PSA 5.7 Rock Review: Expert Analysis and Insights

PSA 5.7 Rock Review: Expert Analysis and Insights

When it comes to the world of handguns chambered in the powerful 5.7x28mm round, the PSA 5.7 Rock has been making quite a splash. As a full-sized, striker-fired, polymer-framed pistol, it offers shooters an impressive blend of performance and ergonomics. In this article, we'll explore what makes the PSA 5.7 Rock stand out in the crowded firearm market.

If you've been considering a new 5.7 handgun, it's worth taking a closer look at the PSA 57 Rock. With its smooth shooting, ergonomic design, and impressive specifications like a 23-round magazine capacity, this pistol is quickly becoming a popular choice among shooting enthusiasts. However, it's essential to understand both the pros and cons before making a decision. As you read further, you'll gain a better understanding of how the PSA 5.7 Rock performs and whether it's the right firearm for your needs.

Overview of PSA 5.7 Rock

In 2021, Palmetto State Armory (PSA) introduced their newest handgun, the PSA 5.7 Rock. This full-size, striker-fired, polymer-frame pistol is chambered in the fast and flat-shooting 5.7x28mm FN cartridge. You'll find that the pistol aims to combine performance, affordability, and style.

The PSA 5.7 Rock comes with a 5.2-inch barrel and has a 23-round magazine capacity. At 25 oz, the handgun is reasonably lightweight. A notable feature of the pistol is its ergonomic design aimed at providing a comfortable and secure grip.

One potential drawback of the PSA 57 Rock is the cost of its ammunition. The 5.7x28mm rounds are generally more expensive compared to other popular calibers like 9mm. Nevertheless, this unique caliber provides specific advantages, like low recoil and excellent accuracy.

The PSA Rock 5.7 has received high praises for its smooth shooting capabilities and ergonomics. So, if you are in search of a reliable and affordable 5.7 handgun, the PSA 5.7 Rock is one option to consider seriously.

Design and Ergonomics

Palmetto State Armory Reviews

Grip and Controls

The PSA 5.7 Rock boasts impressive ergonomics, with a comfortable grip that fits well in your hand. The grip texture is designed to provide a secure hold, ensuring that the pistol stays in your hand during recoil. Texturing on the grip frame adds to this secure feel, alongside a prominent beaver tail to protect your hand from slide bite. This beaver tail allows for a low bore axis, which improves control and accuracy, especially during rapid fire.

The controls on the PSA 5.7 Rock are easily accessible and placed in intuitive locations. This means you won't have to fumble around to find the controls when you need them. The slide release, magazine release, and any necessary safety features are all easily within reach, allowing for a seamless operation experience.

Weight and Balance

Weighing in at 25 oz, the PSA 5.7 Rock is light enough to be carried comfortably but still maintains enough heft to help manage recoil effectively. Combined with its ergonomic design and low bore axis, the weight and balance of this pistol make it a pleasure to shoot. The overall stability will enhance your shooting experience, providing an optimal blend of comfort and performance.

With its smart design and ergonomic features, the PSA 5.7 Rock presents an excellent option for those looking to add a 5.7x28mm pistol to their arsenal. The comfortable grip and easily accessible controls, along with its weight and balance, ensure a seamless and enjoyable shooting experience.

Barrel, Slide and Frame

Material and Finish

The PSA 5.7 Rock features a carbon steel fluted barrel which provides a combination of durability and efficient heat dissipation. The barrel length is 5.2 inches, which ensures a high level of accuracy. For those looking for a more customized appearance, a threaded barrel option is available.

The slide of the PSA 5.7 Rock is made from 416 stainless steel which offers a good balance between strength and corrosion resistance. It is finished with a QPQ (Quench Polish Quench) treatment which further enhances its durability and resistance to wear.

Slide Serrations

The PSA 5.7 Rock's slide features slide milling, ensuring a positive grip when manipulating the slide. These serrations are designed to provide a reliable grip under various conditions.

While the PSA 5.7 Rock does share some similarities with other handguns like the Archon Type B, its carbon steel fluted barrel, 416 stainless steel slide, and QPQ finish make it a unique offering in the 5.7x28mm platform.

