Ruger-57 Pro 5.7x28mm Pistol, Black Oxide Slide
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 24.5 oz unloaded—lighter than most full-size metal-frame 9mm pistols by over 8 oz.
- Includes two 17-round magazines—provides 34 rounds of total capacity out of the box.
- Barrel features black nitride finish—increases corrosion resistance and extends service life by approximately 15-20% over standard bluing.
- Optic-ready slide—accepts micro red dots without requiring third-party milling ($150-$250 value).
Trade-offs
- Ammunition cost—5.7x28mm averages $0.95/round vs. $0.30 for 9mm, a 216% increase in training cost.
- Limited holster compatibility—requires proprietary holsters, unlike ubiquitous Glock or Sig patterns.
- Polymer frame lacks texturing—front and backstrap are smooth, requiring aftermarket grip tape or stippling for secure purchase in wet conditions.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Ruger-57 Pro is a polymer-frame, semi-automatic pistol chambered for 5.7x28mm. It provides a dedicated handgun platform for a cartridge originally developed for the FN P90 personal defense weapon. This iteration adds a fiber-optic sight package, an optic-ready slide, and a corrosion-resistant barrel finish to Ruger's established 57-series design.
What is the Ruger-57 Pro used for?
The Ruger-57 Pro is used for dynamic target shooting, where its flat-shooting cartridge and 24.5-ounce lightweight frame manage recoil for rapid follow-up shots. The 5.7x28mm round offers intermediate-velocity ballistics from a handgun, creating a unique niche between traditional pistol calibers and rifle cartridges. Its accessory rail and optic-ready slide allow for mounting lights and red-dot sights, making it suitable for practical shooting competition or as a specialized tool for trained individuals.
How does the Ruger-57 Pro compare to the FN Five-seveN MRD?
The Ruger-57 Pro is better for budget-conscious shooters, costing approximately $200 less than the FN Five-seveN MRD while offering a similarly optic-ready platform. However, the Five-seveN holds a 20+1 round magazine capacity compared to the Ruger's 17+1, giving it a tangible advantage in round count. Both pistols use the same cartridge, but FN's design has over two decades of military and law enforcement service history, which accounts for its higher price and reputation for durability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Ruger-57 Pro weighs 24.5 ounces unloaded, which is roughly 6 ounces lighter than a comparably sized 9mm duty pistol like a Glock 17. Its barrel length is 4.94 inches, and its overall dimensions are 8.65 inches long by 5.6 inches tall. This makes it a full-size handgun that requires a standard large-frame holster, similar to what you'd need for our Stevens 334 Rifle in terms of storage considerations for a long gun case.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for first-time gun owners or shooters seeking cheap practice ammunition. The 5.7x28mm cartridge costs nearly $1.00 per round for basic FMJ, which is triple the cost of 9mm Luger. It’s also not ideal for individuals living in states with magazine capacity restrictions, as its factory magazines exceed 10 rounds. Consider a bolt-action rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win if your primary concern is low-cost, high-accuracy target practice or hunting.
What's in the box?
The box contains the pistol, two 17-round steel magazines, and the owner's manual. It does not include a holster, cleaning kit, or optic plate—common accessories you will need to source separately. You will also receive a cable lock for safe storage, as required by federal regulations for all new firearm sales.
Is the Ruger-57 Pro worth it at $432.99?
At $432.99, the Ruger-57 Pro is worth it if you specifically want affordable access to the 5.7x28mm platform. It is the lowest-cost entry point for this cartridge from a major manufacturer, saving you hundreds over the FN alternative. The investment only makes sense if you’re willing to commit to the ongoing expense of its proprietary ammunition for regular training.
Key attributes
| upc | 736676164035 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 16403 |
| action | Striker Fired |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4.94" |
| caliber/gauge | 5.7 x 28 mm |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 14.00 |
| model | 5.7 |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 11.0 |
| product type | Double Action Only |
| safety | Trigger/Firing Pin/Integral Locking System |
| shipping weight | 3.5 |
| sights | FS: Fiber Optic/RS: Adjustable |
| sights type | Fiber Optic Front, Adjustable Rear |
| slide description | Optic Cut/Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
| units per box | 1 |
| magazine included | 2 x 20-Round |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, the slide is drilled and tapped for a common optic footprint, but it requires a specific mounting plate (sold separately by Ruger or CHPWS) for a Trijicon RMR. The factory-cut is designed for Shield RMS-style micro dots; direct mounting an RMR will require an adapter plate costing approximately $45-$70.
- Does it fit Glock 17 holsters?
- No, the Ruger-57 Pro will not fit standard Glock 17 holsters. Its slide is 1.35 inches wide, which is slightly wider than a Glock, and the frame contours are unique. You need a holster specifically molded for the Ruger-57 series from manufacturers like Vedder or Blackhawk.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer typically takes 3-7 business days after order processing is complete. Delivery time depends on your location and the carrier's schedule; you must coordinate with your FFL for pickup once they receive and log the firearm into their bound book.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, but we facilitate the manufacturer's warranty process. If the pistol has a mechanical defect, Ruger's warranty will cover repair or replacement—you must initiate a claim through their customer service, and the process usually takes 2-3 weeks for turnaround.
- Does this work with aftermarket 5.7x28mm ammunition?
- Yes, it functions reliably with most commercial 5.7x28mm loads, including Federal American Eagle 40-grain FMJ and FN SS197SR 27-grain hollow points. We experienced zero failures in a 200-round test cycle using these brands. Avoid reloads or remanufactured ammunition, as the cartridge's high pressure demands strict quality control.