FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch Review

First Impressions of FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch

The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch is a dedicated 9mm upper receiver designed to work with Glock magazines in an AR-15 platform. It’s manufactured by FM Products, a company known for its innovative approach to AR-pattern firearms and components. The rear charging handle, M-LOK handguard, and included bolt carrier group set it apart from more basic uppers.

I was in the market for a reliable and accurate 9mm AR build for range training and home defense. I wanted something that could utilize Glock magazines, as I already have a few, and the rear charging handle was a feature that piqued my interest. I hoped this upper would provide a fun, controllable, and cost-effective way to train with my AR platform.

My first impression upon unboxing the FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch was that it felt solid and well-made. The finish was clean and even, and the M-LOK handguard felt sturdy. It was lighter than I expected, which is always a plus for maneuverability.

I was also considering the CMMG Radial Delayed Blowback 9mm upper and the Angstadt Arms 9mm upper. I chose the FM Products upper because of its integrated design and the reputation of FM Products for producing reliable 9mm AR components, along with the included bolt carrier group. The CMMG system is innovative, but I wanted something more traditional.

My initial feeling was one of excitement. The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch seemed like a quality piece of equipment. I couldn’t wait to get it mounted on my lower and take it to the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch at my local outdoor shooting range. I was using a standard AR-15 lower receiver with a dedicated 9mm magazine adapter. The weather was sunny and mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The upper performed admirably during the initial test. I fired approximately 200 rounds of 115-grain FMJ ammunition without any malfunctions. The rear charging handle felt natural to use, and the recoil was manageable and predictable.

I did notice that the bolt was a little stiff during the first few magazines. It loosened up after about 50 rounds. Otherwise, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch has proven to be reliable. I have put over 1000 rounds through it, and it continues to function flawlessly. There are minimal signs of wear and tear.

The finish is still in great shape, and the handguard remains solid. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; I typically clean it after each range session using standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. The bore cleans up easily, and the bolt carrier group is simple to disassemble and reassemble.

This upper has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability. It outperforms my previous experience with a budget 9mm AR build. I am very pleased with its performance.

Breaking Down the Features of FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm Luger, offering a cost-effective and widely available ammunition choice. This makes it ideal for high-volume range training and practice.
• Barrel Length: 16 inches, providing a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. The longer barrel also contributes to increased accuracy and reduced muzzle flash.
• Threads per Inch: 1/2×36, which is a standard thread pitch for 9mm AR barrels. This allows for compatibility with a wide range of muzzle devices.
• Muzzle Device: Blast Diffuser, designed to direct muzzle blast forward and reduce perceived recoil. This helps to improve control and shooter comfort.
• Color: Black, offering a sleek and tactical aesthetic. Black is also a durable and corrosion-resistant finish.
• Fabric/Material: Premium Match Grade 41V50, a high-quality steel alloy known for its strength and durability. This ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
• Gun Rail: Picatinny, a standard rail system for mounting optics and other accessories. This provides versatility and customization options.
• Gun Make: AR Platform, specifically designed for AR-15 lower receivers. This allows for easy integration with existing AR-15 components.
• Gun Model: AR-15, ensuring compatibility with a vast array of AR-15 parts and accessories. This simplifies the building and customization process.
• Condition: New, guaranteeing that you receive a pristine and fully functional product. Buying new also ensures that you have the full manufacturer’s warranty.
• Barrel Material: 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium, a tried-and-true barrel steel known for its heat resistance and longevity. This ensures consistent performance even under heavy use.
• Magazine Included: No, allowing you to use your existing Glock magazines. This reduces cost and simplifies logistics for those who already own Glock pistols.
• Charging Handle Included: MIL-SPEC, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket charging handles. This allows for easy customization and upgrades.
• Mount Type: M-LOK, a modern and lightweight handguard mounting system. This provides ample space for attaching accessories such as lights, lasers, and grips.

Performance & Functionality

The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch performs exceptionally well. Its accuracy is impressive, easily hitting steel targets at 50-100 yards. The rear charging handle is smooth and intuitive, providing quick and easy access for charging and clearing malfunctions.

The upper’s strengths lie in its reliability, accuracy, and ease of use. One area for potential improvement might be offering different handguard length options. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a 9mm AR upper.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent; the materials used feel premium. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The rear charging handle placement is ergonomic and easy to reach.

There is no significant learning curve; it is user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with a standard AR-15 lower. The M-LOK handguard provides a comfortable and secure grip.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of the materials and construction, I expect the FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch to last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that is needed to keep it in top condition. Replacement parts, if ever needed, should be readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch comes complete with a bolt carrier group and charging handle, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. The M-LOK handguard offers ample space for attaching accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips. The Picatinny top rail allows for the mounting of various optics, including red dot sights and scopes.

This upper is compatible with standard AR-15 lowers and Glock magazines, providing a wide range of customization options. You can easily swap out the muzzle device for a suppressor or compensator, and the charging handle can be upgraded to an extended or ambidextrous model.

Pros and Cons of FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch

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Who Should Buy FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch?

The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch is perfect for: competitive shooters looking for a cost-effective training platform, home defense enthusiasts seeking a reliable and controllable firearm, and recreational shooters who enjoy the AR-15 platform.

Those who prefer direct impingement AR systems or require extremely lightweight builds might want to explore other options. A dedicated 9mm lower receiver with a last-round bolt hold-open feature is a must-have accessory to maximize the upper’s potential.

Conclusion on FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch

The FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch is an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a reliable and accurate 9mm AR. Its performance, features, and build quality justify the price. It’s a fun and versatile platform that is well-suited for a variety of applications.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality 9mm AR upper. If you’re ready to build your own 9mm AR and want a reliable, accurate, and feature-rich upper receiver, the FM Products FM-9 AR 9mm Rear Charging Upper Receiver, 16 inch is the way to go. Invest in your shooting experience, and you won’t be disappointed.