Chances are you have a Glock or might buy one down the road.
It’d be nice to have a carbine that shares both ammo and mags right?
And how about something that might be already familiar to you in the ergonomics and function of the AR-15?
Boom!
The AR-9 was born and has taken over the market ever since.
Let’s go over why they make sense and then a couple of our favorites.
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Why Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) AR-9s?
I probably already spoiled it above…
But it simply makes sense to have both your long gun and sidearm in the same caliber and magazine. Especially if you aren’t looking to expand your collection past a few firearms or are looking primarily at home defense.
Plus, we love our Glocks (Best Glock Models) and our AR-15s (AR-15 Buyer’s Guide).
And as opposed to handguns which take a lot more skill and training to shoot well…you have many more points of contact and a longer sight radius in a PCC.
Plus, with pistol-braced variants, you can have everything in a shorter package without sacrificing much.
That shorter length also allows you to add a suppressor, and since it’s an AR…endless upgrades.
AR-15 & AR-9 Parts Compatibility
A big question that comes up…how much of an existing AR-15 can you keep?
Most things are the same…but you’ll see a big difference in lowers.
First is the ejector:
And also a different magwell to handle Glock (or other pistol mags).
Also, on the lower is a different magazine catch style that I actually prefer to standard AR-15s. Different manufacturers will differ slightly…but it’s a larger/longer catch.
On the upper, you’ll have a different bolt for your specific pistol caliber that’s simpler due to most guns being direct blowback. That also means no gas block or gas tube!
And, of course, a caliber-specific barrel.
And though the lower will take any mil-spec AR-15 trigger group…I’d opt for something specifically built to handle the more recoil of the AR-9. Check out our suggestions in Best 9mm AR-15 Triggers.
Otherwise…you’re good with swapping everything else out!
Summary of Our Top Picks
Best AR-15 Pistol Caliber Carbines (AR-9)
1. Palmetto State Armory (PSA) PX-9
A major name in budget options for a wide range of firearms, the PSA PX-9 is a solid installment in their lineup.
And one of the best bang-for-the-buck starter AR-9s you can get.
Fit and finish are decent, but it will always go bang. And in the end, that’s what really matters, right?
I’ve used them for a couple of PCC competitions and had a blast.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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PSA stocks everything from complete carbines to complete lowers and complete uppers so you can build to your heart’s content.
However, it should be noted that most PSA AR-9s do not have Last Round Bolt Hold Open.
But they do make some of the best-looking AR-9s we’ve seen (or shot!).
Check out our full review here.
What’s your take on the PSA?
2. Aero Precision EPC-9
Looking for something a little more refined…and perhaps with a last round bolt hold open (LRBHO)?
Our recommendation mirrors our regular AR-15…and that’s to check out Aero Precision with their EPC-9 (Enhanced Pistol Carbine).
It’s definitely enhanced with the LRBHO as well as some small niceties that make building and using it an upgrade.
Remember the mag release? The EPC-9 might be our favorite.
And if you’re building your lower from the ground up…you’ll appreciate a threaded bolt catch to avoid marring the finish when installing.
The fire control group also has hardened pins to deal with the extra recoil from the blowback system.
But how does it shoot? In one word…great.
Check out our full review of the Aero EPC-9 here.
Want a shorter pistol AR? We’ve built an 8.3-inch barrel version and love its balance, adequate rail space, and extra maneuverability.
Want to snag one? Aero is meaning to be mostly built at home…but there are plenty of complete uppers and lowers to choose from!
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Oh, yea…we also have a video review too:
3. UDP-9 by Angstadt Arms
The UDP-9 is a finely-tuned 9mm AR-15 pistol that’s compatible with Glock and Glock aftermarket magazines.
While it does have a pretty hefty price tag, there were no corners cut when making this AR-9. Plus, it’s not afraid to eat only the steel-cased stuff.
Since the UDP-9 functions like every other standard AR-15, you don’t have to worry about getting adjusted to new controls when shooting it for the first time.
We have a complete article on the UDP-9.
If you’re looking for a high-end AR-9…check out the UDP-9.
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And you know it…a video!
4. Foxtrot Mike FM-9B
Looking for a small AR-9? Check out the Foxtrot Mike FM-9B.
There are 10-inch, 5-inch, and 4-inch variants. And here we have their tiniest bois!
A little too close for my comfort, but even without a folding stock, you’re good to go inside a gray man backpack.
