FN 509 Compact 9mm 3.7″ FDE Polymer Frame Stainless Slide
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About this product
The FN 509 Compact is a semi-automatic compact pistol chambered in 9mm that delivers full-sized performance in a concealable footprint. It combines a Flat Dark Earth polymer frame with a stainless steel slide and 3.70-inch hammer-forged barrel for duty-grade reliability in a package optimized for everyday carry. This pistol features fully ambidextrous controls and ships with two magazines, making it suitable for both left and right-handed shooters.
What is the FN 509 Compact used for?
The FN 509 Compact is designed for concealed carry and duty applications where compact dimensions matter. Its 6.80-inch overall length and 25.50-ounce unloaded weight make it ideal for all-day carry, while the accessory rail accepts lights and lasers for low-light engagements. The enhanced grip texturing and low-profile sights support rapid target acquisition during defensive scenarios.
How does the FN 509 Compact compare to the Glock 19?
The FN 509 Compact offers superior out-of-the-box features compared to the Glock 19, including fully ambidextrous controls and optic-ready slide options. While the Glock 19 weighs 23.65 ounces unloaded, the FN 509 Compact's 25.50-ounce weight provides slightly better recoil management due to its stainless steel slide. The FN's hammer-forged barrel also typically shows less wear after 5,000 rounds compared to the Glock's conventional rifling.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The FN 509 Compact weighs 25.50 ounces unloaded and measures 6.80 inches in length with a 3.70-inch barrel. The height stands at 5.20 inches with the flush magazine inserted, and the width is 1.35 inches at its widest point. These dimensions make it approximately 0.30 inches shorter in length than our Stevens 334 Rifle but significantly more compact for carry purposes.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for beginners who prioritize maximum capacity over concealment, as its compact frame limits magazine capacity to 12 rounds in most configurations. Shooters with very large hands may find the grip too short without magazine extensions, and those seeking a pure competition pistol should look toward full-sized options. The 3.70-inch barrel also sacrifices some velocity compared to 4.5-inch duty pistols.
What's in the box?
The package includes the FN 509 Compact pistol, two magazines (typically 12-round and 15-round options depending on local regulations), interchangeable backstraps, and a cable lock. You'll also find the owner's manual and warranty information, but unlike some competitors, it does not include a cleaning kit or additional sights. The entire package ships in a hard plastic case that provides basic protection during transport.
Is the FN 509 Compact worth it at $629?
At $629, the FN 509 Compact delivers excellent value for shooters needing a duty-ready compact pistol with premium features. Compared to similarly priced options like the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Compact, you're getting a hammer-forged barrel and fully ambidextrous controls that typically add $100-150 to aftermarket modifications. For those who prioritize out-of-the-box readiness for both carry and suppressor use, this represents a solid investment.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 25.50 oz unloaded — 1.85 oz heavier than Glock 19 for better recoil control
- 3.70-inch hammer-forged barrel lasts 20,000+ rounds versus 15,000 for conventional barrels
- Fully ambidextrous controls — rare in compact pistols under $700
- Includes two magazines — most competitors ship with only one
Trade-offs
- No optics plate included — adds $45 and 2-week wait for optic readiness
- 12-round flush magazine limits capacity compared to 15-round Glock 19 standard
- Stainless slide shows holster wear faster than nitride finishes — expect visible scratching after 500 draws
Key attributes
| upc | 845737012816 |
| manufacturer | FN America / FN Herstal |
| manufacturer part number | 66-100818 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| barrel length | 3.70" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 15 + 1 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| safety | No |
| shipping weight | 3.1 |
| sights | Low-profile, High-Viz front dot |
| sights type | HiViz Front, Low Profile Rear |
| slide description | Serrated |
| atf type | Pistol |
| length | 11.5 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 509 full-size magazines?
- Yes, the FN 509 Compact accepts all full-size FN 509 magazines, providing compatibility with 17-round and 24-round extended options. The pistol ships with one 12-round flush magazine and one 15-round extended magazine for immediate flexibility.
- Does it fit standard holsters for compact 9mm pistols?
- No, the FN 509 Compact requires specific holsters due to its unique slide profile and accessory rail dimensions. We recommend Blackhawk T-Series or Safariland 7378 models for secure retention, as generic Glock 19 holsters will not provide proper fit.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Standard shipping takes 3-5 business days after FFL verification, while expedited options reach most destinations in 2 business days. All firearms shipments require signature confirmation and transfer through your local FFL dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand properly?
- No, firearms cannot be returned once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. We recommend handling the pistol at your local dealer before purchase, or using the interchangeable backstraps to adjust grip circumference by approximately 0.25 inches.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, the FN 509 Compact's slide is pre-milled for micro red dots including Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. Installation requires purchasing a separate mounting plate from FN for $45, as plates are not included standard.