Training Replica: FNS-40 5"

The FNS-40 5" (Long Slide) is the competition-oriented version of the FNS series. While the 4-inch model was the standard duty choice, the "LS" or "Longslide" was designed for USPSA, IDPA, and target shooters who wanted to stay with the .40 S&W caliber but needed a longer sight radius and better recoil management. It was famously chosen as the primary duty sidearm for the Baltimore County Police Department in 2011, making it one of the few long-slide pistols to see widespread law enforcement adoption.

Key Design Elements

• Extended 5-Inch Barrel: The primary upgrade is the cold hammer-forged stainless steel barrel. The extra inch of length provides a boost in muzzle velocity and significantly increases the sight radius (6.9 inches), which directly improves long-range accuracy.

• Recoil Management: The added mass of the longer slide and barrel helps soak up the "snappy" recoil impulse of the .40 S&W cartridge. Shooters often describe the FNS-40 Long Slide as feeling much more like a 9mm in terms of control.

• Striker-Fired Precision: It shares the same trigger as the standard FNS, breaking between 5.5 and 7.7 lbs with a very positive, short reset. In the 5" model, this trigger combined with the longer slide makes it a formidable tool for "Production Class" competition.

• Fully Ambidextrous: True to the FNS lineage, the 5" model features dual-sided slide stop levers and dual-sided magazine releases, making it equally capable for left-handed operators.

• Interchangeable Backstraps: Includes both flat and arched backstraps. The 5" model also features a flared magazine well (molded into the frame) that guides magazines in for faster reloads under stress.

FNS-40 (4") vs. FNS-40 (5")

Technical Specifications

Performance Notes

The FNS-40 Long Slide is often considered a "hidden gem" on the used market. Because many police agencies (like Baltimore County) transitioned to 9mm or moved to the FN 509 series, these 5-inch models often appear as "Police Trade-Ins" at very low prices ($350�$425). Despite being discontinued, it remains a robust, accurate, and high-capacity platform that is built to handle heavy firing schedules.

Maintenance Tip: The FNS-40L uses a unique recoil spring assembly specifically tuned for the 5-inch slide. If you are buying one used, ensure the recoil spring is still within its service life, as the heavier slide requires proper spring tension to prevent frame battering.