Fn 509 vs Fnx-45: Ultimate Handgun Showdown & Comparison
Choosing the right handgun can feel like navigating a minefield of options. The sheer variety of models, features, and calibers available can be overwhelming, especially for those new to firearms. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you make an informed decision.
We’ll be pitting two formidable contenders against each other: the FN 509 and the FNX-45. Both are renowned for their reliability and performance, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding their key differences is crucial for finding the perfect fit for your shooting style.
This comparison will explore everything from ergonomics and handling to features and performance on the range. We’ll analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the FN 509, a popular striker-fired pistol, and the FNX-45, a hammer-fired powerhouse. Get ready to discover which one comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | fn 509 | fnx 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | .45 ACP |
| Capacity | 10/15/17 rounds | 15 rounds |
| Action | Striker-fired | Double-action/Single-action |
| Barrel Length | 4.0 inches | 4.71 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.4 inches | 8.0 inches |
| Width | 1.35 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Height | 5.5 inches | 5.7 inches |
| Weight (empty) | 23.9 oz | 33.3 oz |
| Sights | 3-dot | 3-dot |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5-7.5 lbs | 5.5-12 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Caliber
- Fn 509: Chambered in 9mm Luger. This offers readily available and relatively affordable ammunition. The 9mm offers a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.
- Fnx 45: Chambered in .45 ACP. This delivers significantly more stopping power due to its larger bullet diameter. Ammunition is typically more expensive than 9mm and recoil is more substantial.
- Winner: fnx 45
Magazine Capacity
- Fn 509: Typically comes with magazines holding 10, 15, or 17 rounds, depending on the model and state restrictions. Higher capacity magazines offer more rounds on tap before needing to reload.
- Fnx 45: Comes with magazines holding 10 or 15 rounds. The lower capacity is a tradeoff due to the larger .45 ACP cartridges.
- Winner: fn 509
Size and Weight
- Fn 509: Generally smaller and lighter than the FNX-45, making it easier to conceal and carry. This is a significant advantage for everyday carry.
- Fnx 45: Larger and heavier, which can absorb recoil better but makes it less ideal for concealed carry. Its size makes it more suitable for duty carry or home defense.
- Winner: fn 509
Ergonomics
- Fn 509: Features a more modern grip design that fits a wider range of hand sizes. The grip texture provides a secure hold.
- Fnx 45: The grip is known for its comfortable feel, but it can be a bit large for those with smaller hands. The grip features interchangeable backstraps.
- Winner: Tie
Trigger
- Fn 509: Possesses a trigger that is generally regarded as good, with a crisp break and moderate reset. Aftermarket upgrades are available.
- Fnx 45: Offers a trigger that is considered decent with a smooth pull and predictable break. It is generally reliable.
- Winner: Tie
Sights
- Fn 509: Typically comes with standard three-dot sights, but many models are optics-ready. This provides flexibility for mounting red dot sights.
- Fnx 45: Also comes with three-dot sights, and the slide is often ready for optics. The sights are easy to acquire.
- Winner: Tie
Recoil Management
- Fn 509: The lighter weight and 9mm caliber contribute to a more manageable recoil impulse. Follow-up shots are quicker and easier.
- Fnx 45: While the heavier frame helps mitigate recoil, the .45 ACP round produces a more noticeable recoil. This can lead to slower follow-up shots.
- Winner: fn 509
Price
- Fn 509: Generally more affordable than the FNX-45, making it an accessible option for a wider range of buyers. This is a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers.
- Fnx 45: Typically costs more due to its larger size, caliber, and sometimes, included features.
- Winner: fn 509
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Concealed Carry | fn 509 |
| Stopping Power | fnx 45 |
| Magazine Capacity | fn 509 |
| Trigger System Preference | Tie (Dependent on individual preference) |
| Overall Size | fn 509 |
What They Have in Common
- Frame Material: Both pistols feature a polymer frame, providing a balance of durability and weight reduction. This material contributes to the overall comfortable feel during handling and shooting.
- Sights: Both the FN 509 and FNX-45 come equipped with 3-dot sights, offering a familiar and easy-to-acquire sight picture for quick target acquisition. This commonality aids in the transition between these two models.
- Magazine Release: Both pistols utilize a push-button magazine release, allowing for easy and quick magazine changes. This feature enhances the speed of reloading during both training and self-defense situations.
- Accessory Rail: Both models have an accessory rail, enabling the attachment of lights or lasers. This provides versatility for low-light situations.
- Ergonomics: Both pistols are designed with ergonomic considerations in mind, aiming to provide a comfortable and secure grip for various hand sizes. This helps improve shooter control and accuracy.
Fn 509 Vs Fnx 45 Buying Guide
Ergonomics and Handling
The FN 509 is often praised for its excellent ergonomics and comfortable grip, thanks to its well-contoured frame and textured grip surfaces. It’s designed to fit a wide range of hand sizes, making it easy to handle and control during rapid firing. The FNX-45, while also featuring a comfortable grip, is significantly larger due to its .45 ACP chambering. This size difference can make it less comfortable for shooters with smaller hands. The FNX-45’s grip may feel bulkier, but it still offers good ergonomics for those accustomed to larger handguns.
