I am starting my first 9mm build. I have done a few other AR builds (300Blk and 5.56) and I am running into some issues. First off like everyone else apparently there are no slick side uppers to be had so I may settle for a side charger. If I settle I know there is limited offerings of hand guards that will fit the side charger upper. On top of the limited selection I will be running a can so I need enough room inside to tuck the can in. What are any solution anyone may have?

Next issue I think I may have is buffer and spring. My 300blk I am running a JP captured spring and runs wonderfully. Not sure I want to fork over another $180 for another JP spring or go another route. What would be suggestions for reliable running with say a 5.5 inch barrel 9mm with Kak tube?

I used this one......https://www.joeboboutfitters.com/Spike_s_Tactical_Slick_Side_Upper_Receiver_Forge_p/sp-sft56m4.htm, run a BCM KMR with it...no issue at all, but don't have a can.

I am using the 9mm extended buffer from KAK w/ Sprinco Red spring in a KAK shockwave and I use a BA 5.5" barrel w/ a KAK flash can.

Zero malfunctions to date.

I bought the CMT UPUR-3 upper. I was waiting for QC-10 to get more uppers in stock. They had not clue when they would get them back in stock again. Hopefully my form 1 will be approved soon so I can put the Maxim defense PDW stock on it.

Did you try these guys?

https://www.model1sales.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=415&CFID=3273169&CFTOKEN=26d39d41a3a7f607-E216093C-9600-78EF-C73CBEB2F8EE296F&jsessionid=D2A2834C0DBF82FFA888F21F3CA8FBAB.cfusion

https://www.model1sales.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=663&CFID=3273169&CFTOKEN=26d39d41a3a7f607-E216093C-9600-78EF-C73CBEB2F8EE296F&jsessionid=D2A2834C0DBF82FFA888F21F3CA8FBAB.cfusion

http://www.primaryarms.com/aero-precision-slick-side-stripped-ar-15-upper-receiver-apar610401


That's just a couple that all seem to be in stock, although I would call to confirm.

Or are you looking for a particular brand of slick side?

Not too be tacticool or anything but I am not sure how the Spikes upper finish will match my Spartan 9mm lower I got from JoeBob's. That and I am sort of wanting LRBHO if possible.

Forgive me but, if I order a shockwave with Kak tube and upgrade to 9mm buffer I will be good?

I have found several slick sides but was hoping for LRBHO if possible. That and I am a pansy and want the upper finish to match my 9mm Spartan lower.

Ahh, ok. Didn't realize you were doing Glock build.


As to finish, generally they should match unless Spartan does something unusual to there receivers. I used the Model 1 A3 SS and the finished matched my Black Creek Lower perfect.

Sorry, yes a glock build. I have a plethora of glock mags so might as well put them to use. According to JoeBob's website: MIL-A-8625 Type III Hard Anodizing (Deep Black). It is a different finish to my other lowers.

Ah, got you......i'll look at the finish when I get home as my G/F has a Spartan side charger upper on her AR47 build, which should be the same color as the Spartan lower you have.

I have a LRBHO lower, so in my case it was not needed as part of the upper. With the Spartan upper some rails that have anti rotation tabs might not work unless you grind off the tabs, which isn't too big a deal IMO.

Forgot to mention, I also have a Spinta 9mm bolt, but yes, all I use is the 9mm extended buffer, that way you don't need spacers or quarters in the buffer tube, but the standard carbine buffer spring should be fine as well. Your results may vary if you are using a suppresor, I have no experience with them except for Call of Duty

Glad you had a comment about the hand guard/rail fitment. I have read online that side charger uppers interfere with the tabs. I am thinking since I am lucky enough to live about 5 minutes from Midwest Industries maybe I can talk Pete into doing some machining on a SP series for me in order to make it work with a side charger upper. I used a SP rail on my 300blk SBR and it works well with a can.

Sprinta seems to have the best price on BCG's for this build as well.

What is the consensus on the LRBHO? I mean you guys seem to be happy with just a slick side upper and no LRBHO.

It is very important to me....it's the AR platform and it should act like a normal 556 AR in the way it functions IMO. Really the only difference with my 9mm AR and 556 AR is the caliber(duh) and the fact that the 9mm is blowback. Other than that they feel and function the same in my hands.