What Makes Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit Stand Out?
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit promises to transform your AR-15 into a versatile and cost-effective 9mm platform. This conversion kit aims to provide AR-15 users with a way to train more frequently, utilize cheaper ammunition, and potentially enjoy a more compact firearm for various applications. Its unique features like the Radial Delay Blowback system and CMMG 9 AR magazine adapter set it apart from traditional 9mm AR conversions.
I was looking for a way to train more frequently with my AR-15 without breaking the bank on ammunition costs. The promise of a reliable and accurate 9mm conversion that utilized existing PMAGs was incredibly appealing.
Upon unboxing the Next Level Armament Horus kit, the first thing that struck me was the build quality of the upper receiver. The finish was clean and the components felt solid and well-machined; it has a reassuring heft without feeling overly heavy.
Compared to some of the other drop-in 9mm conversions I’ve seen, the Horus kit’s integrated approach with the CMMG magazine adapter stood out. Many other kits require separate, bulky magazine well adapters or dedicated Glock magazines, which add extra cost and complexity. I chose this kit because of its promise of seamless integration and efficient use of existing AR-15 magazines.
My initial impression was one of excitement, tempered with a bit of cautious optimism. The system looked well-engineered, but I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit at an indoor shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the recoil impulse and accuracy in a controlled environment.
The performance was surprisingly good even after a full day of shooting. The conversion kit worked flawlessly, even after some initial hiccups adjusting to the different ammunition types.
The system was relatively easy to install, but it did take a few minutes to familiarize myself with the CMMG magazine adapter and how it interacted with the PMAGs.
The only initial issue I encountered was a couple of failure-to-feed malfunctions with cheaper steel-cased ammunition. After switching to brass-cased rounds, the problems disappeared.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit has proven to be impressively reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, and it continues to perform consistently.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use and cleaning. The finish on the upper receiver remains intact, and the CMMG magazine adapter shows no signs of loosening or degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a standard AR-15 cleaning kit is all that’s required to keep the system running smoothly.
Compared to my previous experiences with other 9mm conversions, the Next Level Armament Horus kit outperforms them in terms of reliability and ease of use. The Radial Delay Blowback system seems to significantly reduce recoil and improve accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit
Specifications
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It features a 9mm Luger chambering, a 5-inch barrel length, and compatibility with standard AR-15 lower receivers.
The kit includes a Next Level Armament Ascend Phoenix upper receiver, a Radial Delay Blowback (RDB) system, and a CMMG 9 AR magazine adapter. The 5-inch barrel provides a compact package while maximizing the 9mm round’s ballistic potential.
The magazine adapter’s compatibility with Gen2 or Gen3 PMAGs eliminates the need for dedicated 9mm magazines, saving money and adding convenience. This feature alone significantly enhances the kit’s value proposition.
Performance & Functionality
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit excels at providing a reliable and accurate 9mm shooting experience on the AR-15 platform. The RDB system effectively mitigates recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot than traditional blowback systems.
The accuracy is impressive for a pistol-caliber carbine. With proper optics, I was able to consistently achieve tight groupings at 25 yards.
A significant strength is the magazine adapter. It allows for last round bolt hold open and eliminates the need for a dedicated 9mm lower receiver or Glock-specific magazines.
The primary weakness, as mentioned earlier, is its occasional sensitivity to lower-quality ammunition. Stick with brass-cased rounds for optimal performance.
Overall, the Next Level Armament Horus kit meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a fun, reliable, and cost-effective way to train with my AR-15.
Design & Ergonomics
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit features a well-thought-out design and solid ergonomics. The upper receiver is constructed from high-quality aluminum with a durable finish.
The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The 5-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable, making it a good option for close-quarters scenarios.
The system is user-friendly. Installation is relatively straightforward, and the magazine adapter is easy to load and unload.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit is built to last. The materials and construction are robust, and I expect it to provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to keep the system in good working order.
The Radial Delay Blowback system reduces stress on the components, potentially extending the lifespan of the kit. This is a significant advantage over simpler blowback designs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. You can easily add optics, lights, lasers, and other accessories to enhance its functionality.
The upper receiver features a standard Picatinny rail for mounting optics. This allows you to use your favorite red dot sight, holographic sight, or scope.
The kit is also compatible with most AR-15 handguards, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your firearm.
Pros and Cons of Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit
Pros
- Reliable Radial Delay Blowback system reduces recoil and improves accuracy.
- CMMG 9 AR magazine adapter eliminates the need for dedicated 9mm magazines.
- Compatible with standard AR-15 lower receivers and accessories.
- Relatively easy to install and maintain.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
Cons
- May experience malfunctions with low-quality, steel-cased ammunition.
- Relatively high price point compared to some other 9mm conversion kits.
Who Should Buy Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit?
This conversion kit is perfect for AR-15 owners who want to train more frequently without spending a fortune on ammunition. It’s also well-suited for those who want a more compact and versatile firearm for home defense or tactical applications.
Those who should skip this product are individuals on a very tight budget, as cheaper alternatives are available (albeit with potential compromises in reliability and features). Also, if you primarily shoot steel-cased ammunition, you might find the occasional malfunction frustrating.
A must-have accessory is a quality red dot sight or other optic to take full advantage of the kit’s accuracy potential. A weapon light is also a good addition for home defense or tactical use.
Conclusion on Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit
The Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit is a well-engineered and reliable system that transforms your AR-15 into a versatile 9mm platform. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the improved reliability, Radial Delay Blowback system, and compatibility with standard PMAGs make it a worthwhile investment.
The value proposition is strong for those who prioritize performance, convenience, and the ability to train more frequently. The kit’s robust construction and easy maintenance further enhance its long-term value.
I would personally recommend the Next Level Armament Horus kit to anyone looking for a high-quality 9mm AR-15 conversion. It’s a fun, reliable, and cost-effective way to expand the capabilities of your existing AR-15.
If you’re ready to take your AR-15 training to the next level, the Next Level Armament Horus AR-15 9mm Luger 5 inch Upper Receiver Conversion Kit is an excellent choice.