Pictured is the FNS-9 LS, the 9mm version of the pistol adopted by the Baltimore County Police Department.
FNH USA announced the Baltimore County (MD) Police Department adopted the FNS-40 LS pistol as the agency’s new duty firearm.
The FNS-40 LS is a polymer-framed, striker-fired semiautomatic pistol. The FNS guns are double action and normally have a manual safety. However, the FNS-40 LS does not have a manual safety. It is not known if this was a special build requirement by the department, or if all of the new LS models will be without a manual safety.
It is chambered in .40 S&W and standard magazines hold 14 rounds.
The model adopted by BCPD is the long slide version, which gives the officers a 5″ barrel instead of the standard 4″. The extra length will give officers a longer sight radius to work with, plus ammunition will be able to achieve maximum velocity. With many departments issuing pistols with a 4″-4.5″ barrel, the 5″ barrel is slightly unusual, but not a bad choice.
FNS-40 LS Specifications
| caliber | .40 S&W |
| standard magazine capacity | 14 rounds |
| barrel length | 5" |
| frame | black polymer |
| trigger | double action, 5.5 - 7.7 lbs pull |
| grip | interchangeable backstraps |
| sights | Sevigny Carry made by Warren Tactical |
According to the FNH USA announcement, BCPD is the largest agency to adopt one of the FNS pistols as a sidearm. The agency employs roughly 1,900 sworn officers, and the company will deliver 1,920 pistols to the department.
I’ve not had a chance to shoot one of the FNS pistols, though I have talked to several people who have. Everyone tells me they like the FNS series pistols. Going with a non-standard pistol creates a potential problem of finding accessories such as holsters. Hopefully, BCPD has all of their ducks in a row, and the officers will be well served by the choice of this firearm.