Description
The FN 509 Midsize MRD sits in a sweet spot that a lot of people spend a long time searching for: compact enough to carry comfortably, but with enough grip to shoot well and a 15-round magazine to back it up. In terms of overall size, it lines up closely with the Glock 19, though reviewers consistently note the 509 feels more contoured and less blocky in the hand. At 26.5 oz with a 7.4-inch overall length, there's enough weight here to soak up recoil without becoming a burden on the waistband.
The optics setup is where this pistol really shines. FN's Low Profile Optics Mounting System uses small adapter plates to let you mount over 10 different miniature red dot optics directly to the slide, without an adapter plate running the full length of the cut. The result is a lower, more secure optic position that sits closer to the bore line. The included all-black co-witness iron sights work with or without a dot mounted, so you're not losing your backup sighting option either way.
The barrel is cold hammer-forged stainless steel with a polished chamber and feed ramp, which contributes to both the accuracy and the reliable cycling this platform is known for. The flat-faced trigger has a clean break and a consistent reset, and the interchangeable backstraps let you dial in your grip fit for better recoil management. Front and rear slide serrations make for fast, positive manipulation, and the fully ambidextrous slide stop and magazine release means left-handed users aren't an afterthought.
The MIL-STD-1913 accessory rail under the barrel gives you a home for a weapon light or laser. The 509 Midsize also accepts FN's 17- and 24-round magazines with the appropriate sleeve, so your capacity options aren't locked to 15 rounds if you don't want them to be. This FDE version has the finish carried through both the frame and slide, giving it a clean, coordinated look that's different from the standard black configuration.
This one ships with two 15-round magazines, the optics mounting system with adapter plates, two interchangeable backstraps, a soft-sided FN case, a locking device, and an owner's manual.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: FN America / FN Herstal
- Model: FN 509 Midsize MRD
- MPN: 66-100741
- UPC: 845737011567
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Striker-Fired Semi-Auto
- Barrel Length: 4.0"
- Overall Length: 7.4"
- Height: 5.2"
- Width: 1.35"
- Weight (unloaded): 26.5 oz.
- Capacity: 15+1
- Twist Rate: 1:10" RH
- Sight Radius: 5.79"
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 – 7.5 lb.
- Frame Material: Polymer with replaceable steel frame/slide rails
- Color / Finish: Flat Dark Earth (FDE)
- Sights: All-black co-witness iron sights, optics ready
- Safety: No manual safety
- Accessory Rail: MIL-STD-1913
What’s Included
- FN 509 Midsize MRD pistol
- Two 15-round magazines
- FN Low Profile Optics Mounting System with adapter plates
- Two interchangeable backstraps
- Soft-sided FN carrying case
- Locking device
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
What red dot sights are compatible with the FN 509 Midsize MRD?
FN's Low Profile Optics Mounting System ships with adapter plates that support direct mounting of more than 10 popular miniature red dot optics. The system is designed to keep the optic sitting low and close to the bore, and the included all-black co-witness iron sights remain usable with a dot mounted. Popular options like the Holosun 507C X2 drop right onto the factory RMR plate without any additional milling.
Can the FN 509 Midsize MRD use higher-capacity magazines?
Yes. The 509 Midsize MRD is compatible with FN's 17-round and 24-round FN 509 magazines when paired with the appropriate grip sleeve. The magazines themselves interchange freely across the 509 family, so you have solid flexibility for training or home defense use. The pistol ships standard with two 15-round magazines.
How does the size of the FN 509 Midsize MRD compare to something like a Glock 19?
The 509 Midsize MRD is closely comparable to the Glock 19 in overall footprint, with a 4-inch barrel and 7.4-inch overall length. At 26.5 oz unloaded, it carries a bit more weight, which reviewers note actually helps manage recoil. Many people find the 509's grip shape more contoured and comfortable than the G19, though fit is always personal.
Does the FN 509 Midsize MRD have a manual safety?
No, this model does not include a manual thumb safety. The 509 Midsize MRD uses a trigger-mounted blade safety as its primary passive safety mechanism, which is standard for modern striker-fired pistols in this class. If a manual safety is important to you, that's worth factoring into your decision.
What holsters fit the FN 509 Midsize MRD?
The 509 Midsize uses the same 4-inch slide as the standard FN 509, so holsters made for the standard model generally fit the Midsize as well. If you plan to run a red dot optic, make sure to select a holster with an optics cutout to accommodate the sight. The 509 Midsize will not fit holsters designed for the longer-slided 509 Tactical, so confirm the specific variant when ordering.
Is the FN 509 Midsize MRD good for everyday carry?
It's a capable EDC option for someone who wants meaningful capacity and optics-readiness without stepping up to a full-size pistol. The midsize frame keeps the grip length manageable for concealment while still giving you a full hand on the gun. The 26.5 oz weight is on the heavier side for carry compared to compact polymer pistols, so a good belt and holster setup matters more here than it would with a lighter gun.






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