This Is GROSS!...But I Kinda Like It. NEW Keltec PR57 Range Review!

Published on July 4, 2025
Duration: 19:24

This review of the Kel-Tec PR57 highlights its unique features, including a fixed magazine and double-action-only hammer-fired system, chambered in 5.7x28mm. While acknowledging its potential as a range toy due to its surprising fun factor and decent accuracy, the reviewer strongly advises against it for serious EDC use, citing significant drawbacks in manual of arms, reloading efficiency, and trigger system.

Quick Summary

The Kel-Tec PR57, chambered in 5.7x28mm, is a double-action-only, hammer-fired handgun with a fixed magazine. While surprisingly fun as a range toy with decent accuracy when the trigger is staged properly, its inefficient fixed magazine, long trigger reset, and short barrel make it unsuitable for serious defensive EDC use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Range Setup
  2. 00:15Introducing the Kel-Tec PR57
  3. 00:44Initial Shooting Impressions
  4. 00:50PR57 Technical Specifications
  5. 01:04Reviewer's Disclaimer & Kel-Tec Likes
  6. 01:38Why It's Not for Serious EDC
  7. 02:00Fixed Magazine & Loading Process
  8. 02:19Drawbacks of Fixed Magazine
  9. 03:40Barrel Length & Velocity Loss
  10. 04:27Sights & Optics Mounting
  11. 04:57Trigger System Analysis (DAO)
  12. 05:24Trigger Reset & Second Strike Issues
  13. 06:13Dry Firing Limitations
  14. 06:38Trigger Impact on Semi-Auto Function
  15. 06:54Overall Downsides vs. Upsides
  16. 07:07Grip & Texture Assessment
  17. 07:26Accessory Rail
  18. 07:53Easy Field Stripping for Cleaning
  19. 08:26Ammunition Function Testing Plan
  20. 08:37Ammunition Types Tested
  21. 09:13First 10 Rounds: Critical Defense & Gold Dot
  22. 10:19Gold Dot Feeding Issue?
  23. 11:30Testing 10 Fresh Gold Dots
  24. 12:35Figuring Out the Sights & Trigger
  25. 13:10Trigger Staging for Accuracy
  26. 13:2120-Round Variety Pack Loading
  27. 14:31Shooting the Variety Pack
  28. 15:50Compensating for Ammo Weight Differences
  29. 16:04Jam & FN Defense Ammunition Concerns
  30. 17:04FN Defense Reliability Test
  31. 17:22Final Thoughts on Reliability
  32. 17:26Overall Impression: Disgusting but Likable
  33. 17:41Surprising First Outing Conclusion
  34. 18:03Recap of Practical Shortcomings
  35. 18:21Why It's Still Likable
  36. 18:38Final Verdict: Range Toy vs. EDC
  37. 18:48Viewer Engagement & Call to Action
  38. 19:03Affiliate Links & Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main drawbacks of the Kel-Tec PR57 for serious use?

The Kel-Tec PR57's fixed magazine design makes reloading and unloading inefficient. Its double-action-only trigger has a long pull and reset, increasing the risk of malfunctions. The short 4-inch barrel also reduces the effectiveness of the 5.7x28mm round.

How does the Kel-Tec PR57 handle ammunition testing?

The reviewer tested various 5.7x28mm rounds including FN V-Max, Fiocchi FMJ, Speer Gold Dot, and Federal Critical Defense. While most cycled reliably, some minor feeding issues were noted with Gold Dot, and concerns were raised about FN Defense rounds.

Is the Kel-Tec PR57 easy to clean?

Yes, the PR57 is remarkably easy to field strip for cleaning. The process involves pushing the trigger forward, sliding the upper off, and then removing the recoil spring assembly and barrel, making maintenance straightforward.

What is the trigger system like on the Kel-Tec PR57?

The PR57 features a double-action-only, hammer-fired trigger. It has a long take-up and a very long reset, which can be challenging for consistent shooting and may lead to short-stroking if not managed properly.

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