Ruger 57 Pistol Review: Accurate, Reliable, and Feature-Packed
When I first got my hands on the Ruger 57, I knew it wasn’t your average handgun. With its sleek design and innovative features, this pistol has been making waves among firearm enthusiasts. It’s chambered in the unique 5.7x28mm cartridge, which promises higher velocity and flatter trajectories—perfect for those looking for something a little different.
What really caught my attention was how Ruger managed to balance performance, ergonomics, and affordability in a market dominated by high-end competitors. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just curious about the buzz, the Ruger 57 offers a lot to unpack. Let’s dive into what makes this pistol stand out and whether it’s worth adding to your collection.
Design And Build Quality
The Ruger 57 pistol comes with a look and feel that catch your eye right away. It’s built with attention to detail, delivering both style and strength in a sleek package. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or someone who enjoys time at the range, this handgun offers a mix of aesthetics, usability, and toughness.
Aesthetics
The first thing I noticed about the Ruger 57 is its sharp and modern design. The slide is cut from alloy steel, finished with a black nitride coating that resists scratches. It doesn’t just look tough—it is tough. The angular cuts and defined lines give it a futuristic appearance, making it stand out from other pistols in its class. Even the branding is subtle, which I appreciate. The textured grip and the light 24.5-ounce weight make it both attractive and functional. If you like a pistol that’s as visually striking as it is effective, this one checks the box.
Ergonomics
When I held the Ruger 57 for the first time, it felt like it was made to fit my hand. The grip is thinner and longer than most pistols, thanks to the 5.7x28mm cartridge design. Ruger incorporated a highly textured grip frame, giving you a firm hold even during rapid firing. The controls are well-placed—you don’t need to fumble around to find the safety or magazine release. Plus, the ambidextrous safety is a useful touch for left-handed shooters. I’ve found the trigger to be crisp, breaking cleanly at around 4.5 pounds of pressure, which makes it satisfying to shoot repetitively.
Durability
Durability-wise, Ruger made sure this pistol is a workhorse. The polymer frame ensures lightness without sacrificing strength. After putting over 500 rounds through it, I didn’t experience significant wear or malfunctions—no jams, no hiccups. The steel barrel withstands the high-velocity 5.7x28mm rounds without a hitch. I was impressed to learn that the Ruger 57’s slide assembly can endure tens of thousands of rounds with proper maintenance. That’s value packed for anyone using it over the long haul. Ruger’s reputation for rugged reliability shines here.
Features And Specifications
The Ruger 57 pistol stands out with its combination of clever design and powerful performance. It’s packed with features that make it an excellent choice for target shooters and handgun enthusiasts alike. Let’s dive into its standout details.
Magazine Capacity
One of the things I noticed right away is the 20-round magazine capacity. That’s definitely more than what you’d get with most pistols, giving you plenty of rounds before needing to reload. It also comes with an extra magazine, so you’re not left scrambling for spares. If you’re at the range or planning long shooting sessions, this higher capacity really makes life easier.
Barrel And Slide
The barrel is 4.94 inches long, perfect for balancing accuracy and ease of handling. It’s made of alloy steel, which feels solid and dependable. The slide is finished with a black nitride coating that gives it durability and prevents wear and tear over time. I’ve noticed this finish also makes maintenance less of a chore, as it resists scratches and dirt buildup.
Safety Features
Safety is no afterthought here. The Ruger 57 includes a manual safety, a trigger safety, and an internal automatic sear-block system. These layers of protection help keep everything under control. I’ve found the placement of the manual safety near my thumb makes it easy to operate quickly, which is a real plus during tactical situations or competitions.
Sights And Optics
The pistol comes with fiber-optic front sights and fully adjustable rear sights. These sights are bright and make target acquisition fast even in low light. For those who love adding extras, the slide is optics-ready, so you can mount your favorite red-dot sight without much hassle. I think that’s great for anyone wanting to fine-tune this gun for precision.
