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What is AR 9 Lower Receiver? 🤔

It is the part of the firearm that houses all other components and allows for movement when firing a round. The lower receiver typically consists of an aluminium alloy forging, with internal parts made from high-strength steel, stainless steel or polymer.

Our Top Pick
Foxtrot Mike Products Billet Lower Receiver Stripped
Begin constructing your pistol-caliber carbine today with the Mike-9 Billet Lower Receiver. Manufactured in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty, these stripped lowers are machined from 7075-T6 billet aluminum and have an all black finish. Not only that, but they're compatible with 9mm Glock style magazines, plus feature last round bolt hold open functionality as well. Start building yours now - you won't regret it!
Buy Now On Brownells
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Features 🔥

🎯 Material – It can be made from various materials such as aluminium, polymer, or steel, with each offering its own set of benefits.

  • 💥 Aluminum Receivers are lightweight yet strong enough for most AR 9 applications. Their strength and light weight make them an ideal option for those who want a durable AR 9 platform without adding extra weight to the rifle. They are also relatively easy to install since they usually come with pre-drilled holes for mounting components like triggers, grips, and magazine releases.
  • 💥 Polymer Receivers offer an even greater reduction in weight compared to their aluminium counterparts. While still strong enough for most AR 9 applications, these lower receivers often have fewer features than aluminium lowers and do not require any drilling for mounting points.
  • 💥 Steel Receivers are some of the toughest available on the market today. These lower offer superior strength and durability when compared to other materials like aluminium or polymer; however, they can add quite a bit of unnecessary weight to your AR 9 rifle if you’re not careful.

🎯 Finish -the receivers come with a variety of finishes that all offer different advantages and disadvantages depending on your specific needs.

  • 💥 Anodizing provides a hard protective coating that is both corrosion and wear-resistant. Anodizing also gives a nice-looking matte black finish.
  • 💥 Cerakote is a ceramic-based product applied as a thin-film coating for Lower Receivers. It’s designed to provide improved durability, chemical resistance, lubricity, and corrosion protection with any AR build you may have in mind.
  • 💥 DuraBake is another type of finish that provides enhanced corrosion resistance as well as abrasion resistance against wear and tear from regular use. DuraBake also offers chemical protection.
  • 💥 Polymer finishes are applied by dipping the receiver in a polyurethane material giving it a slightly glossy look. Polymer finishes are lightweight and generally provide good protection against wear and tear.

🎯 Size – to accommodate AR-9 magazines, the lower receiver must be designed with a broad enough magazine well. An AR-9 lower should also have sufficient room for all other components such as triggers, handguards, stocks, etc., so it should measure at least 8″ in length. The width of the AR-9 lower receiver will depend on its intended application and can vary from 1/2″ up to 3/4″.

What is AR 9 Lower Receiver?🤔

Cleaning Guide 🚿

🟨 Begin by removing any furniture or components such as stock, handguards or grips that may interfere with cleaning.

🟨 Next, use a stiff brush to carefully brush out any carbon deposits that build up on the inside of the lower receiver or around any internal parts. If necessary, you can also use a solvent to help break down carbon deposits more quickly and thoroughly.

🟨 Now it’s time to clean out any debris such as dust or dirt that may have accumulated within its cavities over time. To do this you should use a compressed air canister (or air compressor) and blow out any debris not removed by brushing earlier.

🟨 You should then finish off by wiping down all interior surfaces with a clean cloth which will help keep dust and other particles from settling into hard-to-reach areas within your AR 9 lower receiver in the future.

🟨 After that you can move on to reassembling your AR 9 lower; however, before doing so it’s important that you lubricate all interior surfaces with a quality guns oil – this will help protect against rust as well as ensure optimal operation when firing round through it later on down the line.

🟨 Additionally, if you wish to add additional protection against corrosion you could always spray some WD-40 into the inner parts of your AR 9 Lower Receiver prior to reassembly – this can provide further protection against moisture damage in humid climates.

