FN 502 MRD .22 LR 4in FDE Optic-Ready Pistol

About this product

What is the FN 502 MRD .22 LR 4in FDE Optic-Ready Pistol? It's a hammer-fired .22 LR training pistol built on FN's 502 platform with direct optic mounting capability and full ambidextrous controls. Engineered for high-volume range use, it combines the ergonomics of the FN 509 series with cost-effective rimfire operation. The 4-inch target-crowned barrel and Flat Dark Earth polymer frame make it both visually distinctive and functionally practical for skill development.

What is the FN 502 MRD used for?

This pistol is optimized for high-round-count training and suppressor-ready rimfire practice. The single-action trigger breaks at a consistent 4.5 pounds while the optics-ready slide accepts micro red dots like the Holosun 507K without adapter plates. With two included 10-round magazines, you can run through 20 rounds of .22 LR before needing to reload – perfect for transition drills or introducing new shooters to pistol fundamentals.

How does the FN 502 MRD compare to the Taurus TX22 Competition?

The FN 502 MRD delivers superior out-of-the-box optics mounting but costs $100 more than the Taurus TX22 Competition. Where the Taurus requires an optional plate for optics and uses a striker-fired system, the FN's direct MRD cut and hammer-fired operation provide cleaner trigger feedback and immediate red dot compatibility. For suppressor hosts, the FN's 1/2x28 threaded barrel (adapter required) pairs better with high-end cans like the Dead Air Mask than the Taurus's non-standard threading.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The FN 502 MRD weighs 23.5 ounces unloaded and measures 7.3 inches in overall length. The 4-inch cold hammer-forged barrel provides a 5.7-inch sight radius when using the factory suppressor-height sights. The grip circumference measures 5.9 inches – nearly identical to the Stevens 334 rifle's forend – making it comfortable for shooters with medium to large hands.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol isn't suitable for concealed carry or defensive use due to its .22 LR caliber and target-focused design. The single-action-only operation lacks the striker safety systems found in defensive pistols like the FN 509, and the 10-round magazine capacity falls short of typical defense loads. Hunters seeking a field pistol for small game would be better served by a Stevens 555 .410 shotgun for more ethical kills beyond 25 yards.

What's in the box?

You receive the pistol itself, two 10-round magazines, a cable lock, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, FN doesn't include optic mounting screws or thread protectors – plan on sourcing 6-32 thread screws separately if mounting a red dot. The magazines feature a witness hole design showing round count at 5-round intervals, which is more useful than the single indicator on Ruger Mark IV magazines.

Is the FN 502 MRD worth it at $449?

At $449, this pistol justifies its price through genuine FN manufacturing quality and immediate optics readiness. The molded-in Picatinny rail under the barrel accepts lights or lasers without adapters, and the MRD cut saves $60-80 compared to having a slide milled. For trainers running thousands of rounds monthly, the cold hammer-forged barrel will outlast the button-rifled barrels on cheaper .22 pistols by at least 15,000 rounds.