Apex 5.00" Slide for FN 509 - ACRO/MPS Slide Cut
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 12.8 oz — 1.4 oz lighter than factory FN 509 slide
- Accepts ACRO/MPS optics directly — eliminates adapter plates
- Ported for reduced muzzle rise — pairs with Apex ported barrel
Trade-offs
- No internals included — requires sourcing or $200-$300 completion kit
- PVD finish may wear faster than DLC — shows holster marks after 500 draws
- Limited to 5.00″ barrels only — not compatible with compact FN 509 models
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Apex 5.00″ Slide for FN 509 - ACRO/MPS Slide Cut? This stripped slide replaces the factory FN 509 slide with precision-machined aluminum and an ACRO/MPS optic cut, requiring the user to supply internals and a barrel. Built for competitors and duty carriers seeking reduced muzzle rise through porting, it maintains full compatibility with FN factory components while adding serration options and suppressor-height sights.
What is the Apex 5.00″ Slide used for?
This slide is used for upgrading FN 509 pistols to accept Aimpoint ACRO or Holosun MPS optics while reducing muzzle rise via ported barrel pairing. It requires transfer of factory internals or purchase of a completion kit, making it ideal for competitive shooting or duty use where fast follow-up shots and optic readiness are critical. The 5.00-inch length and porting configuration prioritize flat shooting over concealment.
How does the Apex 5.00″ Slide compare to the FN Factory Slide?
The Apex slide is better for optic mounting and recoil management, while the FN factory slide is more cost-effective for stock configurations. Weighing 12.8 oz versus the factory slide’s 14.2 oz, it saves 1.4 oz through machined aluminum construction and porting, though it necessitates a barrel swap for full functionality. The ACRO/MPS cut provides direct mounting without plates, unlike the factory slide which requires adapters for most optics.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The slide weighs 12.8 oz and measures 5.00 inches in length, 1.12 inches in width, and 0.98 inches in height. These dimensions ensure compatibility with FN 509 frames and holsters designed for full-size models, while the reduced weight aids in faster cycling and less perceived recoil. The porting adds 0.25-inch cuts to align with Apex ported barrels.
Who is this NOT for?
This slide is not for users unwilling to source internals or those seeking a drop-in solution. It requires technical assembly, including barrel fitting and sight installation, which may deter casual owners or those without access to gunsmithing tools. For simpler upgrades, consider the Action Enhancement Kit for CZ P-10, which requires fewer steps.
What’s in the box?
The box contains the stripped slide with installed suppressor-height sights and a PVD finish, weighing 12.8 oz as shipped. No internals, barrel, or optic are included, necessitating transfer from a factory slide or purchase of a completion kit. The packaging includes a 1.5-oz foam insert to prevent finish damage during transit.
Is the Apex 5.00″ Slide worth it at $400?
At $400, it is worth it for competitors and duty users needing optic readiness and recoil reduction, but overpriced for casual shooters. The cost excludes internals and a barrel, adding $200-$300 for a full setup, though the precision machining and porting justify the price for performance gains. For context, the 4" Pillar File costs $45 and serves a different gunsmithing niche.
Key attributes
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 5.00 in |
| Weight | 12.8 oz |
| Finish | Black PVD |
| Optic Cut | ACRO/MPS |
| Sights | Suppressor height |
| Material | Precision-machined aluminum |
| Serrations | Lightning bolt or classic |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with FN 509 factory internals?
- Yes, it accepts all factory FN 509 internals without modification. You must transfer them from your existing slide or purchase new components from Midwest Gunworks or Brownells. The slide is machined to FN specifications for drop-in fit.
- Does it fit Holosun MPS optics directly?
- Yes, the slide cut is designed for direct mounting of Holosun MPS or Aimpoint ACRO optics without adapter plates. It uses a standardized footprint that aligns with these models, reducing height over bore by 0.15 inches compared to plate systems.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days within the continental US via UPS Ground. Express options are available for an additional fee, reducing transit time to 1-2 days. International orders may require 7-10 days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my barrel?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the slide is unused and in original packaging, but compatibility issues with non-Apex barrels may void eligibility. Contact Apex Customer Service for pre-purchase fit confirmation to avoid returns.