We believe this video can be helpful for you 📺

Best 💣 AR 9 Lower Receiver Review

1# Ke Arms LLC KE-9 Billet Stripped Lower Receiver

KE ARMS LLC KE-9 BILLET STRIPPED LOWER RECEIVER

View on Brownells

Specification

Make: AR-15
Cartridge: 9 mm Luger
Finish: Black
Style: Stripped

If you’re planning to build a pistol-caliber carbine, the KE Arms KE-9 Billet Stripped Lower Receiver is the perfect foundation for your project. This receiver is designed specifically for 9mm PCCs, and it’s set up to accept all of today’s OEM and aftermarket Glock-style magazines. Each KE Arms KE-9 Lower Receiver is machined from 7075 billet aluminum at the company’s facility. The receivers are held to tight tolerances within military specifications, so they’re compatible with all mil-spec 9mm upper receivers and components. For enhanced durability, the receivers have a Class 2 hard-anodized finish in black. The KE Arms KE-9 Billet Stripped Lower Receiver comes with the magazine catch and ejector installed. With this high-quality receiver, you’ll be well on your way to building a top-performing pistol-caliber carbine.

Pros:
  • Precision machined from 7075 billet aluminum
  • Compatible with all mil-spec 9mm upper receivers and components
  • Class 2 hard-anodized finish in black
  • Magazine catch and ejector installed
Cons:
  • May not be as durable as others

 

2# Foxtrot Mike Products Billet Lower Receiver Stripped

Foxtrot Mike Products Billet Lower Receiver Stripped

View on Brownells

Specification

Make: AR-15
Cartridge: 9 mm Luger
Finish: Black
Style: Stripped

Looking to build something unique? Why not a pistol-caliber carbine designed to take Glock pistol magazines? The Mike-9 Billet Lower Receiver is the perfect starting point for your PCC build. These stripped lowers are machined from 7075-T6 billet aluminum and feature an all-black finish. Compatible with all 9mm Glock-style magazines, they also come with last-round bolt hold-open. Plus, they’re made in the USA and covered under a lifetime warranty. So why wait? Start building your very own pistol-caliber carbine today!

Video review

Pros:
  • Compatible with all 9mm Glock-style magazines
  • Last-round bolt hold-open
  • Machined from 7075-T6 billet aluminum
  • All black finish
  • Made in the USA
  • Covered under a lifetime warranty
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with other AR-15 upper receivers
  • Some shooters complain about the quality

 

3# Foxtrot Mike Products Ar-15 Mike-9 Complete Billet Rifle Lower Receiver

FOXTROT MIKE PRODUCTS AR-15 COMPLETE BILLET LOWER RECEIVER

View on Brownells

Specification

Make: AR-15
Cartridge: 9 mm Luger
Finish: Black
Style: Assembled

Introducing the brand new AR-15 Mike-9 Complete Billet Rifle Lower Receiver from Foxtrot Mike Products! This amazing product comes standard with a Lower Parts Kit and Foxtrot Mike’s patented Last Round Bolt Hold Open feature, making it a must-have for any serious AR-15 enthusiast. The Mil-spec GI trigger group and S.S. .308 Carbine recoil spring make this lower receiver one of the most reliable and durable on the market today. The 6-position carbine buffer tube and 6.5 oz heavy buffer provide a smooth shooting experience, while the hard Milspec Type coating on the lower receiver protects it from wear and tear. Don’t miss your chance to get your hands on this incredible product!

Pros:
  • Made from billet aluminum
  • Superior strength and durability
  • One of the most reliable on the market today
  • Milspec Type coating protects from wear and tear
  • Smooth shooting experience
Cons:
  • May not be as strong as other designs
  • The buffer tube spring may be a little noisy

 

4# Aero Precision EPC 9 Lower Receiver

AERO PRECISION EPC 9 LOWER RECEIVER

View on Brownells

Specification

MAKE : AERO
CARTRIDGE: 40 S&W, 9 mm Luger
FINISH: Black, Flat Dark Earth

Looking for a sleek and stylish lower receiver for your next pistol caliber build? Look no further than the Aero Precision EPC 9 Lower Receiver. This custom-designed enhanced forging is machined from 7075-T6 Aluminum and boasts several functional features that are sure to simplify the assembly process for the at-home builder. The EPC-9 Lower Receiver features a threaded bolt catch pin for easy installation, an integrated enlarged trigger guard to remove any risk of breaking off trigger guard tabs, and a flared magazine well for quick and easy reloads. Plus, all the proprietary components come pre-installed from the factory! With a standard AR15 takedown/pivot pin lug pattern, the EPC-9 Lower Receiver is a great option for anyone looking for quality and function.

