CADRE Dispatch

FN 309 MRD: CADRE NEWS

Cory Ross

Just in time for SHOT Show, FN introduced its newest pistol, the FN 309 MRD. The 309 is a new addition to FN’s polymer-frame pistol lineup. The FN 509 MRD has been available for quite a while and offers many features — but it’s not what I’d call affordable. That’s where the 309 comes in. 

The 309 is FN’s attempt to enter the consumer 9mm market with a gun designed to be easy to shoot, use, and own.

SPECS

The 309 is a unique offering for FN and largely sets a new standard for them. The design draws inspiration from the 509 series while adding its unique twist. It shifts from a striker-fired mechanism to a hammer-fired one, taking cues from the popular FN Reflex. And that’s where the similarities seem to end.

That said, the standard specs are as follows:

  • Model(s): 66-102366
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Operation: Internal Hammer-Fired SAO
  • Capacity: 16/20 Rd.
  • Sights: Green fiber optic front and white U-notch rear.
  • Optic Cut: DeltaPoint pro and Shield RMS Footprint
  • Barrel Length: 3.8”
  • Overall Length: 7.4”
  • Width at Grip: 1.26”
  • Height: 5.4”
  • Weight: 22.5 oz.
  • Price: $549.00 MSRP
FN 309 MRD Pistol.
The FN 309 MRD offers a ton of features and is designed for the everyday user. (Photo Credit: FN America)

FEATURES

The FN 309 appears to be designed by shooters, blending comfort, control, and confidence into a very practical firearm. A crisp 5-pound single-action trigger breaks cleanly with a positive reset, while soft recoil and a newly designed neutral grip angle help the gun settle naturally on target.

Ease of use is a recurring theme, with many modern pistols focusing on it. FN claims the slide is 25% easier to rack and uses magazines that require 40% less spring loading force. Cool. All these features make it perfect for new shooters or those with dexterity issues.

Add FN’s proven safety systems, an optics-ready slide, a light-ready rail, and a barrel made from machine-gun-grade alloy (because why not), and the FN 309 proves itself as a dependable, modern sidearm for serious shooters.

Zooming Out

The 309 MRD seems like a fresh change for FN from the usual. It is well-designed and targets everyday use. The MSRP is $549.99, aligning with most other offerings in this category.

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