The FN P90 stands as a notable example of modern submachine gun design, combining compactness with superior firepower. Its unique characteristics and specifications have made it a popular choice among military and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Understanding the FN P90 specifications provides invaluable insights into its operational capabilities. By examining its dimensions, weight, material composition, and other critical features, one can appreciate why the P90 has garnered a significant place in the realm of military weapons.
The FN P90: An Overview
The FN P90 represents a groundbreaking design in the category of submachine guns. Developed by FN Herstal in Belgium, it was introduced in the late 1980s to meet the evolving needs of military and law enforcement agencies. Renowned for its compact size and unique appearance, the FN P90 has become a symbol of modern firearms engineering.
One of its distinguishing features is the innovative horizontal magazine, which holds 50 rounds of 5.7x28mm ammunition. This design facilitates a low profile, making the weapon easy to maneuver in confined spaces. The FN P90 is constructed primarily from high-grade polymers, contributing to its lightweight nature while retaining exceptional durability.
Not only does the FN P90 excel in mobility, but it also delivers impressive accuracy and reduced recoil. Its blowback mechanism allows for a high rate of fire, maximizing effectiveness in close-quarters combat. As such, the FN P90 has garnered widespread adoption within various elite military units and law enforcement agencies around the globe.
Key FN P90 Specifications
The FN P90 is distinct for its compact design and innovative features tailored for close-quarters engagements. Its compact size enhances maneuverability, making it ideal for various operational environments.
The dimensions of the FN P90 measure approximately 500 mm in length, with a barrel length of about 263 mm. When it comes to weight, the FN P90 is notably lightweight, weighing around 2.5 kg unloaded, which significantly contributes to its ease of handling.
Material composition plays a critical role in the FN P90’s resilience. Primarily constructed from high-strength polymers, the submachine gun offers durability while also keeping the weight manageable. This material choice not only enhances its stability during use but also facilitates rapid deployment.
With regard to its specifications, each component of the FN P90 is engineered for performance and reliability, solidifying its position as a formidable choice in the realm of submachine guns. These features are integral to understanding the FN P90 specifications and their implications for tactical operations.
Dimensions
The FN P90 features compact dimensions that enhance its maneuverability in various operational environments. It boasts an overall length of approximately 50 centimeters (19.7 inches), making it suitable for close-quarters engagements. This reduced length facilitates ease of handling and storage.
With a height of about 25 centimeters (9.8 inches) and a width of 7 centimeters (2.8 inches), the FN P90 maintains a slim profile. These dimensions contribute to the weapon’s lightweight design and allow for efficient use in constrained spaces.
The firearm’s barrel length measures around 25 centimeters (9.8 inches), optimized for performance while ensuring portability. The compact dimensions of the FN P90 make it an excellent choice for specialized military units and law enforcement agencies that require versatile and effective weaponry.
Weight
The FN P90 is renowned for its lightweight design, which significantly enhances its maneuverability in various combat situations. Weighing approximately 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds) when unloaded, this submachine gun offers a balance of portability and performance. This weight is advantageous for military personnel who may need to carry the weapon over extended periods.
The construction of the FN P90 employs advanced materials, contributing to its comparatively low weight. The combination of polymer and metal components allows for durability without unnecessary bulk. This material choice not only reduces the overall weight but also aids in minimizing recoil during firing, thereby improving accuracy.
The ergonomic design of the FN P90, coupled with its lightweight nature, provides operators with enhanced control and ease of use. Soldiers can transition quickly between different combat scenarios, making the P90 an effective tool in both urban and close-quarter engagements. The weight plays a vital role in ensuring the weapon remains functional and accessible during critical moments.
Material Composition
The FN P90 features a distinctive material composition that enhances its durability and performance. The core structure is largely manufactured from high-strength polymers, making the weapon lightweight while maintaining resilience against harsh environmental conditions. This material choice also aids in reducing the overall weight of the firearm, facilitating ease of handling and maneuverability.
The internal components of the FN P90, including its mechanisms, are crafted from high-quality steel and specialized alloys. This selection ensures that critical parts, such as the barrel and operating system, withstand the rigors associated with frequent and sustained firing. This attention to material design contributes to the P90’s reputation for reliability.
Additionally, the polymer components are designed to be resistant to corrosion and impact damage. This aspect of material composition plays a significant role in the FN P90’s longevity and performance in diverse operational scenarios. The thoughtful integration of materials fortifies the weapon’s functionality without compromising on weight or ease of use.
FN P90 Caliber and Ammunition
The FN P90 is designed to fire the 5.7×28mm cartridge, a round known for its high velocity and low recoil characteristics. This caliber was specifically developed to provide enhanced armor penetration compared to conventional submachine gun projectiles.
