FN FNP

The FN FNP pistol is a series of semi-automatic, polymer-framed pistols manufactured in Columbia, SC, by FNH USA, a division of Fabrique Nationale de Herstal. The pistol debuted in early 2006 and is chambered for the 9×19mm Parabellum, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and .357 SIG cartridges.

Standard features

All variations of the pistol include ambidextrous decocking levers and a reversible magazine release, as well as an integrated tactical accessory rail. In addition, the FNP-45 offers an ambidextrous slide release.

According to FNH USA, the FNP line of pistols is the only polymer-framed autoloading pistol on the market (as of its introduction) with fully replaceable frame rails; this allows the pistol to be rebuilt after extensive firing, thereby extending service life. (Steyr M Series pistols also have this feature, and were released in 1999.)

Design and operation

The FNP series weapons are hammer fired weapons utilizing a Browning cam system with an external extractor. The trigger module is housed inside the polymer frame as an individual unit connected to the hammer. The magazine release button is held in place by a retention pin which can be removed to allow the magazine release button to be reversed. The trigger pull for the FNP-9 variant is generally 8 pounds while in double action and 3–4 pounds while in single action. While the lower frame is made of high-strength polymer, the slide is made of stainless steel.