The FN Five-seveN in FDE (Flat Dark Earth) is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm with a 4.8-inch barrel, 20-round capacity, and a manual safety. It weighs 21 ounces (1.31 lbs) and has a polymer frame and steel slide. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: FN America 
• Model: Five-seveN 
• Series: FDE (Flat Dark Earth) 
• Caliber: 5.7x28mm 
• Barrel Length: 4.8 inches 
• Total Length: 8.2 inches 
• Total Height: 5.7 inches 
• Weight: 21 ounces (1.31 lbs) 
• Capacity: 20 rounds 
• Action Type: Single 
• Frame Material: Polymer 
• Slide Material: Steel 
• Grip Material: Polymer 
• Safety Type: Manual Safety 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The Five-seveN FDE shares the same dimensions and specifications as the black version, distinguished by the Flat Dark Earth finish on the polymer frame and external components. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is a bottlenecked pistol round originally developed for the FN P90 PDW program. Civilian-legal loads are available through several manufacturers. 
 
At 21 oz and 8.2 inches overall, this is a full-size pistol. The polymer frame keeps the weight down despite the 4.8-inch barrel. The single-action trigger and manual safety require the user to cock the pistol or carry it cocked-and-locked (safety on). The 20-round single-stack magazine is notably tall due to the cartridge's length. 
 
Adjustable rear sights are standard, combined with a single front dot configuration. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
The FDE finish is primarily a cosmetic choice for shooters who prefer earth tones over traditional black, without changing any functional specifications. Use cases are the same as the standard Five-seveN: range shooting, personal defense where 20-round capacity is valued, and law enforcement or duty applications where 5.7x28mm is authorized.

FDE Five-seveN discussions closely mirror those for the black version, with the addition of commentary on the FDE color. Owners of the FDE variant generally appreciate the aesthetics and the visual distinction from standard-finish firearms. The 5.7x28mm caliber's characteristics -- low recoil, high velocity, flat trajectory, 20-round capacity -- are the same points of appreciation regardless of finish.

The familiar objections appear: ammunition cost above 9mm, lower availability at local stores, and debate about defensive effectiveness versus more established calibers. FDE holster availability is sometimes noted as slightly more limited than black versions, though most universal-fit options work. The aftermarket for the Five-seveN platform is smaller than for mainstream 9mm pistols.