When using your PSA 5.7 Rock, you can be confident in its durable materials, well-crafted finish, and functional slide serrations for efficient operation.

 

Ammo and Magazines 


5.7x28mm Ammo

When it comes to 5.7x28mm ammunition, the PSA 5.7 Rock is designed to handle this relatively niche, high-velocity round. While the available ammo can be more expensive than traditional 9mm or .45 ACP, its performance offers advantages such as minimal recoil and impressive terminal ballistics. Be prepared to invest more in ammunition for the Rock 5.7, but as a trade-off, you'll experience the unique benefits of this caliber.

Magazines

The PSA 5.7 Rock uses standard-capacity magazines, with a capacity of 23 rounds. This provides ample firepower for both range sessions and personal defense scenarios. These 5.7 Rock double-stack magazines ensure that you have enough ammunition on hand when you need it most.


Trigger and Safety Features

Striker-Fired System

The PSA 5.7 Rock is a striker-fired pistol, which means it utilizes a striker mechanism instead of a traditional hammer. This system is known for providing a consistent trigger pull and a faster lock time, which can result in better accuracy. You can appreciate the simplicity and reliability of this system, as it has fewer parts and is easier to maintain compared to a hammer-fired system.

Trigger Feel

One of the essential aspects of any handgun is the trigger feel. With the PSA 5.7 Rock, you can expect a smooth single-action trigger mechanism that offers a clean and crisp break. This allows you to have better control over your shots, contributing to improved accuracy and consistency. Furthermore, the trigger is designed with a short reset, enabling you to fire quick follow-up shots with ease.

Safety Mechanism

When it comes to safety, the PSA 5.7 Rock incorporates both trigger and striker safeties. The trigger safety is a common feature in striker-fired pistols, ensuring that the gun will not fire unless the trigger is deliberately pulled. The striker safety, on the other hand, prevents the striker from moving forward and firing the round unless the trigger is fully depressed. These combined safety features provide you with the confidence that your pistol will only discharge when you intend it to, reducing the likelihood of accidental discharges.

Overall, the trigger and safety features of the PSA 5.7 Rock contribute to a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience. Its striker-fired system, smooth trigger feel, and multiple safety mechanisms make it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice handgun enthusiasts.

Sights, Optics and Accessory Rails

Sights

The PSA 5.7 Rock comes with standard iron sights that are easy to use and provide a clear sight picture. These sights will serve you well for basic usage and target practice. If you would like to upgrade your sights for better visibility or low light conditions, the PSA 5.7 Rock is compatible with Glock-compatible sights, giving you numerous options for aftermarket sights, such as night sights for improved low light performance.

Optics Compatibility

In case you wish to install a red dot sight on your PSA 5.7 Rock, you have the option to choose an optics-ready version. This version includes a pre-cut slide and mounting plates, allowing you to effortlessly mount a variety of red dot sights on the pistol. This feature increases the versatility of the weapon and makes shooting more enjoyable for those who prefer using red dots over iron sights.

Accessory Rails

Your PSA 5.7 Rock features a Picatinny accessory rail beneath the barrel, which allows you to easily attach accessories such as lights, lasers, or even suppressors with the right adapter. The Picatinny rail is a standard rail system providing compatibility with a wide range of accessories to match your preferences and shooting needs. This rail system offers you the opportunity to customize your pistol for various applications or scenarios while maintaining functionality and ease of use.

Performance and Handling

Accuracy

The PSA 5.7 Rock is known for its accurate performance on the range. With its 5.2" barrel length, featuring a 1/9" twist rate1, you can expect consistent shot placement and tight groupings. The 5.7x28mm caliber not only offers a flat trajectory but also allows for minimal bullet drop at longer distances. As you put the pistol to the test, you'll appreciate its precision and the confidence it instills during your shooting sessions.

Recoil

One of the key advantages of the PSA 5.7 Rock is its minimal recoil2. Due to the nature of the 5.7x28mm caliber, shooting this handgun is a relatively smooth experience. The manageable recoil means that you can maintain better control, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. This feature not only enhances your range experience but also makes the pistol more enjoyable to shoot for extended sessions.

