SHOT Show 2020 Video: Diamondback DBX Pistol

Definitely one of the more interesting firearms I saw at SHOT Show 2020 was Diamondback's DBX pistol in 5.7x28 mm. Coming in at 3.7 pounds, the DBX has an 8-inch-barrel, reciprocating charging handle, ambidextrous operation in a locked-breech, gas-piston-driven operating system. Trigger, grip and safety lever are standard AR-15-style, so the wide world of AR components is available for upgrades and customization. The DBX takes the same magazines as the FN 5.7 and the CMMG Banshee (a future model that takes Ruger-57 magazines is in the works), and is projected to have an MSRP of $1,299.

Shooting the DBX is just all kinds of fun. The pistol's weight soaks up the already minimal recoil of the 5.7x28 mm round, and the 8-inch barrel gives it more oomph than a standard 4- or 5-inch barrel. It's quite easy to make hits on steel at 25 yards, especially with the large amount of rail spanning the top of the pistol. There's plenty of room for electro-optics and backup sights on the DBX, and the stabilizing arm brace offers a third point-of-contact for extra stability when used as a PDW. If you're looking for a fun, eminently shootable pistol that stands out on the range, the Diamondback DBX might be just the thing.