I’d much rather have a QD suppressor ready if you go with the 4-inch variant.
But 10 inches will give you a good amount of usable rail space and lower the possibility of losing some digits.
It’s also reasonably priced and comes with last round bolt hold open.
Check out our full review of the FM-9B to see what other aspects we liked.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And we also have a video review as well:
5. Palmetto State Armory AR-V
PSA hits our list again, but this time with the AR-V…a decently priced PCC with a unique twist.
Using either PSA’s proprietary AK-V/AR-V magazines, the AR-V can also use CZ Scorpion EVO mags.
We dig this PCC’s ability to give you some options in terms of mags, especially if you already own a Scorpion or PSA’s 9mm AK variant.
Operating with a 10.5-inch barrel covered by a PSA 9-inch M-LOK handguard, we found the AR-V to be pretty reliable and accurate.
It has a matching mag release that is on the AK-V and takes a little bit of getting used to…but it is great once you do.
Of course, you can check out the review here to learn more.
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And yes…a full video review on the AR-V!
6. CMMG Banshee Series
Want to look down on all these blowback guns with an air of superiority?
Check out CMMG’s Banshee series, which relies on a proprietary “radial delayed blowback” gas system that seriously cuts down on recoil, especially during rapid fire.
There are, of course, 9mm variants…but been there done that…we hands-on tested their 10mm.
And from our reviewer’s mouth…”it ran like a scalded dog” by eating up that extra oomph and making the 10mm feel like 9mm.
There are also different levels of awesomeness within the Banshee series…from the 100 to the 200 to our tested 300. It comes with everything you might want already upgraded.
Plus, it looks great.
Check out our full review here. Or even check out a full review of the 5.7 Upper.
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7. Sig Sauer MPX
Here’s another high-end AR-9 option…that scoffs at the idea of a simple blowback action.
The Sig MPX uses a short piston recoil system that lets you get rid of the buffer tube for a nice compact package, especially in a pistol format.
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Everything will be familiar to a standard AR-15 and with the added bonus of nice ambidextrous controls as well.
It shot flawlessly for us and was a joy suppressed.
And in the dark…
Check out our full review of the MPX for all the details. This might be our favorite AR-9 based option at this time.
See it in all its glory in our video:
8. B&T APC9 PRO
Want another high-end PCC to consider? Then look no further than the APC9 Pro from Brügger & Thomet.
Made in Switzerland, the APC9 Pro is one of the most flexible guns on this list as it is capable of running B&T, Glock, and Sig Sauer P320 magazines based upon which lower you select.
And while the forend isn’t very long, the dual, auto-folding, non-reciprocating charging handles won’t get in your way. This helps keep the overall profile very compact.
The controls are a pretty familiar blend, and the APC9 Pro handles very well. Felt recoil is manageable and even tame when a suppressor is used – but don’t forget the adapter because the barrel has the European tri-lug setup.
All this capability comes at a lofty price, though!
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You know you wanna read more on this neat, little gun, so check out our full review or peep the video below!
Final Thoughts
So, in summary, AR-9s are a fun blend of a handgun caliber and a carbine length. We’ve given you some of our favorite AR-9s from budget creations…
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to more bang-for-the-buck options that come with a last round bolt hold-open option.
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And our current favorite with the Sig MPX.
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Still looking for other PCC options? Check out our non-AR-specific article Best Pistol Caliber Carbines for more ideas.
52 Leave a Reply
What about the Extar xp9?
So I got the exact parts list from Aero Precision for the EPC-9. The upper and lower alone more than double this review's price quote. I understand prices will vary, but tell me please... where do you shop??
Weird how both the UDT and the Foxtrot Mike "carbines" are both pistols.
Oh wait, this is the same dumbass who couldn't keep carbine and pistol straight on the other article, either.
Taken from Eric's bio: " I became my group's "gun guy" and everyone who had questions came to me. "
So, question, how come you don't know the difference between a rifle and a pistol?
Awesome article . I would love to get my hands on a PCC. the only problem I have is, why the heck do they charge so much for a PCC. especially and specifically the AR-9. it is direct blow back BCG and no gas block, but charge a way higher price for an AR-9 then what you can buy or build an actual AR-15 rifle or pistol. when the AR-9 uses less parts and is easier to build. I can keep ranting but at this point if you haven't figured out what I am talking about, then you just don't get it either way. I guess it is just me being a poor, and having to watch every dime I spend, and a PCC has alluded my grasp over price for awhile now.
