame Size: Full-Size
- Action: Internal Hammer-Fired, Gas-Operated, Locked-Breech
- Overall Capacity: 22+1
- Barrel Length: 5 inches
- Rifling: 1:9″
- Front Sight: Steel, White Dot
- Rear Sight: Steel, White 2-Dot
- Frame Width: 1.1 inches
- Overall Height: 5.25 inches
- Overall Length: 8.5 inches
- Sight Radius: 7.125 inches
- Grip: Slim, textured
- Overall Weight: 26.7 ounces
- Barrel Material: Stainless Steel
- Barrel Finish: Armornite
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Armornite
- Frame Material: Black Polymer
Editor’s Note:
We’ve seen several companies jump into the 5.7 market in recent years. The Ruger 57 and FN Five-seveN each brought a ton of attention back to the cartridge. Now a new entry from S&W will likely further fuel the fire. Maybe we could argue this one is a little late to the table, that’s fair. But we fully expect S&W’s version to be well executed. Look for a full review when we get one on the range real soon.