The FN 502 MRD: A Game-Changing .22 LR Handgun for Precision
When it comes to blending tactical innovation with everyday usability, FN Herstal continues to redefine excellence. The FN 502 MRD, available in BLK/BLK and FDE/FDE configurations, is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, precision, and user-centric design. Tailored for training, recreation, and professional use, this optics-ready .22 LR pistol offers unmatched performance and ergonomics.
In this review, we delve deeper into the insights of FN 502 MRD and what makes this firearm a standout choice for firearm enthusiasts.
Unparalleled Design and Build
The FN 502 MRD is a modern version of the FN 509 and its robust design and tactical versatility. This semi-automatic handgun with its superior precision and durability offers great performance on modern grounds, making it a reliable companion for extended shooting sessions and recreational purposes.
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Operation: Single Action Only (SAO)
- Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4 inches
- Overall Weight: 22.5 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 5 pounds
The FN 502 MRD features a compact and lightweight frame making the firearm easy to carry and handle without any compromise with its performance. The standout feature of ambidextrous design makes the firearm ideal for shooters with different hand preferences and good ergonomics make it a user-friendly option for shooters of all skill levels.
Optics-Ready Precision
The FN 502 MRD offers a great slide-mounted optics-ready system that allows users to mount sights such as red-dot, of their choice. This helps shooters to significantly improve their precision and the overall target acquisition. This feature of the FN 502 MRD provides a tactical advantage to shooters making the firearm suitable for all types of shooters, whether you are a seasoned professional who wants to participate in a shooting competition or a beginner seeking a firearm for recreational purposes.
The safety and operational efficiency of the shooter is further improved with the help of the loaded chamber indicator and front and rear cocking serrations. The optic-ready design by accommodating different types of sights enhances the customizability of the firearm, allowing shooters to witness the firearm with mounted optics.
Exceptional Build Quality
Crafted from aircraft-grade anodized aluminum and steel, the slide of the FN 502 MRD is both durable and lightweight. Its target-crowned muzzle enhances accuracy by ensuring consistent bullet trajectory, while the polymer frame with a built-in Picatinny rail offers versatility for accessory attachments.
Available Finishes
- BLK/BLK: Featuring a sleek black anodized finish for a modern and tactical appearance.
- FDE/FDE: Highlighted by its Flat Dark Earth finish, delivering a stylish and rugged look.
Detailed Specifications
| Feature | FN 502 MRD BLK/BLK 2X10 | FN 502 MRD FDE/FDE 2X10 |
| Item Number | B2_FN_66101013 | B2_FN_66101012 |
| SKU | 66101013 | 66101012 |
| Model | 502 | 502 |
| UPC | 845737013325 | 845737013318 |
| Price | $426.67 | $426.67 |
| Caliber | .22 LR | .22 LR |
| Operation | Single Action Only (SAO) | Single Action Only (SAO) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds | 10 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4″ | 4″ |
| Overall Length | 7″ | 7″ |
| Twist Rate | 1:16 RH | 1:16 RH |
| Height | 5.4″ | 5.4″ |
| Width | 1.4″ | 1.4″ |
| Weight | 22.5 oz | 22.5 oz |
| Trigger Pull | 5 lbs | 5 lbs |
| Sight Radius | 5.5″ | 5.5″ |
| Slide Material | Aircraft-grade anodized aluminum and steel | Aircraft-grade anodized aluminum and steel |
| Slide Finish | Black PVD | Flat Dark Earth PVD |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Frame Color | Black | Flat Dark Earth |
| Grip Material | Black Textured Polymer | FDE Polymer |
| Safety | Manual | Manual |
| Sights | Suppressor Height Fixed Sights | Suppressor Height Fixed Sights |
| Magazines Included | Two 10-round magazines | Two 10-round magazines |
| Primary Features | Optics-ready slide, ambidextrous controls, fits FN 509 holsters | Optics-ready slide, ambidextrous controls, fits FN 509 holsters |
| Barrel Description | Target Crown Steel | Target Crown Steel |
| Slide Description | Optic Ready/Serrated | Optic Ready/Serrated |
| Manufacturer | FN | FN |
| Pricing Unit | GN | GN |
| Accessories | 2-10 Round | 2-10 Round |
| Barrel Finish | Black | Black |
| Dimension | 2.90 x 8.60 x 11.60 | 2.80 x 8.70 x 11.70 |
| Finish/Color | Anodized | Anodized |
| Frame Description | Polymer Frame w/Picatinny Rail | Polymer Frame w/Picatinny Rail |
| Frame Size | Full Size | Full Size |
| Hand | Ambidextrous | Ambidextrous |
| Includes | 2 Magazines | 2 Magazines |
| Number of Magazines Included | 2 | 2 |
| OAL | 7″ | 7″ |
| Series | MRD | MRD |
| Similar Items | HG22A | HG22A |
| Size | Compact | Compact |
| Slide Color | Black | Flat Dark Earth |
| Type | SAO | SAO |
| Type Action Function | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto |
| Type of Sights | Fixed | Fixed |
| Weight (in Ounces) | 22.5 | 22.5 |
Performance Highlights
Accuracy and Control
The FN 502 MRD’s target-grade fire control system ensures faster, more precise shots. With a 1:16 right-hand twist rate and a 5.5-inch sight radius, shooters benefit from improved stability and accuracy. The textured polymer grips and balanced weight distribution further enhance control, making it ideal for extended use.