Great article, but once again Y'all left "American Resistance Gear". I own one of their breakdown 9mm Pistols. It is an EXCELLENT shooter. I've had many friends and fellow shooters look at mine, put a few rounds thru it. I show em how simple it breaks down and stashes in a small back pack. The next words I usually hear is "I gotta get me one of these". Heck you could even put it in your Truck center console if it was deep enough.......You really should look into them Pew Pew. Just saying. Oh! and they are in Texas!!
Appreciate your site and this is another great article.... would love to see the same article but with only side-charging 9mm braced pistols - ie the B&T and Scorpion playing with their cousins. Thanks for laying it all out there for us. Really helps on the research and knowledge. Off to research FM products!
That California pistolarifle looks stupid. MOVE. There's no way I would waste my time building my rifle with stupid looking parts like that. MOVE.
If there's a nut anywhere in the country, he'll find his way to California. –my grandmother...
Otherwise, I did enjoy the write up. Lots of stuff featured...and maybe I do know that you all feature the commie built guns to encourage people living within that region..
WARNING: BATF may make ALL Pistol Control Carbines with Pistol Control stocks subject to NFA rules: meaning you will HAVE to pay $200 for NFA mandatory federal gun registration and they have no accommodation for so-called "grand-fathering" so if you don't want to pay the fee & register your guns with the feds, then the only option is to turn it in unless you'd like to be a felon!
Sorry for being the bearer of bad news: but that's what is what is being proposed by your so-called elected officials!
Forgot Extar EP9 and MechTech complete upper carbine conversion unit (CCU) covering most Glocks including 10mm Glock 20. See Hickok 45 review.
I have an FM Lower with a PSA upper. Works great.
I went the mag well insert since I had an AR-15 lower laying about. Now I have a nice little AR-9 with the EPC-9 upper that takes S&W M&P mags. The mag release is now on the bottom front of the mag well. It's different but t I like it.
I just viewed your sit and I can feel myself getting hard...like a real man! Thank you
You are better off saving your pennies and buying something of high-quality rather than something that’s adequate. My first build was with PSA I ended up Sending the upper back to the factory several times. The gun would only fire 115 grain ammo in bowl full metal jacket and Hornady critical defense 115 grain reliably everything else either jammed or got stuck. I did a 300blackout build using parts from Hanover Armory absolutely no problems. Currently Angstadt arms Has a sale on a complete 9 mm upper for $400 and the lower cost around $500 I can build the whole thing and have something amazing that I can further customize at a later date for under $1000.
I bought a 9mm AR form Zavier firearms and it will not chamber any hollow points only FMJ. Is that common among these or just some.
Being left handed and wanting to perform mag swaps without completely changing my purchase on the firearm i was “stuck” buying” the sig (lol). Do you know of any other options? Thanks!
Late response but KE Arms has an ambidextrous lower for AR PCCs. Match that with an upper that has a last round bolt hold open and you're set.
One I love is the 9mm Brigade Battle Pistol U-LOK by Brigade Manufacturing
Just ordered the 9inch version, will review after range visit. Plenty of positive comments, esp. re: customer service. I ordered factory direct to my FFL...great price, LRBHO was a big selling point.
Aaaaaannnd Once AGAIN, you guys go all Pimp for the "Big Name" gun makers but forget about some of the best gun makers out there that aren't well known. BUT should be known by PEW PEW
Tactical at the very least !!!
American Resistance in Nacogdoches(I believe) Tx, needs to be on Y'all's radar. They make and build some of the BEST and affordable PCC's and AR's on the market. PERIOD !!
Look into it. Trust me, You won't be disappointed.
But then again, I'm guessing y'all don't read these comments much anyway.
Thanks.
I often wonder about what manufacturers not receiving press time. Good to know of another American manufacturer.
AMERICAN RESISTANCE AR-9 TAKEDOWN PISTOL looks like a great pack arm.
Will check YouTube A. R. reviews.
I have that very one Roger..... You will LOVE IT !! Stuff it into a backpack and/or behind the backseat of the truck. Shoots and Runs like a Champ. Glock 30 rnd. mags, and you are GTG !!
Hey Kurtis, thanks for the feedback. We appreciate your suggestion and will definitely look into American Resistance.
I AM Impressed, You read my comment...... American Resistance's owner is a Great guy also, (I can't remember his name. Forgive me, I'm old...LOL) and is one of the reasons I pulled the trigger on buying the AR-9mm takedown 5-6 yrs. ago.