Video review

Pros:
  • Sleek and stylish design
  • Easy installation
  • Threaded bolt catch pin
  • Integrated enlarged trigger guard
  • Flared magazine well
Cons:
  • Some users have complained about poor fit and finish
  • There have been reports of receivers arriving damaged or with missing components

 

5# KE Arms LLC KP-9 Complete Lower Receiver

KE ARMS LLC KP-9 COMPLETE LOWER RECEIVERS

View on Brownells

Specification

Cartridge: 9 mm Luger, 9 mm Luger
Finish: Black
Style: Complete

The KE Arms KP-9 Complete Lower Receiver is a monolithic polymer 9 mm Glock Mag Compatible AR15 style receiver made from an injection molded 30% glass-filled nylon incorporating the buttstock, buffer tube, pistol grip, and trigger into the receiver design as integral components. This manufacturing process offers several advantages, such as lighter weight compared to similarly configured receivers, and lower cost to similarly configured receivers.  The KE Arms KP-9 Complete Lower Receiver is compatible with the most common 9 mm AR15 uppers and lower parts kits and is compatible with Glock 17 and 19 Magazines. The KP-9 also features a flared mag well to make reloads under stress easier to perform, as well as an A1 Length 13” Length of Pull (LOP) Buttstock to fit a wide range of shooters. The KP-9 is also equipped with MLOK Slots at the rear of the stock for sling attachment points, or run a strap through it for simple sling attachment.

Video review

Pros:
  • Made from injection molded 30% glass-filled nylon
  • The buttstock, buffer tube, pistol grip, and trigger are all integral components of the receiver design
  • Lighter weight compared to similarly configured receivers
  • Lower cost to similarly configured receivers
  • Glock 17 and 19 Magazines compatible
  • Flared mag well makes reloads under stress easier to perform
  • MLOK Slots at the rear of the stock for sling attachment points
Cons:
  • Some users may find it too short

 

6# Ghost Firearms Vital Upper ReceiverGhost Firearms Vital Upper Receiver

View on OpticsPlanet

Specification

Manufacturer: Ghost Firearms
Color: Black
Finish: Matte
Cartridge: 9mm Luger
Barrel Length: 7.5 in
Barrel Profile: 4150 Light HBAR
Gas System Length: Pistol Length
Barrel Twist Rate: 1-10
Handguard Length: 7 in
Gun Rail: M-LOK
Included Accessories: A2 Birdcage Flash Hider

Need a personalized touch for your AR-15? The Ghost Firearms Vital Upper Receiver, Pistol Lower Parts Kit, 9mm 9×19 Para, 7.5in, Pistol, Light HBAR Barrel, 1-10 Twist, 7in M-LOK Freefloat Handguard is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their shooting experience. These high-quality lower parts from Ghost Firearms are made from tough and durable materials, so you can expect a long lifespan of use. With a variety of customization options available, you can easily create the perfect rifle for your needs.

Pros:
  • The complete lower parts kit
  • Made from durable materials
  • Easy to assemble
  • Great for upgrading your shooting experience
  • Mil-Spec hard coat anodized
Cons:
  • May be too tough for some shooters
  • Limited customization options

 

How to install AR 9 Lower Receiver 📖❓

❗ To complete the installation, you’ll need a vice and a small set of tools such as pliers, a hammer, and screwdrivers. It’s also beneficial to have a few AR-specific tools available, like AR-specific wrenches and AR pin punches.