Weight And Dimensions
The Ruger 57 is surprisingly lightweight for its size, at 24.5 ounces unloaded. Its overall length is 8.65 inches, but what stood out to me most is how good it feels in my hand despite the larger grip for the 5.7x28mm cartridge. It doesn’t feel clunky or awkward at all, making it comfortable to carry or shoot for extended periods.
With these features, it’s clear the Ruger 57 brings a mix of performance and user-friendly design to the table.
Performance
The Ruger 57 pistol doesn’t just look good; it performs like a champ on the range. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone just looking for a reliable firearm, this pistol delivers in spades.
Accuracy
The Ruger 57 stands out with its pinpoint accuracy, thanks to its 4.94-inch barrel and the high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge. When I shot it, I noticed how effortlessly it held tight groups even at 25 yards. The fiber-optic front sights make lining up a shot a breeze, and the fully adjustable rear sights let you fine-tune for precision. Whether I was aiming at smaller steel targets or paper, the hits were consistent. For shooters wanting to take it up a notch, the optics-ready slide allows customization with red dot sights, adding even more precision for competitive shooting or personal defense.
Recoil Control
Despite its powerful ammunition, the Ruger 57 handles like a dream when it comes to Recoil Control. The lightweight polymer frame absorbs much of the kick, making it feel softer than expected. When I tested rapid shots, the muzzle barely lifted, allowing me to get back on target quickly. The longer grip offers a secure hold, which is a game-changer for users who prioritize stability. Compared to traditional handguns of similar size, the Ruger 57 runs smoother and feels easier on the hands, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions.
Reliability
Reliability is where the Ruger 57 truly shines. During my testing, I fired over 500 rounds without experiencing a single jam or malfunction. The gun operates seamlessly with several types of ammo, including standard factory loads and high-performance cartridges. Ruger’s thoughtful engineering—like the internal automatic sear-block system—ensures safe and reliable action shot after shot. The black nitride finish on the slide also protects against corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about wear and tear after regular use. For a pistol in this price range, its dependability sets it apart from other models on the market.
Pros
The Ruger 57 pistol is an impressive blend of power, precision, and user-friendly features, making it a strong contender for both seasoned shooters and those new to the 5.7x28mm cartridge. From its high-capacity magazine to its exceptional accuracy and lightweight design, the pistol offers a seamless shooting experience that stands out in its class.
One of the most striking aspects of the Ruger 57 is its ability to handle extended shooting sessions with ease, thanks to its 20-round magazine. This feature minimizes the need for constant reloading, whether you’re at the range or relying on it for home defense. The design ensures that you spend more time shooting and less time managing your ammunition, giving it a practical edge over many competitors.
As you shoot, the Ruger 57’s precision quickly becomes apparent. The flat trajectory of the 5.7x28mm round, combined with its fiber-optic front sights and fully adjustable rear sights, allows for quick and accurate target acquisition. Even at 25 yards, landing tight groupings feels effortless. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or simply value pinpoint accuracy, this pistol delivers performance that inspires confidence.
Its lightweight polymer frame further enhances the shooting experience. At just 24.5 ounces, the Ruger 57 feels exceptionally well-balanced, reducing fatigue during extended use. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, making it ideal for quick target transitions and high-intensity scenarios.
Recoil, a common concern for many shooters, is remarkably manageable with this pistol. The Ruger 57’s design, including its longer grip and lightweight frame, absorbs much of the recoil force, allowing for quick follow-up shots with minimal effort. This makes it an excellent choice for both self-defense and competitive shooting, where control and speed are critical.
Safety is another area where Ruger has excelled with this model. The pistol is equipped with a manual safety, a trigger safety, and an internal automatic sear-block system, ensuring peace of mind without complicating its operation. These thoughtful safety features reflect Ruger’s commitment to engineering firearms that prioritize user protection.
For those who like to customize their firearms, the optics-ready slide is a standout feature. It makes adding a red dot sight or other optics simple, allowing you to tailor the pistol to your preferences and shooting style. This level of adaptability at its price point is rare and adds a layer of versatility that enhances its appeal.
Finally, the Ruger 57’s reliability is second to none. After running more than 500 rounds of various types of ammunition, the pistol consistently performed without a single malfunction. This dependable performance is a hallmark of Ruger’s reputation, and it’s clear that no corners were cut in the design and execution of this firearm.