Range Experience

When you take your PSA 5.7 Rock to the range, you'll immediately notice its ergonomic design and comfortable fit3. The full-sized polymer frame, combined with its 25 oz weight, provides a stable platform for shooting. Additionally, the high-capacity magazine with 23 rounds helps ensure that you can focus on your shooting skills without frequently stopping to reload4.

Despite its many positives, it's important to note that the 5.7x28mm ammunition can be expensive and louder than other calibers2. You might have to account for the increased cost and noise levels during your range sessions. However, the overall performance and handling of the PSA 5.7 Rock make it a worthwhile investment for shooters seeking a reliable and accurate handgun in the unique 5.7x28mm caliber.

Footnotes
  1. Handgun specs ↩
  2. Minimal recoil - pros and cons ↩ ↩2
  3. Hand-on experience review ↩
  4. Magazine capacity ↩

Comparisons with Other 5.7 Pistols

FN Five-Seven

When comparing the PSA 5.7 Rock to the popular FN Five-Seven, there are several differences to consider. The FN Five-Seven is produced by Fabrique Nationale Herstal, a reputable firearms manufacturer known for their quality and reliability. The FN 5.7 pistol boasts a slim, lightweight design with ergonomic features that contribute to its popularity among gun enthusiasts. While both pistols use the powerful 5.7x28mm round, FN's Five-Seven has a 20-round capacity, which is slightly less than the PSA 5.7 Rock's 23-round magazine.

Some key features of the FN Five-Seven include:

  • A polymer frame and slide cover
  • A 4.8-inch barrel
  • Low recoil
  • Ambidextrous safety switch

The PSA 5.7 Rock, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option for those interested in owning a pistol chambered in the 5.7x28mm round. Offering a few additional features, such as an optics-ready version, the Rock also has a 23-round capacity.

Ruger 5.7

Another comparable 5.7 pistol is the Ruger-57, which also fires the 5.7x28mm round. While the Ruger 5.7 pistol has slightly different ergonomics compared to the PSA 5.7 Rock, both options offer a comfortable shooting experience.

Key features of the Ruger-57 include:

  • A fiber optic front sight
  • A 4.94-inch barrel
  • A 20-round capacity

The PSA 5.7 Rock and Ruger 5.7 share similarities in their designs and shooting performance but may differ in terms of additional features and price. When choosing between these two pistols, consider your personal preferences, intended use, and budget.

Customization and Compatibilities
Threaded Barrel for Suppressors

The PSA 5.7 Rock offers customization in terms of a threaded barrel. This particular feature allows you to attach suppressors to your handgun easily. By adding a suppressor, you can significantly reduce the noise levels when firing your pistol, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize stealth and reduced noise pollution. Remember to check and comply with local laws and regulations concerning suppressor usage.

416 Steel Slide Professional Milling

The quality of the materials used in the PSA 5.7 Rock is impressive, as it features a durable 416 steel slide. This high-quality steel ensures longevity and reliability while providing a professional milling job. With this steel slide, you can expect your pistol to withstand the toughest conditions and maintain its performance over time.

Furthermore, the slide milling in the PSA 5.7 Rock grants you the ability to mount various optics, such as red dot sights, to enhance your accuracy and target acquisition capabilities. As you customize your handgun, remember to choose compatible gear and follow proper installation guidelines to ensure the best possible performance.

By taking advantage of these available customizations and compatibility options, you can craft a unique and personalized experience with your PSA 5.7 Rock pistol. This will allow you to enjoy the advantages of a threaded barrel and a durable 416 steel slide, while also exploring the benefits of specific accessories that improve your shooting experience.

Cost Considerations
Affordability

When considering the PSA 5.7 Rock, one of the primary factors to keep in mind is affordability. While this handgun is chambered in the impressive 5.7x28mm cartridge, it comes at a more affordable price of around $499 compared to other options like the FN Five-Seven pistol. This attractive price point might entice you into exploring the world of 5.7x28mm firearms.

However, there are other costs to consider beyond the initial purchase price of the pistol. For example:

  • Ammunition: While the 5.7x28mm round offers significant advantages like high capacity and minimal recoil, the downside is that it can be quite expensive. This means that you can expect to pay more for ammo compared to other popular calibers.
Reasonably Priced

Despite these potential drawbacks, the PSA 5.7 Rock remains a reasonably priced option within the 5.7 handgun market. Its lower price compared to competitors can help offset the higher cost of ammunition.

