FN America classified the launch of the FN 509 Midsize as the progeny of the full-size FN 509 handgun and the FN 509 Tactical.
The company introduced the 509 less than two years ago as its updated entry into the popular 9mm polymer striker-fired pistol market. It has many of the features we’ve come to expect from the “plastic fantastic” world, such as a highly textured grip, interchangeable backstraps to adjust grip size, an accessory mounting rail, and ambidextrous controls.
Until now, the only variant was the Tactical, which added details like a threaded barrel and suppressor-height sights. It was still a full size gun, however.
In response to people who liked the 509 platform but were looking for something a little smaller to carry, FN created the 509 Midsize that shrinks the 509 in one of the most difficult dimensions for concealment – grip length. The change takes the gun from a 17-round standard magazine to a 15-round standard, much like the Glock G19. At the same time, it maintains the sight radius of the full size 509.
The Midsize is not just a shorter 509 though – it includes many of the features that make the 509 Tactical an upgraded model. Both the Tactical and the Midsize have an extended magazine release, an ambidextrous Vickers-style extended slide stop, and an improved trigger from the standard model 509.
The only feature missing from the Midsize that would be welcome is FN’s Low Profile Optics Mounting System so that a red dot optic could be easily added to the gun.
Otherwise, the FN 509 Midsize is a solid new offering into the concealed carry market, offering yet another choice for people looking for the perfect fit. MSRP is $649, just under the FN 509 MSRP of $679.