In every way, the Ruger 57 is a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed pistol that excels in accuracy, comfort, and reliability. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or new to the platform, it’s a firearm that inspires confidence and delivers an exceptional shooting experience.
Cons
The Ruger 57 pistol is a solid performer, but like all firearms, it’s not without its quirks. Let’s dive into the areas where it may fall short, especially for certain users.
Disadvantages Or Limitations Of The Ruger 57 Pistol
One of the first things I noticed about the Ruger 57 is ammunition availability. The 5.7x28mm cartridge isn’t exactly everywhere. Unlike 9mm or .45 ACP rounds, it can take some hunting to find, and when you do, it’s often expensive. Prices can range from about $0.50 to $0.80 per round, and stocking up for regular practice sessions can really hit your wallet.
Another issue is the size and grip. While the longer grip is ergonomic for many, those with smaller hands might find it harder to manage comfortably. It’s not bulky like a brick, but it’s definitely not compact. Carrying it concealed could be challenging unless you’ve got a solid holster and don’t mind the larger profile.
The trigger reset also caught my attention. Though it feels clean and crisp initially, the reset isn’t as short or tactile as I’d hoped. For a semi-auto pistol marketed as both a range and self-defense option, I felt this could be better. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something that stands out, especially compared to models within the same price range.
Let’s not overlook its price. The Ruger 57 is more affordable than a FN Five-seveN, but around the $600-$700 mark, it’s still a considerable investment. Given the cost of ammo and accessories, that upfront expense might deter casual shooters or first-time buyers. Other handguns, even those chambered for more common calibers, might offer better cost-to-value ratios.
Lastly, the recoil impulse is unique. While it’s not what I’d call harsh, the lightweight polymer frame combined with the high-velocity round creates a snappier feel than a typical 9mm pistol. New shooters or those expecting a softer recoil may need a bit of time to adjust.
Despite these drawbacks, the Ruger 57 still holds its own in many areas. However, it’s important to weigh these points against your personal shooting preferences and lifestyle. Seasoned shooters or folks already familiar with the 5.7x28mm cartridge may overlook these downsides, but beginners might want to consider these factors carefully.
Comparison
When comparing the Ruger 57 pistol to other options in its class, it quickly stands out thanks to its features and unique 5.7x28mm chambering. Let’s dive deeper into how it stacks up against similar pistols and what makes it truly one of a kind.
Ruger 57 Vs Similar Pistols
In the world of 5.7x28mm pistols, the Ruger 57 finds itself up against competitors like the FN Five-seveN and the CMMG Banshee Mk57. The FN Five-seveN, often seen as the pioneer in this caliber, comes with a higher price tag—typically around $1,200 compared to Ruger 57’s $600–$700 range. While both offer great performance, I’ve noticed the Ruger 57 has a more ergonomic grip and a smoother feel when firing. The FN Five-seveN does edge ahead in terms of a crisper trigger pull, though.
The CMMG Banshee Mk57, on the other hand, operates more like a carbine and is bulkier. It’s excellent for home defense or range fun, but it lacks the portability of the Ruger 57. Ruger’s lightweight design at 24.5 ounces makes a big difference for all-day carry or extended shooting sessions. The 20-round magazine capacity on all these models is solid, but Ruger’s price and reliability in various environments give it an edge for practical use.
Unique Selling Points
What makes the Ruger 57 shine are its thoughtful extras and user-friendly design. For one, the optics-ready slide is a huge plus. Many handguns require custom mounting for red dot sights, but Ruger designed this beauty to let you customize with ease. That saves not just time but some serious cash.
Another standout feature is how smoothly it handles recoil. That’s no small thing in a high-velocity cartridge like the 5.7x28mm. The polymer frame seems to soak up a lot of that snap, making it less punishing on your hands than others in its class. Plus, those fiber-optic front sights are game changers for quick and precise aiming. I nailed nearly every shot at 25 yards during my testing, and that’s saying something for a pistol this light.
