I originally built my AR9 so I can use it for practice on the range. Since 9mm ammunition was cheaper than .223 or 5.56, decided the build would help me save some $$ in the long run. Yup, that excuse didn't work with my wife either. I just wanted to build one for the sake of it. Shopped around for good parts but also trying to find the best prices. The major upgrades happened after my first USPSA match and saw you could use PCC. That really drew me in because I really wanted to get better at handling my rifle and could upgrade the parts easier on an AR9. I was also more comfortable using my AR9 for the matches. It wasn't any easier since shooting with a rifle but it did have it's advantages. My opinion is based on 1 year of competitions with the AR9. Using a PCC was more forgiving on a rookie shooter like myself.
Advantages of an AR9:
The longer barrel and stability when holding the AR9 makes it better for longer shots (25-30yards).
The variety of optics (red dots) to purchase and use.
The variety of triggers to purchase and use.
The magazines extensions for Glock 30 round mags can hold much more. I have a 47 rounder but there are newer mag extensions that hold more! This means no reloading.
Much more modifications can be done to suit your style of shooting.
Disadvantages:
The barrel length can also be a hindrance on certain match stages where you don't have as much clearance as opposed to using a pistol.
Running with muzzle pointing down range. Stage planning becomes more important for those stages having to go back up range.
Firing pin malfunctions - PCCs are blowback systems so it wears out the firing pins faster. Have already had to replace 2. Now I am using the Wilson Combat Bullet Proof® firing pin and it has held up so far.
Stages with reloading can be difficult. Like everything else, everyone needs to practice reloading a lot.
Like any other firearm you own, practice with it, know it's capabilities and weaknesses. If you decide to upgrade your AR9 with only 1 or 2 parts to get it ready for a match, I would
recommend the trigger and firing pin in my humble opinion. Spending the money on good trigger is well worth it. A good firing pin will keep you in the competition.
PCC is one of the fastest growing divisions in USPSA because upgrading parts in an AR format is much easier and affordable which makes entry for newer shooters also easier. Bottom line, it's a ton of fun.
Compensator: RAGE UM Tactical Adjustable Compensator
Buffer Spring: JP Tuned & Polished Extra Power Buffer Spring - .308 Carbine
Optic: Holosun Flagship Open Reflex 2MOA Dot / 65MOA Ring, Black, HE510C-GR ELITE
Trigger: Hiperfire Hipertouch ECLipse - HPTECL
Charging Handle: Radian Raptor Ambidextrous Charging Handle
Upper Receiver: Spikes Tactical M4 Upper Receiver "SlickSide" (No Forward Assist)
Lower Receiver: Spike's Tactical AR-15 9MM Glock Style Lower Forged Spider Stripped w/ LRBHO
Stock: Mission First Tactical Battlelink Minimalist Stock Military For Mil Spec Size 1.148 Diameter Receiver Extensions Black BMSMIL
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