Posted on 11/16/2018 4:00:44 AM PST by thefactor
As a police officer and soldier I was relatively embarrassed when I thought of posting this question/thread, but I told myself to get over it and ask for help from people who know.
Bottom Line Up Front: I want a 9mm "pistol" utilizing the AR platform. Commonly referred to as an AR-9. My question is, should I buy one or should I undertake the task of building one?
Although I have significant experience with many types of firearms, I have no experience "building" a firearm by ordering parts from different companies and assembling them. I have done a significant amount of research on this subject via the internet as well as seeking out and speaking to experts. The problem is, everyone has different advice that seems to contradict what others have said. So I'm coming here.
Should I just spend the few extra hundred bucks and get a complete weapon that fits all my expectations, or should I undertake the task of building one?
I am looking for a short-barreled (around a 5" barrel) 9mm "pistol" that takes Glock mags.
Why not buy one, to ensure that you have a quality weapon on hand at all times, and then build one for the education?
That banshee is a beauty. I might consider compiling a list of all the Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCC) in 9mm that might scratch your itch before you decide. You’re obviously taking the time to do some research.... might as well see all the options (there are a lot).
Curiosity? Have you fired one of these yet? Personally I don’t like them, can’t hit a thing with it after the first shot rapid fire. If you haven’t you might want to arrange this before you consider it more.
I would point out that you will learn a lot by building your own. You will learn even more if you cnc or 3d print the frame. So ask yourself, how much do you want to know about firearms / your gun?
Never had a desire for the AR platform, I’m with Sgt. Maj. Plumley on this one. Rather have an AK platform. Built a lot of different firearms and always ran into fitting issues when mixing parts. And you can’t put material back after it has been removed.
They have nice lowers and uppers already assembled you can buy and “slap them together” to save some time, and/or worry if you are worried about building. This will also save a lot of money versus buying one built complete.
I would build the lower and buy the assembled upper. Less tools needed and you can customize everything such as the trigger, handle, pistol stock, etc... I have gone through several various sights in the past, some with clearance and daily deals such as:
Palmetto State Armory
Red Barn
Classic Firearms.
Keep in mind you will have to have the lower shipped to a FFL dealer. Being in Law enforcement I’m sure you know the details.
As other have said, there are some great resources out there and videos detailing exactly how to build. I would do your research and check out some sights for assembly.
Look foreword to seeing what you go with, and keep us posted. Love AR Porn
Building isn't rocket science ... and IS lots of fun. The internet abounds with "how to" resources. Do some research, and build it.
That is a good question for him and you are correct on not being very accurate after first engagement. I have shot a couple of SBRs and machine pistols and all seemed to drift from rise and twist.
If you do build/buy one, tune it with a QUALITY flash suppressor and crush washers to remove as much of this as possible.
Good luck and thanks for all of your service. There is a crap load of people in America who do not deserve it anymore.
I would second this and add that CMMG is VERY GOOD STUFF.
You won’t go wrong either way.
Yep, an on target double tap is next to impossible.
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I’ve put together a number of AR’s. It isn’t hard, nor does it require a lot of special tools. There are a few, such as a wrench and an action block that I think pretty essential, and they are fun to build. Having said that, you won’t save much, if any money. The lower will still have to be purchased through an FFL. The advantage of buying assembled is it is ready to shoot when you get it. Building yourself, you get to choose brands of components, barrels and triggers, if that makes a difference. Some places you can purchase them already assembled will let you choose some of the components, as well. If this is going to be a one time acquisition, I’d probably just buy it and be done, if you intend on owning others based on that platform, build it and enjoy the project!
You are going to want a 9” + barrel to make the most of 9mm velocities, making 9mm MUCH more attractive. Make sure you get threaded barrel for suppressors.
This thread is full of bad advice.
That pistol will be neat when it’s done. It won’t be loud, it won’t be “inaccurate” and it will be a fun toy. I have some input to the process:
Finding the upper parts that this demands, if you buy it outside of a complete kit, it going to be tough. The upper is pretty custom though. That barrel, the gas system and the bolt carrier are especially tough to source and may require some customization.
The tooling for an AR armorer is readily available, but expect to pay about $400 for the tools if you have nothing. You can sell the tools after, or use them again of course but my number is a lot more reasonable for the first-time buyer and user of such tools.
Pistol braces are MEGA expensive and I can’t figure out why. The SBR tax stamp is $200 but so is the premium over these more advanced cheek welds and braces. Consider changing that design slightly and you can see some major price savings.
Finally, have you considered a RONI for the glock ? I know that if you want the AR pistol you want the AR pistol, but the RONI allows you to put your service glock into a braced pistol package for much, much less. And while it’s not familiar AR control, you can take your glock out of it in a matter of a minute.
I would also consider getting a “Just Right Carbine” 9mm glock setup, setting up the new barrel lengths and modifying that to make what you want instead of the 1500 route. If you get the JRC you’ll drop about $500 and then you’ll be able to swap out parts until you create this 5” barrel pistol.
That 5” barrel is where things get complex on the AR.
Good luck !
Bkmrk.
Israeli Weapons Industry makes a beautiful social work tool. https://iwi.us/product/tavor-sar-9mm/
I built an AR-15 by assembling pieces. A great way to become very knowledgable. Go for it.
ping for later
You can buy AR-9 receivers and AR-9 kits. If you can assemble something from Ikea, you are overqualified to assemble an AR platform.
Some of you have said that tools are needed to assemble weapons like the one I have described. I had not anticipated that. My problem is I have zero workspace. I live in a small apartment in NYC, and I only have tools necessary to hang pictures on my walls.
At this point I may purchase a complete firearm that meets my criteria while developing a solid plan for building an AR9/AR15 in the future.
As expected, your advice and insights did not disappoint. Any further comments, feel free!
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