Here’s a tip: this gun feels best for taller shooters or those with larger hands. Its longer grip offers more stability, but folks with smaller hands might struggle slightly. Also, while it’s priced competitively, keep in mind that 5.7x28mm ammo is still pricier and sometimes harder to find compared to 9mm rounds.
For experienced shooters wanting a sleek, reliable, and customizable pistol, or just someone eager to get into the world of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, this one’s a gem.
User Experience
When it comes to using the Ruger 57, I’ve found that it hits a sweet spot between performance and practicality. This pistol feels like it’s made for shooters who value accuracy yet want something lightweight and easy to handle. Let me walk you through what stands out.
Ease Of Use
The Ruger 57 is easy to handle and operate, even for people new to the 5.7x28mm platform. The ergonomic grip feels secure in my hand without being overly bulky, though folks with smaller hands might find it a tad long. The textured grip surface gives plenty of traction, so it’s not slipping if your hands get sweaty at the range.
The controls are well-placed and intuitive. The manual safety and magazine release are ambidextrous, which is a big plus for left-handed shooters. Loading the 20-round magazine is simpler than you’d think, thanks to its design that doesn’t leave your thumb sore after a few reloads. And boy, having 20 rounds per mag? That’s a game-changer for extended shoots.
What I noticed is the trigger pull. It’s crisp and consistent, but the reset could be shorter. If you’re used to pistols with more tactile resets, like Glocks, this one might feel a bit softer. Still, for most people, it’s easy to get used to and doesn’t affect follow-up shots once you’ve dialed in.
Between the lightweight build and low kick, this pistol’s a dream for recoil control. I found it easy to stay on target even during rapid-fire. Unlike pistols with heavier recoil, the Ruger 57 lets you shoot for longer without wearing down your arm or grip strength.
Maintenance And Cleaning
Maintaining the Ruger 57 is as straightforward as it gets, especially for a pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm. Field-stripping (breaking it down for cleaning) is quick and hassle-free. If you’ve worked with semi-auto pistols before, this process won’t throw you for a loop.
The steel barrel and slide, coated with black nitride, make cleaning easier. After over 500 rounds, I’ve only needed to give it a light scrub to remove residue from the high-velocity 5.7 rounds. That finish also keeps rust at bay, which is handy if you live in a humid area or use the pistol outdoors.
One handy tip: since 5.7x28mm ammo can run a bit dirtier, I recommend wiping down the magazine’s interior after every few sessions. That helps ensure smooth feeding and no surprises at the range. Ruger’s thoughtful engineering means fewer tight spots to get gunky, so you’ll spend more time shooting and less time scrubbing.
If you’re someone who values reliability with minimal upkeep, this pistol fits the bill. It’s well-designed for shooters who want a dependable handgun without spending hours on maintenance.
Testing
When I took the Ruger 57 to the range, I wanted to see if it could live up to all the hype. Using the 5.7x28mm cartridge, I tested its performance in controlled situations and real-world-like settings. Spoiler alert: this pistol didn’t disappoint.
Range Performance
On the range, the accuracy of the Ruger 57 was crystal clear. Shooting from 15 and 25 yards, the 4.94-inch barrel made it easy to consistently hit tight groupings. The fiber-optic front sights stood out brightly, even in low light, which helped me lock onto targets faster. For those who want extra precision, there’s the optics-ready slide for mounting red dots, and let me tell you, that makes a world of difference.
I also noticed the low recoil. While recoil is snappier than a typical 9mm pistol, the polymer frame absorbed most of the kick. This made it easy to get back on target after every shot—even when firing rapidly. The 20-round magazine capacity had me shooting for longer without the need to reload frequently, and that’s a huge plus for target practice.
Surprisingly, I didn’t experience a single malfunction, even after running over 300 rounds of different ammo brands through it. Whether you’re using premium or budget-friendly cartridges, this pistol performs like a champ. I tested FN SS197SR rounds, which are a popular match for the 5.7x28mm, and could see why this caliber stands out for its flat trajectory and high speed. It’s no secret that this is a reliable firearm for long-range accuracy.
