502 Tactical Performance in Restrictive States

Back in 2021, FN America introduced the first slide-mounted, optics-ready .22 LR pistol with the 502 Tactical. The company’s first rimfire pistol, it was met with immediate approval. However, the threaded barrel and 15-round magazine ran afoul of restrictive states. For this reason, FN released its 502 MRD, which features a standard barrel, a 10-round magazine, and reduced cost.

The FN 502 MRD .22LR

Inspired by the 509 ergonomics and grip texturing, the 502 MRD provides maximum control and recoil management. Likewise, a full complement of ambidextrous controls provides easy operation for both right- and left-handed shooters. Additionally, the perfect balance between frame and slide provides a natural feel in the hand during courses of fire.

Sitting atop the frame is the aircraft-grade, anodized aluminum and steel slide with forward and rear cocking serrations. Like the 502 Tactical, the MRD utilizes the same optics mounting platform inspired by the company’s patented Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System.

Compatible with multiple micro red dot optics, users can swap out the included MRD insert plates with integrated sights in minutes. However, the dovetail suppressor-height sights provide a sight radius of 5.5 inches for enhanced accuracy without an optic installed.

Where the MRD sees the real difference from the Tactical is in the barrel. While the Tactical has a threaded barrel, the MRD has a 4-inch barrel with a target-crowned muzzle. As a result, states that do not allow threaded barrels can now enjoy the 502 platform without running afoul of the law.

Rounds are sent downrange from the hammer-fired action via a best-in-class single-action trigger, according to the company. The trigger has a crisp, clean break at ≈ 5 pounds for robust, target pistol-style accuracy and follow-up.

To maintain legality in restrictive states, the MRD ships with two flush-fit 10-round magazines. However, it will accept the 15-round magazines from the Tactical model. Since it shares dimensions with the 509, the 502 MRD will fit most FN 509 holsters.

Availability

The FN 502 MRD is available now with an MSRP of $469.00. For more info, please visit FNAmerica.com.

“The MRD model is the natural evolution of the FN 502 platform, allowing users to add a red dot, and make the most of the exceptional trigger. The MRD model offers another high-performance .22LR pistol for our customer base who value affordable quality in their rimfire pistols,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales for FN America, LLC.

FN 502 MRD Specs

Features

• Slide-mounted optics-ready .22 LR pistol
• Single-action hammer
• Fits most FN 509 holsters
• 4″ barrel, target-crowned muzzle
• Aircraft-grade anodized aluminum and steel slide
• Loaded chamber indicator
• Front and rear cocking serrations for easy manipulation
• Two 10-rd magazines included
• FN 509®-inspired ergonomics and grip texturing
• Best-in-class trigger breaks cleanly at ≈ 5 lbs.
• Ambidextrous controls
• Manual safety, no de-cocker

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