Understanding the AR9 and its Evolution
The AR9 platform has surged in popularity, evolving from a niche interest into a dominant force in the pistol-caliber carbine market. Its adaptability, modular design, and the availability of affordable 9mm ammunition have solidified its appeal. But what truly sets the AR9 apart is its potential for customization, allowing shooters to tailor the firearm to their specific needs and preferences. One of the most significant upgrades available is a side charging AR9 upper, offering a different charging method that promises improved ergonomics and enhanced user experience. This article will dive deep into the world of side charging AR9 uppers, exploring their advantages in terms of ergonomics, customization, and overall shooting experience, while also providing guidance on selecting the right one for your specific needs and build.
The AR9, at its core, is an AR-15-style rifle chambered in 9mm. This simple modification opens up a whole new world of possibilities. The AR platform is renowned for its modularity. Many components are interchangeable, allowing for a vast range of customization.
The standard AR platform utilizes a rear charging handle, located at the back of the upper receiver. This design, while functional, can be less than ideal for certain shooting styles and scenarios. The side charging AR9 upper represents a significant shift in this paradigm, relocating the charging handle to the side of the upper receiver. This seemingly small change offers some surprisingly large benefits.
Advantages of a Side Charging AR9 Upper
A side charging AR9 upper offers a range of advantages that can dramatically improve the shooting experience, from increased ergonomics to improved safety and customization potential.
Enhanced Ergonomics
One of the most compelling reasons to consider a side charging AR9 upper is the improvement in ergonomics. The side-mounted charging handle offers several advantages over the standard rear-mounted design.
Easier and Faster Charging: Perhaps the most noticeable benefit is the ease and speed of charging the firearm. With the charging handle located on the side, shooters can cycle the action more quickly and naturally. They can often charge the weapon without breaking their firing grip or significantly altering their shooting stance. This faster charging translates to quicker engagement and follow-up shots, crucial in defensive scenarios or competition shooting. The intuitive side-charging motion feels more natural and less disruptive compared to the rear-charging process.
Benefits for Left-Handed Shooters: For left-handed shooters, the standard rear charging handle can be awkward and potentially uncomfortable. They often need to reach across the receiver to manipulate the handle, potentially affecting their grip and sight picture. A side charging AR9 upper provides a much more ergonomic solution. The handle can be positioned on either the left or right side, enabling left-handed shooters to charge the weapon with their support hand, improving efficiency and comfort. This enhanced accessibility contributes to a more positive and effective shooting experience for southpaws.
Reduced Obstruction: The side charging handle also minimizes potential obstructions. The space above the receiver, where the standard charging handle is located, can sometimes interfere with optics and other accessories, particularly larger scopes or red dot sights. The side charging AR9 upper clears this space, allowing for more versatile optic mounting options and a less cluttered sight picture. This also leads to better overall balance and weight distribution, enhancing maneuverability and ease of handling.
Customization Options
Beyond ergonomics, side charging AR9 uppers offer a world of customization opportunities, allowing shooters to tailor their firearms to their individual preferences and needs.
Variety of Charging Handle Designs and Materials: The side charging handle itself is available in a wide range of designs, materials, and finishes. You’ll find straight handles, angled handles, and extended handles for easier manipulation, even with gloved hands. These handles can be manufactured from various materials, including aluminum, steel, and even polymers. The choice of material often impacts durability, weight, and overall aesthetics.
Potential for Different Upper Receiver Designs: Side charging AR9 uppers can sometimes incorporate different upper receiver designs. The location of the charging handle might necessitate a slightly altered profile or design compared to a standard upper receiver. This can include different rail systems or a more streamlined appearance.
Customization for Ambidextrous Use: Some side charging AR9 uppers offer ambidextrous charging handle options, allowing the shooter to charge the weapon from either side. This is particularly advantageous for tactical applications, providing flexibility and convenience in various shooting scenarios. Ambidextrous charging handles cater to both right- and left-handed shooters, promoting a more comfortable and adaptable shooting experience.
Improved Performance and Safety
The advantages of a side charging AR9 upper extend beyond ergonomics and customization, offering real-world performance and potential safety benefits.