Training and Versatility
The FN 502 MRD design makes it efficient for both professional shooting and recreational shooting purposes, additionally, the compatibility with most of the FN 509 holsters enhances the practicality, transforming the firearm into a versatile option for those who transition between platforms.
User Experience
Ease of Use
The simplistic and efficient engineering of the FN 502 MRD and its ambidextrous controls make the firearm both modern and easily accessible for all hand preferences while the lightweight build greatly reduces the fatigue caused during extended shooting sessions. The suppressor-height sights ensure versatility for various shooting setups, including suppressed configurations.
Customization Options
The integrated Picatinny rail and optics-ready slide of the FN 502 MRD is a highly customizable platform where the shooters can easily mount lights, lasers, and optics of their choice. This means the FN 502 MRD can be tailored according to the operations or specific use cases.
Affordable and Practical
The affordability of the FN 502 MRD remains one of its standout features, it is chambered in .22LR and offers a low-cost solution for someone who is regularly involved in extended shooting sessions and requires heavy ammunition usage. The economical value of the .22 LR ammunition ensures you can extend your training sessions without breaking the bank.
Real-World Applications
Recreational Shooting
The FN 502 MRD is an ideal option for recreational shooting purposes such as hunting, participating in shooting competitions, and using firearms as a hobby, providing fun shooters of all levels. The smooth trigger pull and precise sight alignment ensure the enhancement in overall target acquisition.
Training and Skill Development
The FN 502 MRD can be an excellent training firearm for both professionals and beginners for a variety of reasons. The design of the FN 502 MRD is very similar to the FN 509 which enables shooters to transition between platforms and develop their fundamental skills.
Home Defense Practice
Although, the FN 502 MRD was primarily designed for recreational and training purposes, the features that are offered by this firearm make it suitable for self-defense scenarios. The reliability and ease of use ensure the users are confident while using the firearm for real-world scenarios.
Why Choose the FN 502 MRD?
- Affordable Ammunition: The affordability of the ammunition of this firearm is its standout feature, the .22 LR caliber is cost-efficient for a range of operations such as recreational shooting or prolonged shooting sessions without showcasing any compromise in its performance.
- Customizable Platform: The FN 502 MRD is considered to be highly customizable due to its accommodation with a wide range of accessories such as optics, lights, lasers, etc.
- Ergonomic Excellence: The feature of ambidextrous designs makes the firearms accessible for shooters of different hand preferences. Additionally, the pistol offers a comfortable grip which enhances its usability for an extended duration without causing any fatigue.
- Tactical Reliability: The FN 502 MRD’s sturdy and trustworthy build ensures that it can withstand extended shooting environments.
- Trusted Brand: FN Herstal has a long history of creating high-quality rifles that are trusted by both military and civilian users around the world.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Many users praise the FN 502 MRD for its exceptional build quality and user-friendly design. Common highlights include its smooth trigger action, reliable cycling of various ammunition types, and the added value of being optics-ready. Enthusiasts also appreciate its compatibility with existing FN 509 holsters, simplifying their setup.
Conclusion
The FN 502 MRD sets a new benchmark for optics-ready .22 LR pistols. Its thoughtful design, exceptional build quality, and performance-focused features make it a top-tier choice for firearm enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner looking for a reliable and fun handgun, the FN 502 MRD delivers on all fronts.
Explore the BLK/BLK and FDE/FDE models today and elevate your shooting experience with FN’s unmatched innovation.
Please Note:
Product pricing and availability may vary. Please verify current pricing and stock information from our website at https://www.bigstonesarmory.com.

