Short look,a few rounds at range demo day:
The SA35 has good factory sights except for the current fad of a U notch.
The thumb safety is just right for me.
The trigger is not really light but is lighter than the last FN I shot. It is rather creepy; maybe you could polish it up and call it a "roll trigger."
The front strap is indeed broad and smooth, you have no expectation of steel checkering on a sub $700 gun, I would just apply grip tape.
The finish is a very matte blue-gray. Again, the price can't cover a nice polish.
If they want to sponsor Team Mediocre with one, I want a fibre optic front sight, trigger tune, Talon tape on front strap.