The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED Made a Bold First Impression
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is an intriguing offering in the world of AR-9 builds, providing a blank canvas for those looking to craft a pistol-caliber carbine tailored to their specific needs. Anderson Manufacturing is a known player in the AR-15 world, and their foray into the AR-9 platform with this stripped upper receiver sparks curiosity. Its black finish and compatibility with Glock magazines are immediately appealing, suggesting a focus on simplicity and widespread parts availability.
I was looking for a reliable and affordable upper receiver to kickstart my AR-9 project. My goal was to create a dedicated home defense weapon chambered in 9mm. I wanted a build that was both modular and easily customizable, something that a stripped upper receiver allowed.
Upon unboxing, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED impressed me with its clean lines and solid feel. The black anodized finish was evenly applied and free of blemishes. While lightweight, it didn’t feel cheap or flimsy, suggesting decent quality control.
I considered the PSA AR-9 Stripped Upper and the Foxtrot Mike Products FM-9 Stripped Upper Receiver before settling on the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED. The Anderson was chosen due to its lower price point and the positive reviews regarding its compatibility with Anderson lowers. I was looking for a budget-friendly option that didn’t sacrifice reliability, and the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED seemed to fit the bill.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The upper appeared well-made for the price, but the true test would be in the build and at the range. It offered an exciting chance to build the perfect AR-9 from the ground up.
Real-World Testing: Putting **ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED** to the Test
First Use Experience
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED was first tested at my local indoor shooting range, where I assembled it with a 9mm barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle. I paired it with an Anderson lower receiver, as suggested by user feedback. The initial range session focused on verifying proper cycling and identifying any potential issues.
The range environment was controlled, but I intentionally avoided excessive cleaning or lubrication to simulate real-world conditions. This tested the upper’s out-of-the-box performance. The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED cycled flawlessly through 200 rounds of various 9mm ammunition, including FMJ and hollow points.
The assembly process was straightforward, and no specialized tools were required beyond standard AR-15 armorer’s tools. The upper receiver mated seamlessly with the Anderson lower. No immediate issues were apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 1000 rounds, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED has proven to be remarkably reliable. There have been zero malfunctions directly attributable to the upper receiver itself. The finish shows minimal wear, even around the ejection port and charging handle area.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth after each range session is sufficient. The anodized finish resists carbon buildup and cleans easily. Compared to my experiences with other budget-friendly AR parts, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability.
I previously used a different, unnamed AR-9 upper receiver from a less reputable manufacturer, and it experienced frequent failures to extract. This resulted in frustration and a waste of ammunition. The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED has completely eliminated those issues, instilling confidence in my AR-9 build.
Breaking Down the Features of **ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED**
Specifications
- The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is chambered in 9mm. This makes it compatible with a wide range of readily available and affordable ammunition.
- It is a stripped upper receiver, meaning it does not include a bolt carrier group, barrel, or charging handle. This allows the user to select components that meet their specific needs and budget.
- It is constructed from forged 7075-T6 aluminum. This material is known for its strength and lightweight properties, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight to the firearm.
- The upper features a standard flattop design with a Picatinny rail for mounting optics and accessories. This allows for easy customization with a wide variety of sights, scopes, and other tactical equipment.
- The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is finished with a durable black anodized coating. This coating protects the aluminum from corrosion and wear, extending the lifespan of the receiver.
These specifications are essential for a reliable and accurate AR-9 build. The forged aluminum construction ensures the upper can withstand the stresses of repeated firing. The Picatinny rail provides flexibility in optic selection.
Performance & Functionality
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED performs its core function flawlessly: providing a solid platform for a 9mm AR-9 build. Its tight tolerances and consistent dimensions ensured a smooth and reliable cycling experience. It performs admirably when combined with quality components.
The upper receiver’s strength is its simplicity and reliability. It lacks any unnecessary features that could potentially fail. The potential downside is that it requires the user to source all internal components, which can be time-consuming.
It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, reliable upper receiver. It provides a stable and accurate platform for my AR-9 build without breaking the bank. Its build quality exceeded what I would have expected from its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED features a no-frills design that prioritizes functionality. The black anodized finish is clean and professional-looking. Its lightweight construction contributes to the overall maneuverability of the completed firearm.
The upper receiver is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to assemble with compatible parts. The standard AR-15 platform is familiar to most gun owners, making the build process relatively straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is built to last. The forged aluminum construction and durable anodized finish resist wear and corrosion. Proper cleaning and lubrication of the internal components are essential, but the upper receiver itself requires minimal maintenance.
The simplicity of the design contributes to its long-term reliability. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. Replacement of the internal components, such as the barrel or bolt carrier group, is possible.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED itself does not include any accessories. However, its standard Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of a wide range of optics, sights, and other tactical accessories. The user can customize the rifle with their preferred components.
The upper receiver is compatible with most AR-9 barrels, bolt carrier groups, and charging handles designed for Glock-style magazines. This opens up a wide range of customization options from various manufacturers. It can be paired with various handguards.
Pros and Cons of **ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED**
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price: The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED offers outstanding performance at a very affordable price point.
- Reliable and durable: The forged aluminum construction and durable anodized finish ensure long-lasting reliability.
- Easy to assemble: The standard AR-15 platform makes assembly straightforward for experienced gun owners.
- Compatible with Glock magazines: This allows for the use of widely available and affordable magazines.
- Highly customizable: The Picatinny rail allows for easy attachment of optics and accessories.
Cons
- Stripped receiver requires sourcing all internal components separately. This can be time-consuming and require research to ensure compatibility.
- The finish, while durable, is basic. Those looking for a more premium aesthetic may find it lacking.
Who Should Buy **ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED**?
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is perfect for budget-conscious AR-9 builders, home defense enthusiasts, and those who enjoy customizing their firearms. It is also good for those looking to build an affordable and reliable pistol caliber carbine. It is ideal for recreational shooters looking for a fun and accurate platform.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who want a complete upper receiver ready to drop onto a lower, or those looking for a high-end finish and premium features. If ease of assembly and avoidance of parts selection is a priority, a complete upper would be a better choice. People looking for specific aesthetic features not offered by a basic black anodized finish should also consider alternative options.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality 9mm bolt carrier group, a 9mm barrel with the appropriate length for your desired build, and a reliable charging handle. Depending on your intended use, you may also want to consider adding an optic, such as a red dot sight or scope. Be sure that the lower receiver is compatible with Glock magazines.
Conclusion on **ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED**
The ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED is a fantastic value for the money, delivering reliable performance and a solid foundation for building a custom AR-9. Its simple design and durable construction make it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice builders.
The price is certainly justified, especially considering the quality of materials and construction. It is a cost-effective option for building a reliable pistol-caliber carbine.
I would absolutely recommend the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED to anyone looking for an affordable and customizable AR-9 upper receiver. It provides a reliable foundation for building a versatile and enjoyable firearm. Start your AR-9 build today with the ANDERSON UPPER AM-9 STRIPPED and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own custom firearm.
