The FN PS90: A Blend of Innovative Design and Practical Effectiveness

When considering a firearm that combines innovative design with practical effectiveness, the FN PS90 stands out as a unique and highly sought-after option. Developed by FN Herstal, a company with a long-standing legacy of producing world-class firearms for military, law enforcement, and civilian markets, the PS90 redefines what a personal defense weapon (PDW) or sporting carbine can be. For individuals seeking a compact, reliable, and high-capacity firearm for roles ranging from home defense to recreational shooting, the PS90 offers a compelling solution that addresses many common challenges faced by modern shooters.

The FN PS90: A Modern Classic Redefined

The FN PS90 is the civilian legal variant of the iconic P90, a select-fire weapon originally designed for military and law enforcement personnel requiring a compact yet powerful firearm. Its distinctive appearance and advanced engineering have garnered significant attention, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and those prioritizing maneuverability and precision. This firearm is particularly well-suited for situations where space is at a premium, such as close-quarters home defense scenarios or transportation. Its unique characteristics provide an answer to questions like "What is the best compact firearm for home protection?" or "Which carbine offers low recoil with high capacity?"

Who Can Benefit from the FN PS90?

The PS90 caters to a diverse range of users, each finding unique advantages in its design and capabilities. If you're wondering "Is the FN PS90 right for my needs?", consider the following profiles:

• Home Defense Enthusiasts: Its compact size, combined with the potent 5.7x28mm cartridge and high magazine capacity, makes it an excellent choice for defending your home. The minimal recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and easier control in stressful situations.
• Sporting and Recreational Shooters: For those who enjoy a unique shooting experience at the range, the PS90 offers exceptional accuracy, low recoil, and a distinct aesthetic. It's an engaging firearm for target practice and marksmanship development.
• Collectors and Innovators: The PS90's revolutionary bullpup design and unconventional feeding system make it a fascinating piece of firearm engineering. Collectors appreciate its historical significance and innovative features.
• Individuals Seeking a Compact Personal Defense Weapon: Whether for a bug-out bag, vehicle carry (where legally permissible), or simply as a readily accessible personal defense tool, its short overall length and lightweight profile are significant advantages.
• New Shooters or Those Sensitive to Recoil: The incredibly mild recoil of the 5.7x28mm cartridge, especially in the PS90's platform, makes it approachable for new shooters or anyone who finds traditional rifle recoil prohibitive.

The problems the FN PS90 aims to solve include the need for an effective defensive firearm that is easy to handle in confined spaces, a desire for a high-capacity option without excessive bulk, and the demand for a low-recoil weapon capable of accurate and rapid firing.

Exploring the Unique Features of the FN PS90

The PS90 isn't just another carbine; it's a testament to FN Herstal's commitment to pushing the boundaries of firearm design. Its innovative features are what truly set it apart:

• Revolutionary Bullpup Design: This is perhaps the most defining characteristic. In a bullpup firearm, the action and magazine are located behind the trigger, allowing for a much shorter overall length while maintaining a full-length barrel. For the PS90, this means a compact footprint for easy maneuverability in tight spaces like hallways or vehicle interiors, without sacrificing the ballistic performance typically associated with a longer barrel. This design also contributes to excellent balance, making the firearm feel lighter and more intuitive to point.
• The Potent 5.7x28mm Cartridge: The PS90 is chambered in FN's proprietary 5.7x28mm cartridge, a round specifically developed to offer superior performance in a compact platform. Key attributes of this cartridge include:
  • High Velocity: It travels at very high speeds, contributing to a flat trajectory and excellent penetration characteristics against various materials, while minimizing over-penetration in soft targets with certain ammunition types.
  • Low Recoil: Despite its velocity, the small projectile and efficient design result in remarkably low recoil, similar to a .22LR, making it exceptionally comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods or rapid firing.
  • Lightweight Ammunition: The cartridges are lighter than traditional pistol or rifle rounds, allowing more ammunition to be carried with less bulk.
  This combination of attributes makes the 5.7x28mm an effective round for personal defense, offering a balance of penetration and terminal ballistics, while being manageable for shooters of all experience levels.
• High-Capacity 30-Round "Smoke" Detachable Magazine: The PS90 uses a unique, horizontally mounted, top-feeding magazine that holds 30 rounds. The "smoke" designation refers to its translucent dark polymer construction, which allows users to quickly and easily see the remaining ammunition count—a critical advantage in both training and defensive situations. This generous capacity provides ample firepower, reducing the need for frequent reloads and offering peace of mind in high-stress scenarios.
• Fully Ambidextrous Controls: Recognizing the importance of versatility, FN designed the PS90 with ambidextrous operation in mind. The charging handle, safety switch, and magazine release are all accessible from either side of the firearm. This ensures comfortable and efficient operation for both right-handed and left-handed shooters, a significant ergonomic advantage often overlooked in other designs.
• FN Herstal Reliability and Durability: Built to FN's exacting standards, the PS90 inherits the company's reputation for manufacturing robust and reliable firearms. Its construction utilizes durable polymers and high-quality steel components, ensuring long-term performance and resistance to wear and tear, even under demanding conditions.
• Integrated Optic Rail: The PS90 comes with an integrated MIL-STD-1913 accessory rail (Picatinny rail), allowing for easy mounting of various optical sights, such as red dot sights or small scopes. This adaptability allows users to customize their PS90 to their preferred aiming solution, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
• Forward Empty Case Ejection: A clever design feature of the PS90 is its downward and forward ejection of spent casings. This prevents brass from flying near the shooter's face, a common issue with side-ejecting firearms, and further enhances its ambidextrous nature.

