ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN Review

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN Made a Bold First Impression

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN arrived in a nondescript box, but the moment I hefted it, I knew I was in for something special. This complete upper receiver assembly from Angstadt Arms promises out-of-the-box readiness, specifically for those looking to pair it with a sound suppressor. The aggressive stance, highlighted by the included blast can and Radian charging handle, hinted at performance to match its aesthetics.

I’ve always been intrigued by pistol caliber AR platforms, particularly 9mm variants, for their versatility and manageable recoil. My main goal was to build a compact, reliable, and quiet 9mm AR pistol for both home defense and range fun.

Unboxing was straightforward, revealing the upper receiver fully assembled. The black nitride finish was smooth and even, and the handguard felt solid in my hand. Compared to other budget-friendly uppers I’ve handled, the Angstadt felt noticeably more refined; it was evident from the start that Angstadt Arms paid attention to the details.

Initially, I considered a cheaper, no-name upper, but the allure of the integrated blast can and the reputation of Angstadt Arms swayed me. I also briefly entertained a similar upper from a competitor, but the Radian charging handle included with the ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN sealed the deal. My initial reaction was excitement; I couldn’t wait to pair it with my existing lower and see how it performed.

Real-World Testing: Putting ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range, a familiar environment where I could focus solely on the upper’s performance. I paired the ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN with a dedicated 9mm AR lower that accepts Glock magazines. The weather was typical for late spring: a bit windy with a hint of moisture in the air.

Right away, I was impressed with the smooth cycling and minimal recoil. The 6-inch barrel delivered surprisingly good accuracy at 25 yards, and the blast can did a decent job of directing the muzzle blast forward. I experienced no malfunctions within the first 200 rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and approximately 1000 rounds, the ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used a variety of 9mm ammunition, including both brass and steel-cased rounds, with no significant issues. There are very minor signs of wear on the bolt carrier group, but it is all within normal wear for a firearm.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down of the bolt carrier group and a brush through the barrel after each range session is usually all it takes. Compared to my experiences with some other AR-pattern firearms, the ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN has been significantly easier to clean and maintain. It definitely outperforms other uppers in its price range.

Breaking Down the Features of ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm NATO. This makes ammunition readily available and relatively inexpensive.
• Weight: 2.6 lbs. The lightweight design contributes to maneuverability and reduces fatigue during extended use.
• Barrel Length: 6 inches. This length strikes a balance between compactness and ballistic performance, making it ideal for a pistol platform.
• Twist Rate: 1-10″. This twist rate stabilizes a wide range of 9mm bullet weights effectively.
• Handguard Length: 5.5 inches. The M-LOK compatibility is extensive and gives many options for mounting accessories.
• Muzzle Device: Angstadt Arms 3-Lug muzzle brake with Angstadt Arms Blastwave blast shield. This combination effectively directs muzzle blast forward, reducing perceived noise and concussion.
• Charging Handle: Radian Weapons Ambidextrous LT charging handle. The ambidextrous design makes it accessible to both right- and left-handed shooters.
• Bolt Carrier Group: Black nitride 9mm AR-15. The black nitride coating enhances corrosion resistance and reduces friction, contributing to smoother operation.
• Upper Receiver: 7075-T6 billet aluminum. This high-strength aluminum alloy ensures durability and rigidity.

Performance & Functionality

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN performs exceptionally well, delivering accurate and consistent shots. The smooth cycling and minimal recoil make it a pleasure to shoot, even during extended range sessions. It meets my expectations for a high-quality 9mm AR upper.

The main strengths are its reliability, accuracy, and the effectiveness of the blast can. While not a true suppressor, the blast can significantly reduces side concussion, making it much more pleasant to shoot, especially indoors. A minor area for improvement could be the handguard’s diameter; while slim and comfortable, it may limit the compatibility of some larger suppressors, even with the relieved section at the muzzle end.

Design & Ergonomics

The Angstadt Arms upper receiver is well-designed and meticulously crafted. The materials used are of high quality, and the fit and finish are excellent.

The slick side upper receiver makes it a very streamlined firearm. There is no learning curve, and the controls are intuitive and easy to access.

Durability & Maintenance

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN feels incredibly durable. The black nitride finish on the bolt carrier group and the hard-coat anodized upper receiver should withstand years of use and abuse.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication after each range trip. The 9mm cartridge is generally clean-burning, which further simplifies the cleaning process.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN comes standard with the Angstadt Arms 3-Lug muzzle brake, Blastwave blast shield, and Radian Weapons ambidextrous LT charging handle. The 5.5″ M-LOK handguard offers ample space for mounting accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips.

The upper is compatible with any 9mm Glock and Colt-style AR-15 lower receiver. It is also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including various optics, triggers, and pistol grips.

Pros and Cons of ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN

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Who Should Buy ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN?

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN is perfect for individuals seeking a high-quality, reliable, and compact 9mm AR pistol upper. It’s ideal for home defense, range use, and anyone looking for a versatile and manageable platform. Competitive shooters who need a fast-handling and accurate PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine) could benefit from its design.

Those on a very tight budget or who don’t prioritize the features like the blast can or Radian charging handle may want to consider a cheaper alternative. Individuals looking for a very long-range solution might also want to consider a rifle-caliber upper instead.

A quality red dot sight is a must-have accessory to maximize the upper’s accuracy and potential. Also, ensure you have a reliable lower receiver with magazines that are compatible with 9mm.

Conclusion on ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN

The ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN is a well-engineered and meticulously crafted upper receiver that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The integrated blast can and Radian charging handle add significant value.

The price is certainly justified considering the quality of components and the overall performance. It offers a compelling blend of compactness, accuracy, and shootability.

I would highly recommend the ANGSTADT UPPER UDP-9 9MM 6 W/BLAST CAN to anyone looking for a top-tier 9mm AR pistol upper. If you want a reliable, accurate, and enjoyable shooting experience, look no further, make the investment and enjoy the performance of this well designed upper.

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