❗ Before beginning the installation make sure you have all the necessary components included in the package. Generally, this will include items such as pins, trigger guard assemblies, safety levers, and other parts related to ARs.

To begin installing your AR 9 Lower Receiver:

🔰 Securely mount it in your vice with its top facing up towards you. Make sure that your vice is gripping the receiver firmly but not too tightly so that it doesn’t damage or distort any of its components.

🔰 Install the trigger guard assembly by first placing it over the receiver; then aligning the pins on either side with the corresponding holes on each side of the receiver; then press them into place using pliers or hammers.

🔰 Once secure, install any additional lower receiver parts (e.g., safety lever and detent springs). Use AR-specific wrenches or pin punches for this step as needed for best results.

🔰 Attach any aftermarket parts/accessories as required following their specific instructions/ guidelines from their manufacturers/vendors (e.g., sights and other components).

🔰 Finally test fire and evaluate your Lower Receiver with live rounds to ensure proper performance before use in regular shooting activities. This step is crucial for ensuring safe use!

Please watch this video to learn more information 📺

FAQ ❓

What are the styles of AR9 lower receivers?
They come in two basic styles – stripped or complete (with parts).

  • 🔴 Stripped lower receivers are just the frame itself with no internal parts installed.
  • 🔴 Complete lower receivers have all the necessary parts pre-installed including trigger, hammer, bolt catch and so on. Both types of AR 9 lowers need to be cleaned separately in order to maintain peak performance and accuracy.
What do I need to buy first - lower or upper receiver?
The order in which you buy Lower and Upper Receivers depends on your individual needs. Generally speaking, you should begin by purchasing a lower receiver since it serves as the foundation of your AR 9 build. It is also the part that contains some of the most regulated parts under federal law, such as fire control components and serialized receivers. Once you have acquired your lower receiver, then you can purchase an upper receiver to complete the assembly process for your AR 9 rifle.

This video will provide more information about lower and upper receivers

Are all AR 9 lower receivers compatible with all AR uppers and barrels?
They are not all compatible with all AR uppers and barrels. This is because AR-9 lower receivers are designed differently than AR-15 and AR-10 lower receivers, and they accept different magazines and internal components.
What should I look for when buying a AR 9 lower receiver?

There are several things you should keep in mind:

🟡 Compatibility: Make sure that the receiver you choose is compatible with your AR-9 rifle platform.

🟡 Material: Receivers come in both polymer and aluminium varieties, so decide which material you prefer.

🟡 Features: Some receivers come with additional features like ambidextrous controls or flared mag wells. Decide what features are important to you and shop accordingly.

🟡 Budget: they can range in price from around $100 to over $200. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before beginning your search.

Are AR9 and AR-15 lower parts kits the same?
AR9 and AR-15 lower parts kits are not the same. AR9 lower parts kits typically include a narrower range of components – such as just the fire control group and pistol grip – while AR-15 lower parts kits include a wider range of components, such as the fire control group, pistol grip, buffer tube assembly, and stock. AR9 pistols are built on AR-15 lower receivers, so AR9 lower parts kits will work with AR-15 upper receivers and vice versa.
Do different types of AR Lower Receivers have any effect on accuracy or performance?

The type of lower receiver you choose will ultimately determine how your AR-style rifle performs and how accurate it is.

Forged AR9 Lowers are usually made from 7075-T6 aluminium alloy that is forged into shape using high levels of pressure. This creates a strong metal matrix with a uniform grain structure that is more resistant to cracking or breaking under stress than a billet lower receiver made from the same material. However, forged AR9 lowers may contain slight irregularities in size or finish due to the manufacturing method used to create them. The strength gained from this process makes it ideal for AR9 rifles used in military or police applications, where durability is critical.

Billet AR9 Lowers are machined from a solid block of metal, which allows for greater precision when creating intricate shapes and patterns within the design. This results in greater structural integrity, better fitment between components, improved ergonomics, and more aesthetically pleasing finishes than those found on forged AR9 lowers. While these benefits may not be noticeable when shooting at targets beyond 50 yards, they can prove helpful when dialling in your setup for maximum accuracy and performance out to 200 yards or more.