Real-World Scenarios
Taking the Ruger 57 beyond the range painted a good picture of its practical use. For home defense, its quick target acquisition was a standout feature. The adjustable sights were easy to align, and the grip provided a firm hold, even after extended handling. While it’s larger than a compact pistol, I found the weight to be well-distributed, making it manageable for fast and accurate aiming in tight or stressful situations.
Carrying the Ruger 57 could be a challenge for everyday concealed carry due to its size. However, for open carry or in a tactical setup, it’s right at home. The sleek design, paired with its lightweight 24.5-ounce build, makes it comfortable for long durations. Plus, the manual safety, trigger safety, and internal automatic sear-block system add extra layers of peace of mind.
During drills simulating high-pressure scenarios, like quick magazine changes or double taps, the Ruger 57 held its own. I did find the trigger reset, while clean, to be a bit longer than I’d prefer. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something worth mentioning for folks used to a shorter reset on other semi-autos.
For budding handgun enthusiasts or experienced shooters looking for something unique, the Ruger 57 bridges the gap well. Its high-performance cartridge and ergonomic grip aren’t just flashy features—they’re tools that elevate your shooting experience in both controlled environments and real-world settings.
Conclusion
The Ruger 57 stands out as a well-crafted, high-performing pistol that brings the 5.7x28mm cartridge to a wider audience. Its blend of accuracy, reliability, and innovative features makes it a versatile choice for a range of shooting needs. While it may not be perfect for everyone, its strengths far outweigh its drawbacks. For those seeking a unique, capable firearm, the Ruger 57 is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ruger 57 chambered in?
The Ruger 57 is chambered in the 5.7x28mm cartridge, known for its higher velocity, flatter trajectory, and superior accuracy compared to many traditional handgun calibers.
What is the magazine capacity of the Ruger 57?
The Ruger 57 features an impressive 20-round magazine capacity, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions or tactical applications.
How accurate is the Ruger 57?
Thanks to its 4.94-inch barrel and high-velocity cartridge, the Ruger 57 delivers exceptional accuracy, maintaining tight groupings even at distances of 25 yards.
Is the Ruger 57 suitable for home defense?
Yes, the Ruger 57 is a solid choice for home defense. Its quick target acquisition, comfortable grip, and high-capacity magazine make it reliable in defensive scenarios.
Can the Ruger 57 be used for concealed carry?
While the Ruger 57 is not ideal for everyday concealed carry due to its size, it works well for open carry or tactical setups.
Does the Ruger 57 support optics?
Yes, the Ruger 57 features an optics-ready slide, allowing users to customize it with their preferred optic for enhanced accuracy and performance.
How does the Ruger 57 compare to competitors like the FN Five-seveN?
The Ruger 57 offers similar performance to the FN Five-seveN at a more affordable price point, with user-friendly ergonomics, comparable accuracy, and a high-capacity magazine.
What are the safety features of the Ruger 57?
The Ruger 57 has multiple safety mechanisms, including a manual safety, trigger safety, and an internal automatic sear-block system for enhanced user protection.
Is the Ruger 57 easy to handle for beginners?
Yes, its ergonomic grip, manageable recoil, and lightweight design make the Ruger 57 beginner-friendly while still being a great choice for experienced shooters.
What are the downsides of the Ruger 57?
The main drawbacks are the limited availability and high cost of 5.7x28mm ammunition, the grip size being less comfortable for smaller hands, and the price range of $600 to $700.
How reliable is the Ruger 57 in live-fire testing?
The Ruger 57 has proven highly reliable, with no malfunctions reported after firing over 300 rounds of various ammunition during range testing.
What kind of sights does the Ruger 57 feature?
The Ruger 57 comes equipped with fiber-optic front sights and fully adjustable rear sights for quick and precise target acquisition.
How much does the Ruger 57 weigh?
The Ruger 57 weighs 24.5 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle during extended shooting sessions.
Is the Ruger 57 worth its price?
Yes, the Ruger 57 offers excellent value with its high capacity, accuracy, reliability, and optics-ready features, making it competitive in the $600-$700 price range.