.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm

The .357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm comparison examines two high-velocity handgun cartridges with different design philosophies. The .357 SIG (125gr JHP at 1350 fps) delivers 388 ft-lbs at 50 yards versus the 5.7x28mm's (40gr JHP at 1800 fps) 203 ft-lbs. Penetration differs notably: the .357 SIG stays within the FBI's optimal zone at 14.4-14.8 inches, while the 5.7x28mm exceeds it at 18.0-18.8 inches. Recoil favors the 5.7x28mm at 1.65 ft-lbs compared to the .357 SIG's 7.14 ft-lbs. The .357 SIG sees use by some law enforcement agencies seeking .357 Magnum performance in a semi-auto; the 5.7x28mm trades bullet weight for velocity and capacity.

Ammunition Parameters

.357 SIG Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
JHP
Bullet Weight:
125 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
1350 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.141
Zero Range:
25 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
0.5 inches

5.7x28mm Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
JHP
Bullet Weight:
40 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
1800 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.115
Zero Range:
25 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
0.5 inches

.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Ballistics Chart

Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm.

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Try Our Ballistics Calculators

Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?

.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Energy Comparison

Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm.

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.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm at self-defense distances.

Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration

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Notes:

  • FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
  • Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
  • Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors

.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm.

.357 SIG Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
125.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
1350.0 fps
Powder Charge:
8.7 gr
Firearm Weight:
2.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
0.94 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
15.16 fps
Recoil Energy:
7.14 ft·lbf

5.7x28mm Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
40.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
1800.0 fps
Powder Charge:
6.0 gr
Firearm Weight:
2.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
0.45 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
7.29 fps
Recoil Energy:
1.65 ft·lbf
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Notes:

  • Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
  • Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
  • Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
  • Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design

.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Velocity

Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm.

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.357 SIG vs 5.7x28mm Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .357 SIG and 5.7x28mm.

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