Description
The M&P 5.7 MANUAL THUMB SAFETY Handguns Semi Auto is Smith & Wesson’s modern, polymer-frame pistol chambered in the high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge. It’s a full-size duty pistol designed for high capacity, low recoil, and reliable performance, featuring a manual thumb safety for an added layer of secure carry. This model brings the unique ballistic profile of the 5.7mm round into a familiar, ergonomic platform that’s ready for the range or home defense.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of various 5.7x28mm loads through this platform, and here’s what stands out. The manual thumb safety is a crisp, positive click—it’s not an afterthought. The overall feel is like a slightly slimmer, lighter M&P 9mm, but the shooting experience is where it diverges completely. Recoil is incredibly flat, almost like a .22 WMR on steroids, allowing for remarkably fast follow-up shots. The 22-round magazine capacity means you’re spending more time shooting and less time reloading.
Key Features
- Chambered in the low-recoil, high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge.
- Manual thumb safety for secure carry and handling preference.
- 22+1 round standard magazine capacity.
- Optics-ready slide with Smith & Wesson’s patented mounting system.
- Striker-fired with a consistent, crisp trigger pull.
- Polymer frame with aggressive texturing and four interchangeable palmswell grips.
Specifications & Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.7x28mm |
| Barrel Length | 4.8 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.2 inches |
| Height | 5.8 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 24.3 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 22 Rounds |
Weighing in at 24.3 ounces unloaded, it’s light for its size, which is a benefit for all-day carry but something to get used to if you’re coming from all-steel frames. The 4.8-inch barrel helps wring out the velocity that makes the 5.7mm round so interesting. The slide is optics-ready out of the box for popular micro red dots, and it’s a system that works—no gunsmithing required to mount a compatible optic like a Holosun 507K or Shield RMSc footprint model. That’s a huge plus for moving directly to a modern setup.
Who This Pistol Is For
This isn’t a niche gun, but it serves specific shooters exceptionally well. First, it’s for the recoil-sensitive shooter or someone introducing a new shooter to centerfire pistols—the impulse is that mild. Second, it’s for the home defender who values high capacity and low over-penetration risk with the right defensive ammo. Finally, it’s for the enthusiast who already has the 9mm bases covered and wants the unique performance of the 5.7x28mm platform in a proven, ergonomic format. At $584.10, it’s positioned as a premium duty pistol, but one that delivers on its promises.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The flat shooting experience is its biggest asset. Magazine capacity is fantastic. The manual safety is well-executed. Ergonomics are classic M&P—excellent. It’s optics-ready from the factory. The caliber offers interesting ballistic advantages with modern defensive loads.
Cons: Ammunition cost is higher than 9mm, though it’s coming down. Holster selection isn’t as vast as for Glock 19 or standard M&P 9mm models, but major makers like Vedder and Alien Gear have options. Some shooters find the grip a bit long front-to-back. It’s a full-size pistol, so concealed carry requires commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 5.7x28mm round effective for self-defense?
A: With modern, purpose-designed defensive ammunition from brands like Federal Premium and FN, absolutely. It’s a different approach—high velocity, lower mass—that can offer excellent terminal performance with reduced risk of over-penetration compared to some traditional rounds. Do your homework on ammo selection.
Q: Does this share magazines with the FN Five-seveN pistol?
A: No, it does not. The M&P 5.7 uses Smith & Wesson’s proprietary magazine design. They are not cross-compatible with the FN Five-seveN or the PSA Rock, so you’ll need to source S&W-specific mags.
Q: Can I carry this with the safety on or off?
A: That’s the point of the manual thumb safety model—you have the choice. You can carry it in the “fire” position like a standard striker pistol, or engage the safety for an added layer of security during re-holstering or storage. The choice is yours, and the gun functions reliably either way. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when ordering online.
Look, if you’re curious about the 5.7x28mm world but want it in a more familiar, ergonomic, and feature-rich package than some early offerings, the M&P 5.7 with a manual safety is a compelling answer. It bridges the gap between novelty and serious tool. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states. If the specs and purpose align with your needs, it’s a solid investment in a modern caliber platform.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.