The Disappointing FN P90

Published on November 4, 2018
Duration: 13:46

This guide details the field stripping process for the FN P90, as demonstrated by Chris Bartocci, a former forensic firearms examiner. It also covers his critical analysis of the P90's reliability issues, particularly concerning ammunition compatibility and potential malfunctions like failures to feed. Bartocci's extensive experience in firearms examination provides a high level of authority to this technical breakdown.

Quick Summary

Chris Bartocci, a former forensic firearms examiner, critically analyzes the FN P90, highlighting significant reliability issues like failures to feed, potentially linked to ammunition. He details the P90's unique bullpup design, 50-round magazine mechanism, and the terminal ballistics limitations of the 5.7x28mm round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and NATO PDW Program
  2. 00:16Caliber Comparison (5.7x28mm vs 4.6x30mm)
  3. 00:43Terminal Performance Critique
  4. 02:24NATO Trials and Adoption
  5. 03:04Design and Magazine Mechanism
  6. 04:35Controls and Ergonomics
  7. 06:27Disassembly and Internals
  8. 09:43Range Testing and Reliability Issues
  9. 10:27Ammunition Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability issues with the FN P90?

The FN P90 has demonstrated significant reliability issues, primarily failures to feed (FTF), observed across multiple magazines during testing. These malfunctions can prevent sustained firing and may be linked to ammunition quality or specific firearm tolerances.

How does the 5.7x28mm round perform in terms of terminal ballistics?

While the 5.7x28mm round can penetrate body armor, it lacks sufficient mass and velocity after penetration to cause significant tissue damage, limiting its overall lethality compared to larger caliber rounds.

What is the unique feature of the FN P90's magazine?

The FN P90 uses a distinctive 50-round translucent magazine that employs a circular feed ramp. This mechanism rotates the rounds 90 degrees as they are fed into the chamber, a complex system that can be a source of feeding malfunctions.

Who is Chris Bartocci and what is his expertise on the FN P90?

Chris Bartocci is a former forensic firearms examiner with extensive knowledge of firearms mechanics and NATO procurement history. His technical disassembly skills and critical analysis provide a high level of authority when discussing the P90's performance and reliability.

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