The FN P90 and its civilian counterpart, the PS90, are iconic firearms renowned for their innovative design and compact form factor. Understanding the differences between the FN PS90 and P90 is essential for enthusiasts and potential owners.
Origins and Purpose
Introduced in the early 1990s by FN Herstal, the P90 was developed as a personal defense weapon (PDW) for military and law enforcement. Its compact bullpup design and high-capacity magazine made it ideal for close-quarters combat. To cater to civilian markets, FN released the PS90, a semi-automatic version adhering to legal requirements.
Key Differences Between FN PS90 and P90
- Fire Mode:
- P90: Capable of both semi-automatic and fully automatic fire, allowing continuous shooting with a single trigger pull.
- PS90: Restricted to semi-automatic fire only, complying with civilian firearm regulations.
- Barrel Length:
- P90: Features a shorter barrel length of approximately 10.4 inches, contributing to its compact design.
- PS90: Equipped with a longer 16-inch barrel to meet legal requirements for civilian rifles in many jurisdictions.
- Overall Design:
- P90: Designed for military use with features like a built-in reflex sight and selective fire options.
- PS90: Modified for civilian use, often lacking certain military-specific features and incorporating compliance modifications.
- Magazine Capacity:
- Both Models: Typically utilize a 50-round horizontally mounted magazine. However, some regions may impose restrictions on magazine capacity for civilian models.
- Legal Considerations:
- P90: Generally restricted to military and law enforcement due to its fully automatic capabilities.
- PS90: Available to civilians but subject to varying state and local regulations, including restrictions on barrel length and magazine capacity.
Conclusion
While the FN P90 and PS90 share a common lineage, their differences are significant, primarily concerning fire mode, barrel length, and intended use. Prospective PS90 owners should thoroughly research and adhere to local laws and regulations to ensure compliant and responsible ownership.
FAQs
- Can civilians own the FN P90?
- No, the P90’s fully automatic capability restricts it to military and law enforcement use.
- Is the PS90’s longer barrel removable?
- Modifying the barrel length can violate firearm regulations; consult local laws before making alterations.
- Are PS90 magazines interchangeable with the P90?
- Yes, both models use the same magazine design, but capacity restrictions may apply to civilian use.
- What caliber do the P90 and PS90 use?
- Both are chambered in FN’s proprietary 5.7×28mm cartridge.
- Can the PS90 be converted to fully automatic?
- No, converting a semi-automatic firearm to fully automatic is illegal without proper licensing.
