kel-tec Review.
Detailed Kel-Tec P57 Review.
Introduction:
The Kel-Tec P57 is a lightweight, semi-automatic pistol chambered in the high-velocity 5.7×28mm cartridge. Designed as a companion to FN’s Five-seveN pistol, the P57 offers an affordable alternative in this niche caliber with some unique Kel-Tec design features.
Kel-Tec pr57 Pistol
- Capacity: 20+1 rounds 3 Clips
Specifications:
- Caliber: 5.7×28mm
- Barrel Length: 5.2 inches
- Overall Length: 8.6 inches
- Height: 5.7 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Weight: 1.28 lbs (empty)
- Capacity: 20+1 rounds (comes with two 20-round magazines)
- Frame: Polymer
- Sights: Fixed front, adjustable rear
- MSRP: ~$850
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: At just over 1 pound unloaded, the P57 is exceptionally light for its size
- High Capacity: 20+1 capacity in a relatively compact package
- Ambidextrous Controls: Magazine release and safety are ambidextrous
- Picatinny Rail: For mounting lights or lasers
- Unique Loading System: Includes a magazine loading assist tool
Performance:
- Recoil: Minimal due to the lightweight 5.7×28mm round
- Accuracy: Good for a pistol in this class, with the long sight radius helping precision
- Reliability: Generally good with quality ammunition, though some users report occasional feeding issues with certain ammo types
- Trigger: 5.5 lb pull weight with some take-up but a clean break
Pros:
✔ Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
✔ High magazine capacity
✔ Low recoil makes it easy to shoot rapidly
✔ Affordable compared to FN’s Five-seveN
✔ Comes with two magazines
Cons:
✖ Limited ammunition selection (5.7×28mm is still niche)
✖ Ammo can be expensive compared to 9mm
✖ Some users report magazine loading difficulty
✖ Aftermarket support is limited
Conclusion:
The Kel-Tec P57 fills an interesting niche in the pistol market, offering an affordable way to get into the 5.7×28mm platform. While it may not have the refinement of FN’s offering, it provides good value for those interested in this high-velocity round.
User Experience Review
Kel-Tec P57 User Experiences
| User | Experience Level | Rating | Key Points | Pros/Cons Noted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John D. | Intermediate | 4.5/5 | “Love the lightweight design and capacity. Shoots flat and fast. Only complaint is stiff magazine springs.” |
+ Lightweight + High capacity – Hard to load magazines |
| Sarah M. | Advanced | 3/5 | “Interesting concept but ammo is too expensive for regular range use. Had two failure-to-feeds in first 100 rounds.” |
+ Unique caliber – Ammo cost – Reliability concerns |
| Mike T. | Beginner | 4/5 | “My first pistol – the low recoil makes it easy to learn on. Wish there were more holster options available.” |
+ Low recoil + Good for beginners – Limited accessories |
| Robert K. | Expert | 3.5/5 | “Decent budget alternative to FN’s offering. Trigger could be better. Accuracy is good for the price point.” |
+ Affordable 5.7 option – Mediocre trigger + Good accuracy |
| Lisa H. | Intermediate | 4/5 | “Perfect backpacking gun – light but with serious firepower. Magazine loading tool is a must-have.” |
+ Great for carry + Includes loading tool – Needs break-in period |
Overall User Sentiment
Based on user reports, the Kel-Tec P57 receives generally positive reviews for its lightweight design, high capacity, and low recoil. Common complaints include ammunition cost, magazine loading difficulty, and limited aftermarket support. The pistol seems particularly appreciated by those looking for a lightweight carry option with substantial firepower, while competitive shooters and those sensitive to ammunition costs tend to be more critical.
