Firstly, a profound apology to Kristina at FN for the tardy review that follows. Picture me sheepishly peeking out from behind this mountain of tardiness, waving a white flag fashioned from a shooting range target. It’s been over 3 years since I was invited to an event for the FN 509 LS EDGE and with a lot going on at the time (and for a long time after), this review kept falling through the cracks.
Better late than never?
Introduction
In the world of firearms, the FN 509 LS EDGE represents a pinnacle of design and engineering, tailored for those who demand precision and reliability. This model is the culmination of meticulous craftsmanship and tactical innovation, making it a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The FN 509 LS EDGE is an evolution within the 509 series, tailored specifically towards those seeking a competitive edge in shooting sports and tactical efficiency. This model enhances the base 509 platform with a longer slide and barrel for improved accuracy, an advanced trigger system for better control, and a slide that’s prepared for optics. It represents FN’s commitment to innovation and serving the needs of both competitive shooters and tactical operators by providing a high-performance handgun that incorporates the latest in firearm technology and design.
FN 509 LS EDGE Specifications
- CALIBER: 9mm
- OPERATION: Double-action
- MAG CAPACITY: 10 or 17 Rd
- WEIGHT: 31 oz.
- BARREL LENGTH: 5″
- OVERALL LENGTH: 8.2″
- TWIST RATE: 1:10″ RH
- HEIGHT: 5.9″
- WIDTH: 1.35″
- TRIGGER PULL: 4.5 lb. – 6.7 lb.
- SIGHT RADIUS: 6.7″
Design and Build
The FN 509 LS EDGE is a testament to the ingenuity of FN America’s design team. The firearm sports a strikingly aggressive aesthetic with a slide cut for low-profile optics—a feature that caters to both competition shooters and firearm enthusiasts. The extended barrel enhances accuracy while maintaining a balanced feel, making it remarkably manageable.
Ergonomic Frame Design
The frame of the FN 509 LS EDGE is crafted from high-strength polymer, which provides a lightweight yet durable structure. It is designed with advanced ergonomics in mind, featuring aggressive texturing on the grip. This texturing ensures a secure hold even in adverse conditions, reducing slippage from sweat or weather elements. The polymer frame also includes interchangeable backstraps, allowing shooters to customize the grip size to their hand, enhancing comfort and control during use.
Extended Barrel and Slide
One of the distinctive design elements of the 509 LS EDGE is its extended 5-inch barrel. This not only provides a longer sight radius, which inherently aids in achieving greater accuracy over distance, but also adds weight to the front of the pistol, helping to stabilize the firearm and reduce muzzle flip. This results in quicker and more accurate follow-up shots, a critical advantage in both competitive shooting and tactical scenarios.
The slide itself is made from steel and features a unique, eye-catching design with lightning cuts and front serrations. These cuts reduce overall weight and improve the balance of the handgun, while the serrations enhance grip during manual slide operations, such as chamber checks or clearing malfunctions.
Optics-Ready Platform
Recognizing the growing trend toward optic-equipped handguns, FN designed the 509 LS EDGE with an optics-ready slide. This setup allows users to easily mount a wide range of red dot sights, which are becoming increasingly popular in both tactical operations and competitive arenas. The system is designed to be compatible with most major optics brands, offering flexibility for users to choose their preferred sighting system.
Enhanced Sights and Trigger
The handgun is equipped with a fiber optic front sight, which provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, paired with a serrated rear sight to reduce glare and promote a clearer sight picture. The sights are designed for rapid target acquisition, crucial in high-stress environments.
The trigger system on the FN 509 LS EDGE is another highlight, featuring a flat-face design that promotes a more consistent finger placement and leverage, leading to a smoother pull and crisper break. This setup enhances the shooter’s ability to deliver accurate shots quickly and reliably, a key factor in both competitive shooting and defensive scenarios.
Overall Craftsmanship
The overall craftsmanship of the FN 509 LS EDGE reflects FN’s commitment to quality and precision. Every component, from the slide to the frame, is engineered to endure the rigors of extensive use, maintaining performance across a wide range of conditions. The meticulous attention to detail ensures that the handgun not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the most demanding users, whether they are involved in law enforcement, personal defense, or competitive shooting.
Performance
On the range, the FN 509 LS EDGE performs exceptionally. The extended 5-inch barrel offers a longer sight radius, which contributes to enhanced accuracy, especially at longer distances. The fiber optic front sight pops visually against targets, providing quick sight acquisition in various lighting conditions.
The trigger system deserves another special mention. The flat-faced design promotes a consistent finger placement, which aids in uniform trigger pulls. This setup results in crisp, clean shots with a predictable reset that seasoned shooters will appreciate. The low recoil impulse, facilitated by the gun’s weight and ergonomic design, allows for rapid follow-up shots with minimal shooter fatigue.
Tactical and Practical Applications
Tactically, the FN 509 LS EDGE shines due to its reliability and ease of use. The ambidextrous controls make it an excellent choice for left and right-handed shooters, ensuring functionality across various scenarios. The inclusion of a MIL-STD-1913 accessory rail makes it simple to equip lights, lasers, or other tactical gear, enhancing its versatility in operational contexts.
Practically, this model fits well within the realms of competitive shooting and personal defense. Its accuracy, coupled with 17-round magazines, makes it a formidable contender in shooting competitions. For personal defense, the robust build and reliability factor into a dependable choice for home and personal security.
Reliability
FN’s reputation for reliability is upheld in the 509 LS EDGE. It cycles various 9mm ammunition types smoothly, from standard FMJs to more sophisticated hollow-points. This versatility ensures that users can trust the firearm to perform when it matters most, whether in competitive settings or critical defensive situations.
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining the FN 509 LS EDGE is straightforward. It disassembles quickly without the need for tools, making routine cleaning and maintenance accessible even for those new to firearms. The robust construction means it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, although regular maintenance is recommended to keep it in peak condition.
Conclusion
The FN 509 LS EDGE is more than just a firearm; it’s a commitment to excellence. Whether you are a competitive shooter or a firearms enthusiast, the EDGE offers a blend of performance, reliability, and style that is hard to match. Its thoughtful design and cutting-edge features set it apart in a crowded field, making it a worthy addition to any arsenal.
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