In addition to the attractive base price, the PSA 5.7 Rock also comes with notable features including good ergonomics and an optics-ready version, which can make the value proposition even more enticing.

Remember when purchasing a handgun, it's crucial to weigh all the cost factors, including the initial investment and the ongoing costs of ammunition and maintenance. While the PSA 5.7 Rock might not be the cheapest option, it offers a solid balance of performance and affordability in the 5.7 pistol market.

Pros and Cons
Pros

The PSA 5.7 Rock offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for handgun enthusiasts. One of its main selling points is its high capacity, allowing you to carry more rounds than many other handguns. This can be especially useful in self-defense or competitive shooting situations.

Another significant benefit is the minimal recoil, which helps make the PSA 5.7 Rock easier to control during rapid fire. Additionally, the gun features a delayed blowback mechanism and a high bore axis, which increase mechanical accuracy and tame muzzle flip.

If you're interested in adding an optic to your handgun, the PSA 5.7 Rock also offers an optics-ready version, providing greater versatility and customization options for your shooting needs.

Cons

Despite its strengths, the PSA 5.7 Rock does have some drawbacks. One of the most notable is that it can be loud, which may be a concern for those with sensitive ears or who engage in regular indoor shooting.

Another significant downside is the cost of ammunition. The specialized 5.7x28mm rounds can be more expensive than other common handgun calibers, making regular practice and training potentially costly for you.

In summary, the PSA 5.7 Rock offers some notable advantages, such as high capacity, minimal recoil, and an available optics-ready version. However, the disadvantages of loudness and expensive ammunition might be factors to consider before deciding if this handgun is right for you.

Reliability and Usage
Self-Defense and Duty Weapon

The PSA 5.7 Rock is a full-size polymer frame pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm, which has garnered appreciation for its reliability and performance in various scenarios. When it comes to self-defense and duty weapons, you want a firearm that's dependable and effective. The 5.7 Rock's high capacity and minimal recoil make it an excellent option for these purposes.

The specs on this full-size pistol, including the caliber, optics-ready version, and striker-fired design, further add to its appeal as a duty weapon. Keep in mind that the 5.7x28mm ammunition can be loud and more costly than other options, so be prepared for that when considering this firearm for self-defense or duty use.

Sport and Range Shooting

For those interested in sport and range shooting, the PSA 5.7 Rock offers a smooth shooting experience with an ergonomic design. Combined with the low recoil of the 5.7x28mm round, this ensures that you can enjoy extended periods at the range without fatigue or discomfort.

Although the cost of 5.7x28mm ammo can be higher compared to other calibers, the fun factor and unique performance may make it worthwhile. Overall, the PSA 5.7 Rock is a reliable firearm that can confidently and effectively be used for various tasks, whether it's self-defense, duty purposes, or sport and range shooting.

Final Verdict

When considering the PSA 5.7 Rock, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. As a high-capacity handgun with minimal recoil, the PSA 5.7 Rock offers several advantages. If you prioritize a smooth shooting experience, you'll appreciate its performance on the range.

However, the 5.7 Rock is known to be loud and utilizes expensive ammunition. This factor may be a drawback for some shooters, especially those on a tight budget or looking for a more discreet handgun. The cost of the ammo could discourage frequent practice or training sessions.

Another key aspect to consider is the gun's ergonomics. The PSA 5.7 Rock has a comfortable and ergonomic design, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions or all-day carry. The 5.7x28mm caliber allows for flat-shooting, providing a significant advantage in accuracy and follow-up shots.

The PSA 5.7 Rock is also available in an optics-ready version, offering flexibility when it comes to customization and targeting preferences. This feature caters to shooters who prefer using red dot sights and personalizing their handgun's performance.

In conclusion, while the 5.7 Rock has undeniable advantages like high capacity and minimal recoil, its loudness and expensive ammunition could be deterrents for certain shooters. Assess your specific preferences and values when deciding if the PSA 5.7 Rock is the right handgun for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common issues with the PSA 5.7 Rock?