Real-World Applications and Advantages

The design and features of the FN PS90 lend themselves to several practical applications:

• Home Defense: When seconds count, the PS90's compact size and light weight allow for quick deployment and maneuverability within the confines of a home. The 5.7x28mm cartridge, particularly with certain defensive ammunition types, is known for its ability to transfer energy efficiently into a target while having a reduced risk of over-penetration through common residential building materials compared to traditional rifle rounds. This makes it a responsible and effective choice for protecting your family. Its high capacity also provides significant defensive capability.
• Recreational Shooting and Target Practice: For those who frequent the shooting range, the PS90 offers an exceptionally fun and unique experience. Its low recoil makes extended shooting sessions comfortable and enjoyable, while its inherent accuracy allows shooters to hone their skills. The distinctive appearance and operation also make it a conversation starter.
• Training and Marksmanship: The ease of handling and minimal recoil characteristic of the PS90 are invaluable for training. New shooters can build confidence quickly, while experienced shooters can practice advanced drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and follow-up shots without fighting excessive recoil.
• Survival and Prepping: For preparedness-minded individuals, the PS90's light weight, compact form factor, and potent cartridge make it a valuable asset. The ability to carry more ammunition due to the lighter cartridge weight is also a significant benefit.

Optimizing Your FN PS90 Experience

To get the most out of your FN PS90, consider these aspects:

• Ammunition Selection: While the 5.7x28mm cartridge is versatile, choosing the right ammunition for your specific needs is crucial. For recreational shooting, readily available full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are excellent. For personal defense, look for ammunition specifically designed for terminal performance in soft tissue, balancing penetration with energy transfer. Always ensure you are using commercially available, factory-loaded ammunition from reputable manufacturers.
• Optics: Enhancing your PS90 with a quality red dot sight can significantly improve target acquisition speed and accuracy. The integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy mounting of a wide range of popular red dots or holographic sights.
• Slings: A two-point sling can greatly improve carrying comfort and allow for quick transitions during training or defensive scenarios, keeping the firearm secure and accessible.
• Maintenance: Like any precision instrument, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the continued reliability and longevity of your PS90. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for disassembly and cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions About the FN PS90

Is the FN PS90 good for home defense?
Yes, the FN PS90 is an excellent choice for home defense. Its compact bullpup design allows for superior maneuverability in tight spaces, while the 5.7x28mm cartridge offers effective terminal performance with reduced risk of over-penetration compared to many rifle calibers. The low recoil and 30-round capacity contribute to ease of use and sustained defensive capability.

What caliber does the FN PS90 use?
The FN PS90 is chambered in the proprietary 5.7x28mm cartridge, developed by FN Herstal. This high-velocity, low-recoil round is distinct from traditional pistol or rifle calibers.

How does the FN PS90 compare to an AR-15?
While both are carbines, the PS90 and AR-15 are fundamentally different. The PS90 is a bullpup design, making it significantly shorter overall than most AR-15s while retaining a similar barrel length. It uses the 5.7x28mm cartridge, which has much less recoil than the AR-15's 5.56x45mm/.223 Rem, and features a unique top-feeding magazine. The AR-15 is typically more modular and has a wider range of aftermarket parts, but the PS90 offers unparalleled compactness and a distinct shooting experience with its low-recoil, high-velocity round.

Is the FN PS90 easy to shoot?
Absolutely. The FN PS90 is renowned for its ease of use. Its bullpup design contributes to excellent balance, and the 5.7x28mm cartridge produces remarkably low recoil, making it very comfortable and controllable, even during rapid firing. Its ambidextrous controls also ensure it's user-friendly for any shooter.

Where can I find an FN PS90?
The FN PS90, including models like the FN 3816101050 with its 30-round smoke detachable magazine, is available through reputable firearm retailers. For a wide selection and reliable service, consider checking availability at DEGuns.

Why Choose the FN PS90?

Choosing the FN PS90 means investing in a firearm that offers a truly unique blend of features and benefits. It’s ideal for anyone who values:

• Exceptional Compactness: Its bullpup design provides a full-length barrel in a remarkably short overall package.
• Potent, Low-Recoil Cartridge: The 5.7x28mm delivers high velocity with minimal muzzle rise, enhancing control and accuracy.
• High Magazine Capacity: A 30-round translucent magazine ensures ample firepower and quick visual checks.
• FN Herstal Reliability: Built by a world-renowned manufacturer with a legacy of quality and durability.
• Ambidextrous Design: Ensures comfortable and efficient operation for all shooters.
• Versatile Applications: Perfect for home defense, recreational shooting, and collection.

The FN PS90 is more than just a firearm; it's a statement of advanced design and practical utility. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or looking for a modern solution to personal defense, the PS90 represents a compelling and effective choice.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	FN PS90
Caliber	5.7x28mm
Magazine Capacity	30 Rounds
Magazine Type	Detachable, Smoke (Translucent)
Overall Length	Typically 26.23 inches (66.6 cm)
Barrel Length	Approximately 16.04 inches (40.7 cm)
Weight (Unloaded)	Approximately 6.28 lbs (2.85 kg)
Action	Blowback, Closed Bolt
Sights	Integrated MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail for optics
Controls	Ambidextrous
Manufacturer	FN Herstal
UPC	818513003582