Anyway, tell em' I sent ya. You won't be disappointed.
I realize a little more money, Nevertheless, American made Wilson Combat and Christiansen Arms AR-9s caused me to continue cramming money into my piggy bank. Wilson Combat, work of art, more money and 4-6 months wait time. I chose Christiansen Arms. Match grade Carbon fiber wrapped barrel and aluminum/carbon fiber barrel guard. Match grade trigger. Nine days after order, my baby arrived.
On the other hand I could have purchased two less expensive firearms.
So appreciate all Pew Pews articles. My go to source.
Thank you
Thanks for reading!
I’d remove Angstadt Arms from the list. I bought one and it fired every time on bolt close. When I contacted them, they revealed that they are aware that the triggers have issues but they haven’t done anything about it. I’ve still seen guns on the shelves with that trigger in it (The Timney PCC trigger).
They have had it for 2.5 weeks and done absolutely nothing. There’s other videos of people who have had issues as well.
To clarify, it would fire when I closed the bolt (but without pulling the trigger) and would also double fire at the range.
on mine the factory and aftermarket magazines come out unlatch with a small jerk back and fort! i contacted costumer service and they wanna give me the round around! gun is great but they need to fix this! costumer service sucks too wouldn't recommend for $1500!!!!!
I was told by a man at a gun store this was his choice if he were to buy one...I'm also looking at a banshee any thoughts never owned a 9mm ar. Thanks....
Chuck
Hello?! JP GMR-15? Don't write an article called "Best Pistol Caliber AR-15 Carbines (That Take Glock Mags)" and exclude arguably the best one.
Surpised CMMG and its delayed blowback didn't make the cut.
The CMMG Banshee 300 is what I ended up deciding on.
How do you like it.
I would add the Beretta CX4 Storm PCC bull pup. It’s magazines are compatible with the .92fs and did I mention it is a BERETTA!!
Terrible plastic stock trigger, hard to find, little aftermarket support. Yes, fun, and I'd love to own one, but not among the best. Esp if Ruger PCC doesn't even make the cut.
Your magazine capacity and compatibility chart is titled "high capacity" when all options listed are standard capacity.
There are true high capacity 30+ round magazines in 9mm, 40S&W, and even 45ACP available in Glock style mags. Not to mention drums that will work with Glock style feed systems, again in all three of the above mentioned calibers, usually around 50 rounds per.
These are all 9mm..... Any of these in .45?
Nordic components?
The mags are interchangeable from larger to smaller frame sizes of the same caliber, with the exception of single stack mags. The G19 mag will fit the G26 but does not fit the 17. G17 will fit the G19 and G26.
I purchased the Ruger PC9 and I am loving it. It works with every Glock magazine that I own and shoots great. The price was great also.
Yeah.....I do not see the extra $$, being worth spending on a AR-15 model for 9mm....except that they look much cooler...personally I use a gun as a tool,the ruger does everything an AR 9 mm does...gor half the price!
Eh. Half? Palmetto PA9 for $550...ruger pc9 for $550...i dont think you use the term "half" in the same way as the rest of us.
Get it in 10mm, 45acp or 460 Rowland then we will talk!
Actually, a number of these are available in .45! I don't know about 10mm, but I found this guy from PSA (its out of stock right now, but I called and they have more on the way): http://palmettostatearmory.com/blem-psa-ar-45-16-45-acp-1-16-nitride-keymod-classic-rifle-516446312.html
Angstadt also does a UDP-45 and AR-45 receivers if you want to roll your own.
UDP-45: https://angstadtarms.com/product/udp-45-pistol-brace/
Receivers: https://angstadtarms.com/0940-receiver-set/
For about $650 I built an amazing AR-9 SBR through PSA. Haven’t had an issue yet and I was constantly hitting a 6” steel circle at 80 yds standing with a proper red dot. I’m obsessed with the pistol caliber ARs even if I do get ridiculed...” why do you need that?”
Great to hear...I have a 9mm PSA on the way and I'll have a full review up.
I like your style and would love to see your setup!
No CMMG Guard 9mm?
For double the$.....no thanks!
Personally, I’m loving my Ruger PC carbine more than these choices. PC takes Glock magazines and is priced to Sale a butt load. It’s a very dependable gun. Hopefully pew pew will review and show everyone why you need a PC carbine in your safe.
Yup...trying to get our hands on one!