Key aspects of the FN P90’s ammunition include the following features:
- Standard Cartridge: The P90 primarily utilizes the 5.7×28mm SS190, developed for military use.
- Muzzle Velocity: The muzzle velocity of this cartridge can reach approximately 715 meters per second (2,346 feet per second), contributing to its effectiveness in various engagements.
The design of the 5.7×28mm cartridge allows for a lightweight projectile, facilitating a high rate of fire without significantly increasing the weapon’s weight. This integration of caliber and design in the FN P90 showcases its efficiency and operational adaptability in tactical scenarios.
Standard Cartridge
The FN P90 is primarily chambered for the 5.7×28mm cartridge, a unique round designed to provide high velocity and low recoil. This cartridge was developed by FN Herstal to optimize the performance of firearms like the P90, resulting in effective terminal ballistics.
The 5.7×28mm cartridge features a lightweight bullet which enables greater muzzle velocity, averaging approximately 2,350 feet per second. This characteristic allows the FN P90 to maintain accuracy and performance even at extended ranges, enhancing its reputation as a formidable submachine gun.
Another significant aspect of the standard cartridge is its design, featuring a bottleneck casing that aids in reliable feeding and ejection. This design allows for effective penetration against body armor, making the FN P90 suitable for various tactical applications.
Overall, the choice of the 5.7×28mm cartridge greatly influences the FN P90 specifications, ensuring it meets the demanding requirements of modern military and law enforcement engagements.
Muzzle Velocity
Muzzle velocity refers to the speed at which a projectile exits the barrel of a firearm. In the context of the FN P90, this measurement is crucial for understanding its ballistic performance and overall effectiveness as a submachine gun.
The FN P90 is designed to fire the 5.7x28mm cartridge, achieving a muzzle velocity of approximately 2,350 feet per second (715 meters per second). This high velocity enhances the bullet’s accuracy and penetration capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of tactical applications.
Furthermore, the elevated muzzle velocity contributes to reduced bullet drop over distance, allowing for more precise targeting at greater ranges. The unique design of the P90, including its longer barrel relative to its compact size, maximizes this velocity, setting it apart from other submachine guns in its class.
Operating Mechanism of the FN P90
The FN P90 operates on a blowback system, distinguishing it within the submachine gun category. This mechanism utilizes the energy generated by the fired cartridge to cycle the action, delivering a high rate of fire while maintaining moderate recoil. The system is designed for reliability, allowing for consistent functioning in various environments.
In terms of rate of fire, the FN P90 boasts an impressive capability of approximately 900 rounds per minute. This rapid firing rate provides tactical advantages, especially in close-quarters combat scenarios. The efficiency of the blowback system is a key contributor to this performance, ensuring seamless operation without excessive complexity.
The FN P90 features a closed bolt design, which enhances accuracy by providing greater stability during firing. This design allows for better control of each shot, resulting in improved precision compared to traditional open bolt systems. Collectively, these elements underscore the effectiveness of the FN P90’s operating mechanism, establishing it as a formidable choice in the realm of submachine guns.
Blowback System
The FN P90 operates using a blowback system, a type of mechanism that allows the weapon to function through the force generated by the fired cartridge. In this design, the force of the expanding gases pushes the bolt backward to cycle the weapon, eject spent casings, and chamber a new round. This system is efficient for submachine guns, providing rapid firing capabilities with low recoil.
This type of operation is characterized by its simplicity and reliability. The FN P90’s blowback action reduces the number of moving parts, thus decreasing potential malfunctions. This makes the weapon suitable for various combat scenarios, where reliability is crucial.
The blowback mechanism also contributes to the FN P90’s high rate of fire, allowing users to maintain effective suppressive fire during engagements. As the bolt moves backward, it re-uses the energy from the previous shot, ensuring seamless operation in succession. This feature ensures that the FN P90 remains a formidable choice in the submachine gun category.
Rate of Fire
The rate of fire for the FN P90 is an impressive characteristic that distinguishes it within the submachine gun category. Designed to provide high firepower in a compact platform, the FN P90 achieves a cyclic rate of fire of approximately 900 rounds per minute. This rapid firing capability ensures that the operator can engage multiple targets swiftly and efficiently.
This high rate of fire is made possible by the blowback operating system integrated into the FN P90’s design. Furthermore, the weapon’s unique bullpup configuration contributes to its overall balance and controllability during sustained firing, allowing for remarkable accuracy even at high speeds.
In operational contexts, the FN P90’s rapid rate of fire can be particularly advantageous in close-quarters combat scenarios where quick responsiveness is vital. The combination of this high rate and effective ammunition makes the FN P90 a formidable option among modern submachine guns.