Caliber and Capacity
The FN 509 is chambered in 9mm, which offers excellent ammunition availability and lower recoil compared to larger calibers. Its magazine capacity typically ranges from 10 to 17 rounds, depending on the magazine configuration. The FNX-45 is chambered in .45 ACP, delivering a heavier bullet and greater stopping power, though it also produces more felt recoil. The FNX-45 holds a substantial capacity for its caliber, usually 15 rounds, offering significant firepower in a single magazine.
Size and Weight
The FN 509 is a more compact and lighter handgun, making it easier to conceal and carry. It is well-suited for everyday carry (EDC) or as a duty weapon. The FNX-45, being a larger handgun, is less ideal for concealed carry. Its added weight can also become a factor after extended periods of carrying. This increased size and weight contribute to the FNX-45’s ability to absorb recoil, making it more manageable to shoot despite its powerful .45 ACP round.
Trigger and Accuracy
Both pistols offer good trigger performance, but the feel can be subjective. The FN 509 often features a crisp trigger pull with a shorter reset, which is advantageous for rapid follow-up shots. The FNX-45 typically has a trigger that is smooth, but may feel slightly heavier. Both guns are known for their accuracy, but shooter skill and preference play a significant role. Regular practice and familiarity with the trigger and sight picture are crucial for achieving optimal accuracy with either pistol.
Features and Customization
Both the FN 509 and FNX-45 include features that appeal to shooters. The FN 509 often comes with features like interchangeable backstraps, ambidextrous controls, and a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories. The FNX-45 boasts ambidextrous controls, a threaded barrel option, and also a Picatinny rail. Customization options are abundant for both models, with a wide variety of aftermarket parts available, including holsters, sights, and internal components.
Reliability and Durability
FN is renowned for building reliable and durable firearms. The FN 509 is constructed with high-quality materials and designed to withstand rigorous use. It has been tested and proven in various conditions, making it a reliable choice for self-defense and duty. The FNX-45 also has a robust design and is built to withstand wear and tear. Both pistols are known for their rugged construction and their ability to function reliably even in challenging environments. Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring their longevity.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy fn 509 If…
- You prefer a 9mm caliber for its balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.
- You want a striker-fired pistol for its consistent trigger pull and ease of use.
- Concealed carry is a primary concern due to its slightly smaller size and lighter weight.
- You want a pistol with high magazine capacity.
Buy fnx 45 If…
- You desire the stopping power of a .45 ACP round.
- You prefer a double-action/single-action trigger system.
- You want a pistol with a proven track record for reliability and durability.
- You are comfortable with a larger pistol and prioritize maximum capacity in the .45 ACP category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary caliber of the FN 509?
The FN 509 is primarily chambered in 9mm. This caliber offers a good balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and ammunition availability, making it a popular choice for both self-defense and target shooting. 9mm ammunition is widely available and typically less expensive than larger calibers like .45 ACP, which is used by the FNX-45. This makes the FN 509 a more economical option for regular practice.
What is the main caliber used by the FNX-45?
The FNX-45 is primarily chambered in .45 ACP. This caliber is known for its substantial stopping power and ability to effectively neutralize threats. The larger bullet diameter and heavier weight of the .45 ACP round deliver significant kinetic energy upon impact. This makes the FNX-45 a favored choice among those who prioritize stopping power over other factors, such as recoil.
Which pistol is better for concealed carry?
The FN 509 is generally better suited for concealed carry. Its more compact size and lighter weight make it easier to conceal under clothing without sacrificing too much capacity or performance. The FNX-45, being significantly larger, can be more challenging to conceal comfortably, especially for individuals with smaller frames or those who prefer more discreet carry methods.
What are the magazine capacities of each pistol?
The FN 509 typically has a magazine capacity ranging from 10 to 17 rounds depending on the magazine size. The FNX-45 holds a substantial 15 rounds in its magazine, providing significant firepower in a single magazine. Both pistols offer ample capacity for self-defense situations, allowing shooters to effectively engage threats without frequent reloads.
Which pistol has a better trigger pull?
The trigger feel is subjective, but the FN 509 often features a crisp trigger pull with a shorter reset, facilitating faster follow-up shots. The FNX-45 has a smooth trigger pull, but might feel slightly heavier. Both triggers are generally considered to be of good quality, but the preference depends on individual shooter preferences and their familiarity with the specific trigger feel.
Are both pistols reliable?
Yes, both the FN 509 and FNX-45 are known for their reliability. FN is a reputable manufacturer known for producing durable and dependable firearms. Both pistols are constructed with high-quality materials and designed to withstand rigorous use. Regular maintenance and proper care are essential to ensure the continued reliability of these pistols over time.
Which pistol is more expensive?
The FNX-45 generally tends to be slightly more expensive than the FN 509. The price difference can vary depending on various factors such as the specific model, included features, and market availability. The FNX-45’s higher cost is often related to its larger caliber and more complex manufacturing processes. Despite the price difference, both pistols offer excellent value for their performance and features.
Final Verdict
The FN 509 and FNX-45 are both excellent handguns, but they cater to different needs. The FN 509 offers a more compact and versatile platform, ideal for concealed carry and general use. The FNX-45 provides increased stopping power with its .45 ACP caliber. The best choice depends on individual priorities and intended use.
Winner: FN 509