ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED Review

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED Made a Bold First Impression

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED upper receiver represents a crucial component in any AR-9 build, offering a blank canvas for crafting a personalized pistol-caliber carbine. Anderson Manufacturing, known for their commitment to value and reliable AR components, provides a solid foundation with this stripped upper. The minimalist design and focus on core functionality make it an appealing option for builders of all experience levels.

I embarked on this build with the desire to create a lightweight and highly maneuverable 9mm platform for both range use and home defense. I was looking for an upper receiver that would provide a reliable and durable foundation, without unnecessary bells and whistles that would drive up the cost. After all, a firearm is only as good as its weakest link.

My initial impression of the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED was positive. The black finish was clean and even, the machining appeared precise, and the overall weight felt reassuringly solid without being cumbersome. Unlike some budget options that feel flimsy, this upper exuded a sense of quality craftsmanship.

Compared to a completed upper receiver from a premium brand like Spike’s Tactical, or a more budget-oriented option like a PSA (Palmetto State Armory) complete upper, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED stood out due to its no-frills approach. While I considered the convenience of a complete upper, the ability to choose every single component in my build was paramount. I chose the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED specifically for its adaptability and because I could trust the Anderson Manufacturing name.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the upper felt well-made and ready for a build. I was eager to start assembling my AR-9 and seeing how this upper performed in conjunction with my carefully selected components. The potential for a personalized, high-performing 9mm carbine was definitely exciting.

Real-World Testing: Putting ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED was my local outdoor shooting range. Paired with an Anderson Manufacturing lower, a 9mm bolt carrier group, and a quality barrel, I put it through its paces with various 9mm ammunition types. The weather was typical for early spring: slightly damp with a cool breeze.

The upper performed flawlessly, cycling rounds smoothly and consistently. I experienced zero malfunctions during the first 200 rounds. It was a stark contrast to some AR-9 builds I’ve seen struggle with feeding issues from the start.

The only adjustment needed was to the optic.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED continues to impress. There are no signs of premature wear or loosening of any components. The finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scratches near the ejection port.

I have only cleaned the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED a few times, primarily focusing on the bolt carrier group and barrel. Cleaning was straightforward, and the finish remained resistant to cleaning solvents. This is where it started to shine, outperforming other brands of a similar price point.

Compared to my previous experiences with AR-9 builds, this one stands out for its reliability and consistency. Many AR-9s are finicky and require constant tweaking. The combination of the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED and carefully chosen components has resulted in a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.

Breaking Down the Features of ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED

Specifications

• Caliber: Designed for 9mm Luger. This is crucial for compatibility with 9mm lowers and magazines.
• Material: Made from 7075-T6 aluminum. This provides excellent strength and durability while keeping the weight down.
• Finish: Black anodized. This protects against corrosion and provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing finish.
• Compatibility: Designed to work with standard AR-15 lower receivers when used with 9mm conversion magazines or dedicated 9mm lower receivers. Its versatile design allows for various build configurations.
• Stripped Upper: Comes without forward assist or dust cover. This allows for a cleaner aesthetic and reduces potential points of failure; it also allows the builder to add these components if desired.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall reliability and performance of the AR-9 build. The use of 7075-T6 aluminum ensures the upper can withstand the stresses of repeated firing. Its compatibility with standard AR-15 lowers makes it an accessible option for those familiar with the AR platform.

Performance & Functionality

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED performs its primary function – providing a stable and reliable platform for the bolt carrier group and barrel – exceptionally well. The tight tolerances ensure proper alignment and smooth cycling of rounds. The absence of a forward assist and dust cover hasn’t proven to be a hindrance in my experience.

The strength of this upper lies in its simplicity and robust construction. It’s designed to do one thing and do it well. Potential areas for improvement could involve offering a version with a pre-installed dust cover for those who prefer it.

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED meets my expectations for a reliable and durable AR-9 upper. Its performance has exceeded that of some higher-priced options I’ve used in the past.

Design & Ergonomics

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED features a straightforward design with clean lines and a matte black finish. The build quality is excellent, with no visible imperfections or rough edges. The weight is balanced and comfortable, even with a heavier barrel and optic.

There is essentially no learning curve. Anyone familiar with the AR-15 platform will find this upper receiver easy to work with. Its minimalist design is intuitive and doesn’t require any special tools or techniques to assemble.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust construction and quality materials, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED should last for many years of use. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, will further extend its lifespan.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with standard firearm cleaning supplies is all that is required to keep the upper in good working order. The absence of intricate parts makes disassembly and cleaning straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED, being a stripped upper, does not come with any accessories. However, its compatibility with standard AR-15 parts opens up a wide range of customization options.

You can add:

• Charging Handles: Choose from a variety of ambidextrous or enhanced charging handles to suit your preferences.
• Optics: Mount red dot sights, holographic sights, or scopes using standard AR-15 optic mounts.
• Barrels: Select a 9mm barrel of your desired length and twist rate.
• Bolt Carrier Groups (BCG): Ensure you use a BCG compatible with pistol calibers, specifically 9mm.

The upper is compatible with most AR-15 accessories from reputable brands. The user-friendly design simplifies the process of adding and swapping out components.

Pros and Cons of ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED