Fn 509c vs Glock 19: Which Compact 9mm Reigns?
Choosing the right concealed carry firearm can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s crucial to find a pistol that balances size, reliability, and shootability. Two popular contenders often top the list: the FN 509c and the Glock 19. Both offer compelling features for everyday carry, but they cater to different preferences.
This in-depth comparison dives into the specifics of the FN 509c and the Glock 19, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses. We’ll examine everything from ergonomics and handling to performance and aftermarket support. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time gun owner, this guide will help you determine which pistol best suits your needs. We’ll analyze aspects like the grip, trigger, and overall build quality of both the FN 509c and the Glock 19. Get ready to discover which compact 9mm emerges victorious in this head-to-head battle.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | fn 509c | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity (Standard) | 12/15 rounds | 15 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.7 inches | 7.36 inches |
| Height | 4.8 inches | 5.0 inches |
| Width | 1.1 inches | 1.26 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 23.4 oz | 23.63 oz |
| Action | Striker-fired | Striker-fired |
| Sights | 3-dot | 3-dot |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel | Steel |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5-7.7 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size & Dimensions
- Fn 509c: The FN 509 Compact is a subcompact pistol, designed for concealed carry. It has a shorter barrel and grip than the Glock 19, making it easier to conceal. However, this smaller size can impact grip comfort and capacity.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is a compact pistol, offering a balance between concealability and shootability. It’s larger than the 509c, providing a more comfortable grip and higher capacity magazine. This makes it slightly harder to conceal than the 509c.
- Winner: fn 509c
Weight
- Fn 509c: The FN 509c is generally lighter than the Glock 19 due to its smaller size and reduced material. This makes it more comfortable for all-day concealed carry, but can contribute to slightly more felt recoil.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is heavier than the 509c, which can help absorb recoil and improve shootability. This added weight can make it less comfortable for concealed carry, especially for extended periods.
- Winner: fn 509c
Magazine Capacity
- Fn 509c: Typically ships with magazines holding 12 or 15 rounds. The capacity is good for a compact pistol and offers a good balance.
- Glock 19: Generally ships with 15-round magazines, with larger capacity magazines available. This offers a slight advantage in terms of round count.
- Winner: glock 19
Trigger
- Fn 509c: The FN 509c typically features a crisper and more defined trigger pull compared to the Glock 19. This can enhance accuracy for some shooters.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 has a simple, consistent, but often less refined trigger feel. This is a common point of upgrade for many Glock owners.
- Winner: fn 509c
Ergonomics & Grip
- Fn 509c: The FN 509c often features a more textured grip and better ergonomics for a wider range of hand sizes. This often enhances control, but can be less forgiving for smaller hands.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 has a more straightforward grip design that is generally comfortable, but may feel less secure in the hand compared to the FN 509c for some shooters.
- Winner: fn 509c
Aftermarket Support
- Fn 509c: The FN 509 series has growing aftermarket support, but it still lags behind Glock in terms of available parts, accessories, and customization options.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 has extensive aftermarket support, with a vast array of parts, accessories, and modifications available. This allows for extensive customization.
- Winner: glock 19
Price
- Fn 509c: The FN 509c is often priced competitively, but may be slightly more expensive than a standard Glock 19, depending on the specific configuration.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is generally known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Winner: glock 19
Reliability & Durability
- Fn 509c: The FN 509 series is known for its reliability and durability, built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is renowned for its exceptional reliability and durability, and its reputation makes it a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel.
- Winner: glock 19
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Concealed Carry | fn 509c |
| Ergonomics | Tie |
| Aftermarket Support | Glock 19 |
| Reliability | Tie |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Caliber: Both the FN 509c and Glock 19 are chambered in the popular 9mm Luger caliber, offering a balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. This makes ammunition readily available and suitable for a wide range of shooters.
- Action: Both pistols utilize a striker-fired action, known for its consistent trigger pull and ease of use. This design contributes to their overall reliability and straightforward operation.
- Frame Material: Both handguns feature polymer frames, which contribute to their lightweight nature, durability, and resistance to corrosion. This material choice is a standard in modern handgun design.
- Magazine Release: Both pistols have a magazine release button, allowing for quick and efficient magazine changes during reloads. The location and design of the button may vary slightly.
- Sights: Both pistols typically come equipped with basic 3-dot sights, providing a standard aiming solution. These can be easily upgraded to aftermarket options for improved target acquisition.
Fn 509C vs Glock 19 Buying Guide
Concealability
The FN 509C, being a compact pistol, inherently offers a slight edge in concealability compared to the Glock 19. Its smaller dimensions, particularly the shorter barrel and grip, make it easier to conceal under various clothing types. The Glock 19, while still concealable, is a slightly larger, bulkier pistol. This difference is more noticeable during summer months or when wearing tighter fitting clothes. The choice depends on your daily carry needs and body type. Consider your preferred carry position and clothing style when making your decision.
