AR57: Fun Times with a Tiny Carbine (aka FSS Hurricane)

Published on February 4, 2023
Duration: 25:24

This guide covers the basic operation and critical safety considerations for the AR57 carbine, a unique system adapting the FN P90's 5.7x28mm magazine to an AR-15 lower. It highlights the downward ejection port and the significant safety concern regarding out-of-battery detonations. Expert insights from Ian McCollum emphasize its fun factor but caution about ammunition cost and safety.

Quick Summary

The AR57 (FSS Hurricane) adapts the FN P90's 5.7x28mm magazine to an AR-15 lower receiver. It features downward ejection through the magazine well, low recoil comparable to .22 Magnum, and high capacity. However, it lacks an out-of-battery safety mechanism, posing a significant risk of case rupture if the bolt is not fully closed during firing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 02:06Mechanical Premise and Ejection
  3. 06:50Range Testing and Performance
  4. 09:12Technical Deep Dive and Disassembly
  5. 18:29Pros, Cons, and Safety Concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AR57 (FSS Hurricane)?

The AR57 is a firearm system developed by Rhineland Arms that adapts the FN P90's 5.7x28mm magazine and cartridge to a standard AR-15 lower receiver, offering high capacity and low recoil in a compact package.

How does the AR57 eject spent casings?

Uniquely, the AR57 utilizes the AR-15's empty magazine well as its ejection port, causing spent casings to drop straight down through the receiver.

What are the main safety concerns with the AR57?

A significant safety concern is the lack of an out-of-battery safety mechanism, meaning the hammer can drop with the bolt partially open, potentially causing a case rupture and destruction of the magazine.

What are the pros and cons of the AR57?

Pros include high capacity (50 rounds), very low recoil, and a high 'fun factor.' Cons are the high cost of 5.7x28mm ammunition and physical limitations on optic length due to the top-loading magazine.

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