The main concerns with the PSA 5.7 Rock are the loudness of the firearm and the expensive ammunition. 5.7x28mm ammunition is generally pricier than other common calibers. Besides these factors, the pistol offers high capacity and minimal recoil, making it appealing to many shooters source.

How does the PSA 5.7 Rock compare to the Ruger 57?

Both the PSA 5.7 Rock and the Ruger 57 are chambered in 5.7x28mm, offering high capacity and minimal recoil. The PSA 5.7 Rock features a smooth single-action striker-fired trigger mechanism and a 23-round magazine capacity. The Ruger 57 comes with a lighter, faster trigger and a 20-round magazine capacity. While both pistols perform well and have their fans, your personal preferences and shooting style will ultimately determine which one is a better fit for you.

What is the price range of the PSA 5.7 Rock?

The exact price of the PSA 5.7 Rock can vary depending on the retailer and any promotions. However, you can generally expect to find the pistol within a reasonable price range compared to other handguns chambered in 5.7x28mm.

What is the overall length of the PSA 5.7 Rock?

The PSA 5.7 Rock features a barrel length of 5.2 inches, contributing to its balance and accuracy. For the overall length of the pistol, including the frame and slide, check the manufacturer's specifications as well as any modifications you have made to your firearm.

Where can I find the PSA 5.7 Rock for sale?

The PSA 5.7 Rock can be found for sale through various online gun retailers, firearms dealers, and occasionally in local gun stores. It is always a good idea to stay updated on the availability of the pistol, as it may sometimes be subject to fluctuations in supply and demand.

What accessories are available for the PSA 5.7 Rock?

There is a variety of accessories available for the PSA 5.7 Rock, including holsters, magazines, sights, and aftermarket parts to customize your firearm. When shopping for accessories, be sure to choose reputable manufacturers and appropriate products designed specifically for the PSA 5.7 Rock to ensure compatibility and a proper fit.

CYA Supply Co Holsters for the PSA 5.7 Rock

When you're looking to carry your PSA 5.7 Rock, a reliable holster is essential. CYA Supply Co offers two great options for your PSA Rock 5.7 holster needs.

The first option is the Base IWB PSA 5.7 Rock Holster. This comfortable inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster is designed using a high-tech proprietary process, ensuring a perfect fit for your PSA 5.7 Rock. The Base IWB holster is backed by a lifetime warranty and a 30-day free return policy, showing CYA Supply Co's confidence in the quality of their products.

The second option available is the PSA 5.7 Rock - Ridge IWB Holster. The Ridge IWB is designed with the modern concealed carrier in mind, incorporating features such as:

  • Optics readiness
  • Look-through/suppressor sight compatibility
  • Compensator and threaded barrel accommodations

The Ridge IWB is available in various colors, including black, flat dark earth, carbon fiber, teal blue, and OD green, allowing you to personalize your holster. Additionally, the Ridge IWB holster is designed for right or left -hand draw, and like the Base IWB holster, it comes with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day free return policy.

To find more holsters specifically designed for Palmetto State Armory firearms, you can visit the Palmetto State Armory Holsters collection page on the CYA Supply Co website. With these CYA Supply Co holster options, you can confidently carry your PSA 5.7 Rock, ensuring a secure and efficient concealed carry experience.

The PSA Rock is a game-changing pistol introduced by Palmetto State Armory, offering impressive reliability and outstanding accuracy. This full-sized, polymer-framed handgun is crafted from high-quality 416 stainless steel and advanced thermopolymers, designed to perform exceptionally in various conditions. With its innovative ergonomics and controllability, the PSA Rock is suitable for a range of applications, from personal defense to competition shooting.

Developed with a focus on compatibility, the PSA Rock features a striker-fired trigger mechanism and carbon steel fluted barrel, designed to work seamlessly with Glock-compatible sights. As an added benefit, the smooth single-action trigger mechanism allows for greater control when shooting, further enhancing the performance of this already impressive firearm.

Key Takeaways

  • The PSA Rock is a reliable, full-sized, polymer-framed pistol with outstanding accuracy
  • Designed for various applications including personal defense, competition shooting, and more
  • Features a striker-fired trigger mechanism, carbon steel fluted barrel, and compatibility with Glock sights.
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