Ergonomics and Handling
Both pistols are known for their comfortable ergonomics, but with distinct differences. The Glock 19 features a more blocky feel with a slightly larger grip. The FN 509C has a more aggressive grip texture and a more ergonomic grip angle, which some shooters find more comfortable, especially for those with smaller hands. The Glock 19’s grip can be customized with aftermarket accessories, while the FN 509C’s grip is generally considered more comfortable out of the box. Ultimately, handling is a matter of personal preference, and trying both is recommended.
Trigger and Accuracy
The trigger feel and accuracy are crucial factors. The Glock 19’s trigger is known for its simplicity and predictability, while the FN 509C has a more refined trigger with a shorter reset. Accuracy can be similar, with both pistols capable of excellent performance in the hands of a skilled shooter. The trigger pull weight and feel can impact accuracy. Consider your shooting style and preferences when evaluating the trigger. Both pistols benefit from practice and consistent training.
Reliability and Durability
Both the FN 509C and Glock 19 are renowned for their reliability and durability. Glocks, in particular, have a long-standing reputation for functioning flawlessly in various conditions. The FN 509C has also proven to be a reliable pistol, with positive feedback from users. Both pistols are built with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand significant use. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Choose the one you trust.
Capacity and Magazine Compatibility
The Glock 19 typically offers a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, while the FN 509C often comes with magazines holding 12 rounds. Both pistols offer extended magazine options for increased capacity. Magazine compatibility can be a factor if you already own magazines for one platform. The availability and cost of magazines should be considered. Ensure you have enough magazines for training and self-defense purposes. Both pistols are well-supported in this area.
Price and Availability
The Glock 19 often has a slight price advantage due to its widespread availability and established market presence. The FN 509C, while competitively priced, may be slightly more expensive. The availability of both pistols is generally good, but prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer and current market conditions. Consider the total cost of ownership, including the price of the pistol, magazines, and any additional accessories. Research prices from various dealers to find the best deal.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy fn 509c If…
- You prefer a slightly more compact pistol for easier concealed carry.
- You appreciate the aggressive grip texture for enhanced control.
- You want a pistol with a unique, modern aesthetic.
- You value the FN 509’s overall ergonomics and feel in the hand.
Buy glock 19 If…
- You prioritize a proven and highly reliable handgun with a long track record.
- You want a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available.
- You prefer the Glock’s simple and consistent operating system.
- You appreciate the Glock’s reputation for durability and ease of maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary differences between the FN 509C and the Glock 19?
The main differences lie in size, ergonomics, and trigger feel. The FN 509C is more compact, making it easier to conceal. It often features a more aggressive grip texture and a slightly better trigger. The Glock 19 is a bit larger, with a more simple and predictable trigger, and a generally more affordable option.
Which pistol is better for concealed carry?
The FN 509C generally has an edge in concealability due to its smaller size. The Glock 19 can be concealed, but its larger frame might require more consideration of clothing and carry methods. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your body type and concealment preferences. Both are viable options.
How do the triggers compare between the two pistols?
The Glock 19 has a simple, consistent trigger known for its predictability. The FN 509C typically features a more refined trigger with a shorter reset, which some shooters prefer. Both are reliable, but the feel is different. Try both triggers to see which you prefer, as it’s a matter of preference.
Which pistol is more accurate?
Both pistols are capable of excellent accuracy. Accuracy is more dependent on the shooter’s skill and training than the pistol itself. While the triggers differ, both can be accurate with practice. Factors like sight picture and grip play a more significant role in achieving accuracy.
What is the magazine capacity of each pistol?
The Glock 19 typically comes with 15-round magazines, while the FN 509C often comes with 12-round magazines. Both pistols offer extended magazine options for increased capacity. Check local laws and regulations regarding magazine capacity restrictions before purchasing.
Which pistol is more affordable?
The Glock 19 is often slightly more affordable due to its wider availability and established market presence. The FN 509C is competitively priced, but the cost can vary. Consider the overall cost of ownership, including the pistol price, magazine costs, and potential accessory expenses.
Which pistol is more reliable?
Both pistols are known for their reliability. Glock has a long-standing reputation for dependable performance. The FN 509C has also proven to be highly reliable. Both are built with quality materials and are designed to endure significant use. Proper maintenance is key to maximizing reliability.
Final Verdict
Both the FN 509C and the Glock 19 are excellent pistols, each with its own strengths. The FN 509C offers a more compact design and ergonomic grip, which may appeal to those prioritizing concealability and a more refined trigger. The Glock 19 provides proven reliability, a simple trigger, and a slightly lower price point. The best choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences.
Winner: Tie