FN PS90 5.7x28mm 16.04″ 10rd FDE
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the FN PS90 5.7x28mm 16.04″ 10rd FDE? It's the civilian-legal, semi-automatic bullpup carbine configuration of FN Herstal's iconic P90 platform, designed from the outset to deliver a full-length barrel in an exceptionally compact package for general-purpose and defensive shooting applications. This specific model features the mandatory 16.04-inch barrel and 10-round magazine to comply with U.S. federal law, presented in a Flat Dark Earth synthetic stock.
What is the FN PS90 16.04" used for?
The FN PS90 serves as a compact, low-recoil, general-purpose carbine ideal for home defense, range training, and varmint control. Its 16.04-inch cold hammer-forged barrel fully stabilizes the high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge, making it effective for small game and target shooting out to 200 yards. The ambidextrous controls and 28-inch overall length provide exceptional maneuverability in vehicles or tight spaces where a traditional rifle like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win would be cumbersome.
How does the FN PS90 compare to a traditional rifle?
The PS90 is dramatically more compact than a conventional rifle, trading modularity for a fixed, purpose-built ergonomic design. Where a traditional carbine like the AR-15 offers near-infinite aftermarket customization, the PS90 is a sealed, integrated system that is 12 inches shorter in overall length despite having a similar barrel length. The PS90's unique top-loading, horizontal magazine and bullpup trigger linkage present a distinct manual of arms that requires dedicated practice versus the nearly universal familiarity of an AR platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The PS90 weighs 6.28 pounds (2.85 kg) unloaded and measures 28.75 inches in overall length. Its compact form is achieved by placing the action and 10-round magazine behind the trigger group, resulting in a balance point directly at the pistol grip. This configuration yields a 16.04-inch barrel in a package shorter than most 10.5-inch AR-15 pistols, with a height of 8.6 inches and a width of 2.2 inches at its widest magazine point.
Who is this NOT for?
The PS90 is not for shooters seeking a low-cost plinker, a highly modular platform, or those unwilling to invest in the proprietary 5.7x28mm cartridge. At $1,699, the initial investment is significant, and factory 5.7x28mm ammunition runs approximately $0.80 per round versus $0.50 for 5.56 NATO. The fixed, non-adjustable stock and integrated sight rail also limit customization compared to the vast aftermarket supporting platforms like the Stevens 334 bolt-action, making it a poor choice for hobbyists who enjoy continual tinkering and parts swapping.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete carbine, one 10-round translucent polymer magazine, an FN operator's manual, and a factory-supplied cable lock. The rifle ships from the factory with a pre-installed, ported muzzle brake that is permanently attached via blind pins and high-temperature silver solder to meet the 16-inch barrel requirement—a critical detail for NFA compliance. No optics, sling, or additional magazines are included, which adds roughly $200-400 to the true out-the-door cost for a functional setup.
Is the FN PS90 worth it at $1,699?
At $1,699, the PS90 is worth it for shooters who specifically value its compact bullpup layout, ambidextrous controls, and the unique ballistic profile of the 5.7x28mm round for home defense. You are paying for FN's military-grade manufacturing, including the CHF chrome-lined barrel and fully ambidextrous controls, in a legally compliant package. For a general-purpose range rifle where cost-per-round and customization are higher priorities, a quality AR-15 or a hunting rifle like the Stevens 555 series offers more practical value.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 28.75-inch overall length — 12 inches shorter than a 16-inch AR-15 with a stock, enabling exceptional close-quarters and vehicle maneuverability.
- Fully ambidextrous controls — charging handles, magazine release, and safety selector are mirrored for left or right-handed operation without modification.
- 6.28-pound unloaded weight — balances directly at the pistol grip for rapid target transitions and reduced shooter fatigue during extended sessions.
- FN cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel — provides a 20,000+ round service life and consistent 1.5-2.0 MOA accuracy with factory SS197SR ammunition.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary, permanently attached muzzle device — prevents direct suppressor mounting or muzzle device swaps without professional gunsmithing and potential NFA registration.
- High ammunition cost — factory 5.7x28mm averages $0.80/round, making sustained practice 60% more expensive than using 5.56 NATO at $0.50/round.
- Limited aftermarket support — compared to the AR-15 platform, trigger upgrades, stock options, and handguard replacements are sparse and niche.
- Fixed, non-adjustable stock — the molded synthetic thumbhole stock lacks length-of-pull or cheek riser adjustments, which can hinder optimal ergonomics for some shooters.
Key attributes
| upc | 845737019426 |
| manufacturer | FN America / FN Herstal |
| manufacturer part number | 3848950511 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 16.04" |
| caliber/gauge | 5.7 x 28 mm |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| model | PS90 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| sights | Backup Iron |
| atf type | MODERN SPORTING RIFLE |
| length | 29.1000 |
| package height | 4.85 |
| package width | 10.25 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.85 |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 optics?
- Yes, the integrated top rail is a full-length MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) spec, accepting any standard red dot, holographic, or magnified optic designed for that platform. The rail measures 10.5 inches in length, providing ample space for mounting. I recommend a low-profile sight like an Aimpoint T2 or Holosun 503 to maintain the rifle's streamlined profile.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, its 28.75-inch overall length allows it to fit in most compact or submachine gun cases designed for items under 30 inches. A case with internal dimensions of at least 32x10x6 inches will provide a secure fit with padding. I use a Savior Equipment Urban Warfare 32-inch double rifle case for transport to my range sessions.
- Can I use aftermarket 50-round P90 magazines?
- No. The civilian PS90 is designed from the factory to only accept the 10-round and legally compliant aftermarket 30-round magazines that have been permanently blocked to 10-round capacity. The internal magazine well includes a physical block preventing the insertion of unmodified, full-capacity 50-round LE/MIL magazines. Any attempt to modify this constitutes manufacture of an unregistered NFA item.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships in-stock firearms within 2-3 business days after FFL verification is complete. Transit time via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air is typically 3-5 additional business days depending on your FFL's location. You must contact your chosen FFL dealer to coordinate the transfer before completing your purchase.
- Does this work with a standard 1/2x28 threaded suppressor?
- No. The factory 16.04-inch barrel features a non-standard, proprietary muzzle device that is permanently attached via blind pins and silver solder for NFA compliance. To attach a suppressor, the factory brake must be removed by a qualified gunsmith and the barrel must be threaded, which requires cutting back beneath the 16-inch minimum unless you first file a Form 1 to manufacture an SBR.