I first heard about the Kel-Tec PR57 through a unique connection—Parker, Kel-Tec's Director of Sales, known as 'Vick' in our F3 workout group. He brought the PR57 by the shop for a firsthand look, and I couldn’t wait to put it through its paces. This review dives into everything I learned about this remarkable pistol, from its innovative design to its performance on the range."Kel-Tec has once again disrupted the firearms world with the introduction of the PR57, short for "Pistol Rotary 5.7."
First Impressions
The PR57 is strikingly unique, especially for those familiar with traditional 5.7x28mm firearms. Its top-loading mechanism, reminiscent of the M1 Garand, eliminates the need for a detachable magazine. Instead, the pistol uses a stripper clip to load rounds directly into the firearm, making for a slimmer, more ergonomic grip. The rounded upper design, complete with optic compatibility, shows careful attention to detail and practicality.
Handling the PR57 is a pleasant surprise. The absence of a magazine results in a thin, lightweight profile that feels comfortable in the hand. The build quality is solid, and the unconventional loading system is both intuitive and robust.
Who Is It For?
The PR57 is tailored for users seeking a compact, affordable, and reliable concealed carry option with the added fun of 5.7x28mm capability. Its lightweight build and innovative design make it perfect for concealed carry. It shines as a practical and budget-friendly pistol.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable: At $399, it’s the most budget-friendly 5.7 pistol available.
- Lightweight: No magazine means reduced weight without sacrificing performance.
- Innovative Design: Top-loading system and ergonomic grip improve handling.
- Reliability: Simple design reduces potential failure points, similar to Glock’s approach.
- Optics Ready: Easily mount an optic to its rounded upper.
Cons:
- Specific Use Case: Designed for concealed carry and recreational shooting, not competition.
- Aesthetic Adjustment: The top-loading mechanism may take getting used to for traditionalists.
Use Cases and Comparisons
If you’re looking for a firearm that’s both practical and unique, the PR57 is an excellent choice. It serves as the ideal concealed carry weapon. Plus, it stands out for its affordability and usability in real-world scenarios.
Here’s how it stacks up against the competition:
|
Feature |
Kel-Tec PR57 |
FN FiveseveN |
Ruger 57 |
PSA 5.7 Rock |
|
MSRP |
$399 |
$1,409 |
$899 |
$499 |
|
Weight |
13.86 oz. |
21 oz. |
24.5 oz. |
21.9 oz. |
|
Barrel Length |
4.64” |
4.8" |
4.94" |
4.3 Non Threaded |
|
Overall Length |
7.16” |
8.2" |
8.65" |
7.4” |
Range Test Performance
- Coming soon.
Maintenance and Ease of Use
This might be the easiest semi-auto pistol to clean. Field stripping takes seconds—simply press the trigger guard forward to release the upper. Kel-Tec’s design eliminates unnecessary parts, making maintenance a breeze.
Pricing and Value
At $399 MSRP, the PR57 delivers unparalleled value in the 5.7 pistol market. While street prices may climb higher due to demand, it remains a fraction of the cost of competitors like the FN FiveseveN. For those looking for an affordable, reliable CCW option, the PR57 is a no-brainer.
Conclusion
Kel-Tec has hit a home run with the PR57, delivering a compact, reliable, and affordable 5.7 pistol that firearm enthusiasts can get excited about. Its innovative design and practical features make it an excellent choice for self-defense or recreational use.
Ready to own the PR57? Click here to purchase now!