AR 9 Lower Receiver material can also have an effect on accuracy and performance when shooting over long distances because certain types of metals will resist barrel heat better than others.

  • 🔷 Steel lower receivers tend to perform best under higher temperatures due to their higher thermal conductivity – allowing them to dissipate heat quickly across their surface area with minimal warping or changes in shape.
  • 🔷 Some alloys such as Titanium or Aluminum can also provide decent performance characteristics if given proper attention during manufacture and installation.

Conclusion 🙂

There are many different types and models on the market today. Picking the right one can be difficult, but our buyer’s guide will help make it easier for you. In this guide, we have reviewed some of the items on the market and given you a few tips on how to pick the right one for your needs. We hope you find this information helpful! 🤩💥

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Mizo
Mizo
11 months ago

I’m in desperate need of a Glock 9mm magazine receiver for my lower. I’ve already built the upper parts and have most of the pieces needed to complete it, yet I just can’t seem to track down that perfect receiver. What AR9 lower receiver is the best?

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  Mizo
11 months ago

There are many options out there and it can be difficult to know which is the best for your build. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this Buyer’s Guide😉☝. Please read it and you will find something to your taste

Extpert
Extpert
Reply to  Mizo
11 months ago

When I need the best of the best, KE Arms is my go-to. Their 9mm Glock magazine-compatible and MP5 magazine compatible lower as well as their 45 ACP lowers are all top quality for unbeatable results. But the budget matters.

Rich45
Rich45
Reply to  Mizo
11 months ago

I have a couple of Foxtrot lowers. Not bad. Even good

Clesondel
Clesondel
Reply to  Mizo
11 months ago

Aero is awesome! I used it for 4 years. So I can confidently say that this product has fulfilled my expectations and left me feeling completely satisfied.

Nick
Nick
11 months ago

What’s a good budget for 9mm lower? Need advice regards cost

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  Nick
11 months ago

It can cost anywhere from $100 to $3000 depending on the specific model, quality, and features. Generally speaking, AR 9 Lower Receivers with simpler designs and fewer features tend to be less expensive than those that come with more bells and whistles. 

Rock
Rock
Reply to  Nick
11 months ago

I bought my Ghost receiver kit for 6K dollars. Is it a lot? Not think so

Davison
Davison
11 months ago

Thank you for the article. I was impressed with one thing))) CLEANING))) OMG! Is it necessary to clean the lower receiver? I have had one for a year and have never thought about this ( oh, forgive me my gun)))

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  Davison
11 months ago

Yes, it is important to clean your AR 9 Lower Receiver regularly.
🔴 To do this effectively, use a degreaser or cleaning agent specifically designed for AR 9 Lower Receivers. Make sure to apply it properly and follow all instructions carefully to avoid damaging the receiver or any other components of the AR-9 rifle.

Pelenam
Pelenam
Reply to  Davison
11 months ago

Yes, certainly. I do it after high round count rifle class. To ensure a thorough clean, I first separated the upper and lower portions before hosing down the lower with non chlorinated brake cleaner. To completely dry everything off, blow this section with compressed air and finish by spraying on aerosol eezox or your chosen lubricant for extra protection.
During an ordinary clean, I use my standard cleaners with patches and q-tips until it’s satisfactory. Afterwards, a light coat of oil to all the parts in the lower is applied for optimal performance which helps protect against rust accumulation.

TTY
TTY
Reply to  Davison
11 months ago

It is advised that at least every 5 years or after 5000 rounds, you should be performing a thorough cleaning of your firearm. As oil breaks down and collects fouling over time, gunk begins to build up as well as rusting springs – so if running suppressed firearms more frequent cleanings are recommended.

Trustyman
Trustyman
Reply to  Davison
11 months ago

To keep my air compressor in top condition, I use a routine of blowing out lint, dust, seeds, and old oil with regularity. Following this step up by adding Mobile 1 and then getting rid of the excess – it’s much easier than completely stripping down for maintenance. To ensure optimal performance is maintained every two weeks should do the trick, I believe so