FN P90 Magazine and Feeding System
The FN P90 utilizes a unique magazine and feeding system that significantly enhances its operational efficiency. This submachine gun incorporates a horizontal magazine design, allowing for a compact profile. The magazine holds 50 rounds of 5.7x28mm ammunition, enabling sustained fire in engagement scenarios.
The magazine is positioned above the barrel, which contributes to the P90’s balanced weight distribution and reduces overall length. This layout supports ambidextrous use, as both left- and right-handed shooters can manipulate the weapon with ease. The polymer construction of the magazine ensures durability while keeping the overall weight low.
A noteworthy feature of the FN P90’s feeding system is its ability to utilize both the standard 50-round magazine and a compact 30-round alternative. This versatility accommodates various tactical situations, providing operators with options based on mission demands. Reliability is further enhanced by the smooth feeding mechanism that minimizes jams and misfires, reinforcing the FN P90’s reputation within the realm of submachine guns.
Ergonomics of the FN P90
The FN P90 is renowned for its user-centric design, which enhances the overall shooting experience. Its unique bullpup configuration allows for a compact form while maintaining a full-length barrel, providing excellent balance and maneuverability. This design promotes quick target acquisition, essential in high-stress situations.
The FN P90 features ambidextrous controls, enabling ease of use for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. This adaptability ensures that operators can manipulate the firearm efficiently without needing to adjust their grip or position. The stock is designed for a comfortable hold, promoting a natural shooting posture.
Another significant ergonomic aspect is the integral Picatinny rail, which allows for easy attachment of various accessories such as optics and grips. This enhances customization options, catering to the specific needs and preferences of users. The overall feel of the FN P90 contributes to reduced fatigue during extended use, making it an efficient tool in various operational environments.
FN P90 Sight and Targeting Options
The FN P90 is equipped with several advanced sighting systems and targeting options that enhance its operational effectiveness. Designed for close-quarters combat, the weapon provides shooters with intuitive aiming capabilities, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
One significant feature is the integrated reflex sight, which simplifies aiming by providing a wide field of view. In addition, the sight is adjustable for windage and elevation, facilitating precision shooting across varying distances. The design also allows for mounting additional optical devices or night vision scopes, further expanding its versatility.
The FN P90’s low-profile configuration contributes to its ergonomic design, ensuring that the sight remains unobtrusive and easy to operate. Users can quickly transition from aiming to shooting without compromising their grip or stance.
For tactical scenarios, shooters often utilize the following options:
- Standard reflex sight with adjustable settings.
- Compatibility with a range of optical attachments.
- Enhanced night vision capabilities for low-light conditions.
These features collectively bolster the FN P90’s effectiveness in diverse combat situations, making it a preferred choice among military and law enforcement entities.
Performance Metrics of the FN P90
The FN P90 is renowned for its exceptional performance metrics that cater to the demands of modern tactical applications. Notably, it achieves a cyclic rate of fire between 900 to 1,100 rounds per minute, facilitating rapid engagements in combat scenarios. This characteristic allows operators to deliver sustained fire while maintaining control over accuracy.
In terms of effective range, the FN P90 excels with a striking capability of up to 200 meters, underscoring its versatility in both close-quarters and moderate-distance engagements. The integrated optical sights enhance targeting accuracy, further amplifying the weapon’s performance metrics.
The FN P90 also exhibits manageable recoil due to its unique design and the use of lower-recoil 5.7×28mm ammunition. This reduces the fatigue experienced by the user, enabling prolonged use without compromising precision. Such metrics are critical for operators in high-pressure environments, affirming the FN P90’s reputation in the submachine gun category.
Comparison of FN P90 with Other Submachine Guns
The FN P90 is often compared with other notable submachine guns such as the Heckler & Koch MP5 and the Uzi. Each firearm has distinct specifications that cater to different operational needs. The P90’s compact bullpup design offers superior maneuverability, making it ideal for close-quarters combat.
In contrast, the MP5, with its more traditional layout, provides a balance between size and handling. The MP5’s accuracy and modularity have made it a favorite among law enforcement agencies worldwide, though its overall length is greater than that of the P90.
The Uzi, known for its simple design and robust construction, showcases a different operational philosophy. While it is heavier and bulkier, the Uzi has earned acclaim for ease of maintenance and reliability in harsh environments. Each of these submachine guns presents unique advantages, highlighting the FN P90’s innovative approach in the realm of modern firearms.
The FN P90 stands as a significant advancement in the realm of submachine guns, embodying unique specifications tailored for modern combat. Its innovative design and exceptional performance set a high standard for versatility and operational efficiency.
Understanding the FN P90 specifications not only enhances knowledge of military weapons but also demonstrates the balance of compactness, firepower, and user-centric ergonomics in contemporary firearms. This makes it a noteworthy choice for professionals in various operational theaters.