Carry pistols should disappear under a cover garment, run every time, and give you clear sighting options under stress. As someone who values quiet proficiency and a clean trigger press, I look for a sidearm that supports deliberate, confident work without extra bulk. In the midsize, optics-ready lane, one option stands out for duty-grade dependability and everyday concealment.
FN 509 MIDSIZE MRD [FDE]
Why the 509 platform still matters
FN built the 509 series as a modern evolution of its proven FNS striker-fired line. That lineage shows up in the reliability standard and the way the pistol manages recoil and wear. For concealed carry, the midsize format is the smart compromise: enough barrel to stabilize shots and keep the slide cycling smoothly, with a shortened grip that tucks cleanly against the body.
Classified in the Semi Auto category, this model keeps the essentials rugged and simple. The polymer frame is corrosion-resistant and reduces weight, which matters when the gun is on your hip for hours. Ambidextrous controls are truly mirrored—no weird half-measures—so left- and right-handed shooters get the same manipulation options without aftermarket parts.
Purpose-built for concealed carry
4-inch barrel and shortened grip
The 4-inch barrel offers a useful sight radius while still clearing the holster fast. The shortened grip is the critical concealment upgrade; most printing happens at the backstrap, and this profile keeps the edges trimmed without sacrificing control. Interchangeable backstraps let you fit the frame to your hand—important for consistent draw indexing and recoil management.
Duty-ready sights you can trust
Three-dot luminescent sights provide clear, low-light visibility. On the MRD variant, FN pairs those with suppressor-height iron sights that co-witness with your optic. If your red dot washes out or the battery quits, you transition to irons without changing your presentation. That’s a quiet insurance policy you’ll appreciate when conditions get complicated.
MRD slide: optics-ready without drama
The MRD slide is cut to accept FN’s adapter plates, giving you compatible mounting with popular micro red dots. Co-witness is baked in thanks to the taller irons, and the sight picture remains uncluttered. Set up correctly, your irons should appear in the lower third, allowing a clean red dot focus with an immediate mechanical backup.
Note: the optic is not included. That’s fine—you choose the dot that matches your mission and holster setup. Keep screws torqued to spec, confirm plate fitment, and re-zero after any changes. With a consistent draw and a crisp press, the dot becomes a simple, repeatable aiming solution.
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Controls, ergonomics, and safety
The pistol ships with no manual safety, favoring a streamlined, press-and-go manual of arms. For many concealed carriers and duty users, that reduces steps under stress and aligns with standard striker-fired handling. The trigger safety and internal safeties remain in play, and the design encourages proper holster use and disciplined handling.
Ambidextrous slide stop and magazine release controls are standard. That matters when you’re working around cover or switching hands due to injury or environment. Being able to lock back, clear, and load with either hand is not a parlor trick—it’s a practical skill. The frame texture is assertive without being abrasive, and the backstrap options help you establish a deep, consistent grip that works with your natural recoil arc.
Capacity and loadout
Out of the box, you get two 15-round magazines. That hits a sweet spot for carry: slim enough to conceal, enough capacity to solve likely problems with margin for error. If your environment or policy allows, add a spare magazine on your support side. It’s lighter than you think, and magazines are the most common failure point in any semi-auto system—having a second is good logistics.
Build quality and finish
FN’s FDE color pattern isn’t just looks; the finish resists wear and elements. The polymer frame doesn’t corrode, and the slide treatment stands up to sweat, humidity, and long training days. Holster in, holster out, thousands of reps—the edges will burnish but the pistol keeps its composure. That’s what you want in a tool you trust.
Carry, holsters, and concealment tips
With the shortened grip, this midsize conceals well at the 3–4 o’clock positions and excels at appendix carry for many body types. Choose a holster with positive retention, full trigger guard coverage, and a wedge or wing to pull the grip into the body. Belt stiffness matters; a good belt stabilizes the draw and reduces fatigue. Dry practice the complete sequence—clear the cover garment, achieve a master grip, draw straight to extension, and settle the sights or dot without fishing.
Maintenance cadence and reliability
Keep it simple: clean the barrel, wipe carbon from the breech face, and lightly lubricate the rails and hood contact points. Verify optic mounting screws for torque every few range sessions. Function test with your chosen defensive ammunition, then shoot that load a few times a year to confirm point of impact and reliability. The 509 lineage is known for running hard; you hold up your end with predictable maintenance and quality magazines.
Where this pistol fits
If you want a modern striker-fired pistol with optics capability, ambidextrous controls, and a grip length tuned for concealment, this model checks the boxes without the bulk of a full-duty frame. The MRD system is a major value-add for those who want a red dot now or later, and the suppressor-height sights ensure you’re never without a clean aiming reference. For training, home defense, and everyday carry, it’s a balanced platform from a brand with a defense pedigree.
Price and value
At $685.99, you’re paying for a proven design, factory optics support, and a complete carry-ready package in the Semi Auto category. Considering the included two 15-round magazines, adjustable ergonomics, and the co-witness sighting system, the cost aligns well with other duty-grade optics-ready pistols—often with fewer ambi features out of the box.
Setup recommendations
Grip and fit
Test the included backstraps and choose the one that lets the sights align naturally when you close your eyes and present. You should see the front dot (or the red dot window) land where your eyes expect it—minimal correction required.
Optic pairing
Select a durable micro red dot suitable for concealed carry. Mount with the appropriate FN plate, use threadlocker as directed by the optic manufacturer, and confirm zero at your preferred distance—often 10–15 yards for a defensive handgun zero that maps well to common engagement ranges.
Carry ammo and practice
Pick a reliable, clean-running defensive load and verify function. Record your zero, round count, and any maintenance completed. Systems that are tracked are systems that work.
Final thoughts from the range
Quiet confidence is built on repetition and reliable gear. The FN 509 MIDSIZE MRD [FDE] gives you a 4-inch barrel for controllability, a shortened grip for concealment, ambidextrous controls for any scenario, and a slide cut ready for modern optics—backed by suppressor-height irons for true co-witness. Two 15-round magazines and a corrosion-resistant polymer frame round out a package that’s easy to carry and ready to work.
Lock in your setup, train on fundamentals, and keep your equipment simple and dependable. This pistol makes that easy.
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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