Potentially Faster Follow-Up Shots: The combination of enhanced ergonomics and reduced obstruction can translate to faster follow-up shots. Shooters can more easily maintain their sight picture and quickly recharge the weapon if needed, ensuring more effective target acquisition.
Easier to Clear Malfunctions: Malfunctions are an inevitable part of shooting. A side charging handle often makes clearing jams and stoppages simpler and faster. Shooters can manipulate the action and quickly address issues without removing their firing grip, thereby reducing downtime and improving combat readiness.
Potential Safety Benefits: The side charging handle can also contribute to increased safety. It’s sometimes easier to visually verify an empty chamber with a side charging design, as the ejection port may be more accessible. This allows shooters to quickly and confidently confirm the status of their firearm, decreasing the chance of accidental discharge.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Side Charging AR9 Upper
Selecting the right side charging AR9 upper involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure a successful build that suits your needs.
Compatibility with Lower Receivers
A crucial factor is compatibility with your existing or planned lower receiver. AR9 lower receivers come in various designs.
Understand the different magazine well types. The most common are designed for Glock magazines or Colt-style magazines. The side charging upper must be designed to function with the magazine type that your lower receiver accepts. Check that there is proper clearance.
Quality of Construction
The build quality of the side charging AR9 upper is paramount. This impacts performance, reliability, and longevity.
Material of the Upper Receiver: The upper receiver is commonly made of aircraft-grade aluminum, typically 7075-T6 aluminum. This is a strong, lightweight material that can withstand the stresses of repeated firing. Ensure the receiver is properly heat-treated and finished.
Importance of Finish and Coating: The finish and coating on the upper receiver protect it from corrosion and wear. Common finishes include anodizing, which provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface.
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Considerations: The BCG is the heart of the AR9’s operating system. Choose a high-quality BCG designed specifically for 9mm. Key considerations include the material, heat treatment, and coating. The BCG must be compatible with the side charging mechanism.
Side Charging Handle Design
The design of the side charging handle plays a significant role in its functionality and ease of use.
Different Handle Designs: Consider the different handle designs available. Straight handles are the simplest, while angled handles might provide a better grip. Extended handles provide added purchase, particularly when wearing gloves.
Material and Durability of the Handle: Ensure the charging handle is made of durable material, able to withstand the rigors of constant use.
Ambidextrous vs. Single-Side Configurations: Determine whether you want a single-sided or ambidextrous charging handle. This choice depends on your dominant hand and the shooting situations you anticipate.
Caliber and Barrel Length
The barrel length impacts performance and use.
Barrel Length for Different Use-Cases: Shorter barrels are often favored for home defense or close-quarters combat, while longer barrels might be selected for competition shooting, precision, or to maximize ballistic potential.
Cost and Budget
The price of a side charging AR9 upper can vary considerably.
Price Ranges: Research the typical price ranges for different uppers, from budget-friendly options to premium models.
Balancing Cost with Quality and Features: It’s crucial to balance cost with quality and desired features. Don’t sacrifice essential build characteristics for the sake of saving money.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation is usually straightforward, but follow instructions carefully.
General Installation Steps: Study the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure all components fit properly.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Regular cleaning and lubrication is essential for reliable functioning.
Safety Precautions: Always prioritize safety. Verify that the firearm is unloaded before performing any work.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with quality components, problems sometimes arise.
Problems with Feeding: Feeding problems can be caused by magazine issues, BCG malfunctions, or chamber issues. Inspect and troubleshoot each component.
Failure to Extract: Failure to extract might be due to a weak extractor, a dirty chamber, or ammunition problems.
Issues with the Charging Handle: Handle issues may be related to the connection or design. Check for obstructions.
Conclusion
The side charging AR9 upper is a significant upgrade for the platform, offering enhanced ergonomics, customization, and potential performance benefits. It offers shooters a way to improve their experience.
Embrace the Potential: Investing in a side charging AR9 upper can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Do your research, select the right components, and enjoy the performance and customization that this platform offers.
