The Ruger-57 is a full-size semi-automatic pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm with a 20+1 capacity and two included magazines. The slide is drilled and tapped for optics (adapter plate sold separately). 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model Name: Ruger-57 
• Caliber: 5.7x28mm 
• Action: Semi-Auto 
• Capacity: 20+1 rounds (2 magazines included) 
• Barrel Length: 4.9 inches 
• Overall Length: 8.65 inches 
• Weight: 24.5 oz (1.5 lbs) 
• Sights: Fiber optic front, windage and elevation adjustable rear 
• Grip Frame Material: Advanced glass-filled nylon 
• Finish Color: Black Nitride 
   

Detailed Features 

The through-hardened billet steel slide is black nitride finished and drilled/tapped for direct optic mounting (adapter plate required, sold separately). The alloy steel barrel is also black nitride treated for wear resistance. 
 
The Secure Action fire control uses an internal hammer with a short trigger pull. The reversible magazine release and accessible slide release accommodate different hand configurations. Takedown requires no tools and no trigger pull. A chamber inspection port provides visual confirmation of load status. 
 
The fiber optic front sight allows quick acquisition and the rear sight adjusts for both windage and elevation. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

The 5.7x28mm caliber produces low recoil relative to its velocity, which makes the Ruger-57 manageable for extended shooting sessions. The 20+1 capacity is high for a full-size pistol. The optics-ready slide and adjustable sights make it practical for competition. The compact cartridge dimensions allow a flush-fitting high-capacity magazine in a pistol that is lighter than most full-size handguns.

The Ruger-57 generates genuine enthusiasm for its design and the 5.7x28mm caliber's low recoil. The 20-round magazine capacity is a consistent selling point, and the ergonomics get positive marks across most reviews. Accuracy at range is generally well-regarded.

The recurring concerns center on the 5.7x28mm cartridge itself rather than the pistol: it costs more than 9mm, availability is more limited, and the terminal performance debate (particularly for defensive use) comes up regularly. Some users also find the overall size larger than expected for a pistol with this caliber.

Build quality comments are mixed — some owners feel the finish and materials don't match the price point compared to higher-end competitors. Overall the Ruger-57 is considered a solid pistol that is most appealing to shooters who specifically want the 5.7x28mm cartridge and the capacity advantages it enables.

I've put a few hundred rounds through my Ruger 5.7, and it’s a solid option in the 5.7 world without draining your wallet. Feels a lot like the FN 5.7 but easier on my wallet. When it comes to comfort, I’d even say the Ruger’s got a leg up—it fits nicely in hand, though the slim grip might not work for everyone. At the range, it performs well; recoil’s totally manageable, and accuracy is spot on. My main recommendation? Upgrade the trigger—the 5.7's got a longer reset and not as tactile as the FN’s. I like the fiber optic front sight for daylight, but I'd swap it for night sights as well. Also, the mag release takes some getting used to; you'll have to adjust your grip a bit. For the price, though, the Ruger 5.7 Gen 1 is a winner in terms of value and performance.