FN Five-seveN MRD 5.7x28mm 4.8-inch FDE 20rd (2 mags)
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About this product
The FN Five-seveN MRD is an optics-ready, 5.7x28mm handgun built for precision shooting with minimal perceived recoil, chambered specifically for the 5.7x28mm cartridge and featuring a 4.8-inch cold hammer-forged barrel and a Flat Dark Earth polymer frame. This MRD (Micro Red Dot) variant represents FN's adaptation of their duty-proven Five-seveN platform into the modern optics-focused market, maintaining the low-impulse characteristics that made the original notable while adding direct-mount capability for popular micro red dots. It ships with two 20-round magazines and ambidextrous controls, positioning it as a civilian-legal option that bridges the gap between service pistol ergonomics and specialized low-recoil performance.
What is the FN Five-seveN MRD used for?
The FN Five-seveN MRD is designed for low-recoil target shooting, tactical training, and as a defensive handgun where optic use is prioritized. Its primary application is delivering precise, rapid follow-up shots on static or moving targets at intermediate handgun distances, typically 15 to 50 yards. The 5.7x28mm cartridge produces significantly less muzzle flip than 9mm or .40 S&W, making it advantageous for shooters managing recoil sensitivity or for high-round-count training sessions where fatigue is a factor.
How does the FN Five-seveN MRD compare to the Ruger-5.7?
The FN Five-seveN MRD offers superior out-of-the-box optics integration and a more refined trigger compared to the Ruger-5.7. While the Ruger-5.7 is a reliable and more affordable pistol, its optic mounting typically requires an aftermarket plate and its trigger pull averages 6.5 lbs, whereas the FN's factory-cut slide accepts multiple footprints directly and its single-action trigger breaks at a consistent 4.8 lbs. The FN platform is the original design host for the 5.7x28mm cartridge, offering proven mechanical reliability, but comes at approximately a $300 premium over the Ruger.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The FN Five-seveN MRD weighs 23 ounces unloaded and measures 8.2 inches in overall length with a 4.8-inch barrel height of 5.9 inches. These dimensions make it comparable in length to a full-size 1911 but significantly lighter due to its polymer frame construction. The width across the slide is 1.45 inches, which is slimmer than many double-stack 9mm pistols, contributing to its streamlined carry profile when holstered.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for shooters on a tight budget or those who prioritize abundant, inexpensive ammunition. The 5.7x28mm round costs approximately $0.65 per round for range-quality FMJ, nearly triple the cost of 9mm. It is also a poor choice for individuals seeking a traditional hammer-fired DA/SA experience or those in jurisdictions with magazine capacity restrictions below 20 rounds. If your primary use is concealed carry in a compact format, consider a Stevens 334 Rifle for a different type of utility.
What's in the box?
The box includes the FN Five-seveN MRD pistol, two 20-round polymer magazines, one optic mounting plate (specific plate depends on retailer shipment), a cable lock, and the owner's manual with warranty card. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case or additional backstraps; the pistol ships in a cardboard box with foam insert. The adjustable iron sights are pre-installed and co-witness with most micro red dots when mounted.
Is the FN Five-seveN MRD worth it at $999?
At $999, the FN Five-seveN MRD is worth the investment for shooters who specifically want the original 5.7 platform with modern optics readiness and are willing to pay for proven design lineage. You are paying for FN's cold hammer-forged barrel, military-proven durability, and a factory-cut slide that avoids the need for aftermarket milling. For general-purpose shooting where ammunition cost is a concern, a quality 9mm optic-ready pistol like a Canik Rival or Walther PDP can be had for $200-$300 less, leaving more budget for ammo and optics. For hunters looking at another specialized firearm, our Stevens 555 Sporting .410 offers a different kind of precision.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Optics-ready slide cut for RMR footprint - eliminates $150+ aftermarket milling
- Weighs 23 oz unloaded - 8 oz lighter than a steel-frame 1911 in .45 ACP
- Single-action trigger breaks at 4.8 lbs - 1.7 lbs lighter than Ruger-5.7 factory trigger
- Includes two 20-round magazines - standard capacity for the platform
Trade-offs
- 5.7x28mm ammunition costs ~$0.65/round - nearly 3x the cost of 9mm range ammo
- No threaded barrel included - adds $180-$220 for a quality aftermarket option
- Flat Dark Earth finish shows holster wear more visibly than black nitride
- Limited holster options for optic-mounted configuration - may require custom order
Key attributes
| upc | 845737015145 |
| manufacturer | FN America / FN Herstal |
| manufacturer part number | 66-101275 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4.80" |
| caliber/gauge | 5.7 x 28 mm |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| length | 12.1000 |
| model | Five seveN |
| number of magazines | 2 20 Round |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 11.1 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | No |
| shipping weight | 3.5 |
| sights | Adj. Rear Combat Sight |
| sights type | 3-Dot |
| slide description | Optic Cut/Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, the FN Five-seveN MRD slide is cut to accept the Trijicon RMR footprint using the included RMR-specific mounting plate. The plate system also accommodates Holosun 507C, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and Shield RMS footprints with corresponding plates, which must be purchased separately from FN or authorized parts dealers. Installation requires a T10 Torx bit and 15 in/lbs of torque on the mounting screws.
- Does it fit in a standard 5.7 holster?
- It fits most holsters molded for the standard FN Five-seveN, provided the holster has an open-bottom design to accommodate the 4.8-inch barrel. Holsters designed specifically for the MRD variant are recommended for optimal optics clearance, as the added height of a red dot may not fit in a closed-top holster meant for iron sights. Safariland ALS holster model 7378 is a confirmed fit with optics.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days after order processing and compliance verification are complete. All firearms ship via FedEx or UPS with adult signature required and tracking provided; you must contact your FFL in advance to confirm they will accept the transfer and provide their license copy. International orders and shipments to restrictive states like California or New York require additional compliance checks.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- The FN Five-seveN MRD has a standard 1/2x28 thread pitch on the barrel, allowing direct attachment of compatible 5.7mm suppressors like the SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask. However, the pistol is not suppressor-ready out of the box; you must purchase a threaded barrel separately, as the factory 4.8-inch barrel is not threaded. Using a suppressor also requires verifying your local NFA regulations and filing a Form 4 for the suppressor itself.