Pistol-caliber carbines (PCCs): they’re not pistols, but they’re not quite rifles either.
Some people might tell you that they’re rifle-wannabes that are unnecessary and impractical, but I think pistol-caliber carbines are optimized for self-defense, competition, and FUN.
We’re going to look particularly at pistol-caliber carbines for self-defense…particularly at home where these things really shine.
Plus some basics and layout just what a pistol caliber carbine is…and why you might want one. And of course, our favorites from standalone PCCs to AR-platform versions.
THE QUICK LIST
-
Editor’s Pick
-
Best for Home Defense
-
Best AK Pick
-
Best Caliber Selection
-
Best High End Option
-
Budget Friendly Pick
-
Most Reliable
Table of Contents
PCCs vs. Rifles
If you need a home defense gun that will be used primarily in open space to secure perimeters and neutralize threats outdoors, the AR-15 and AK-47 are great choices.
However, indoor home defense scenarios are a little different.
You want a gun that’s smaller and allows for maneuverability in tight areas, like around doorways and down hallways. Most pistol caliber carbines are going to be shorter than any long gun, save maybe some of the nice bullpup shotguns and rifles out there.
Even with a suppressor.
Simply put, you don’t want to lug around a bulky rifle or shotgun if you’re moving through a confined space. In addition, when comparing a pistol-caliber carbine specifically to the AK-47, you also get an added benefit of lower recoil.
PCCs vs Handguns
The biggest advantage that the pistol-caliber carbine has over your sidearm is stability.
Some of you may be crack shots who can shoot the wings off a fly with your trusty pistol.
For the rest of us, handgun accuracy tends to drop when shooting at a target from 15 – 25 yards away, especially in dangerous situations where adrenaline and stress levels are through the roof.
For these types of scenarios, pistol-caliber carbines give you that added stability to hit your mid-range target with more accuracy.
Another benefit of pistol-caliber carbines is that many of them are designed to work interchangeably with some of your favorite handguns, so you can use the same magazine for your PCC as you can for your Glock.
Check out this video of how to shoot pistol-caliber carbines in a home defense situation.
Choosing a Good Pistol-Caliber
There are some great home defense shotguns out there, but a shotgun might not always be the best option.
The average pistol-caliber carbine shoots either 9mm, .40 S&W cartridges, or .45 ACP, and less common are .380 and .357 SIG cartridges.
We even have a bigger bore 10mm one in there for you.
The benefit to this is that you’ll find no shortage of ammo and in most cases, your pistol-caliber carbine is more affordable to shoot than the average rifle.
Now that we’ve covered some of the basics about pistol-caliber carbines, let’s have a look at some popular carbine models.
We’ll start off with non-AR PCCs and then dive into some AR-9s (9mm ARs…see, it kinda makes sense).
Best Pistol-Caliber Carbines
1. Sig Sauer MPX K
There’s a lot of choices with PCCs now and Sig’s MPX has always been up there. But now they are in their unofficial 3rd generation with all the kinks worked out.
You get all the familiar AR-15 controls but now fully ambidextrous.
But with a short-stroke gas piston system that keeps everything a little tidier than the AR’s direct impingement.
Another great thing is that there’s no buffer tube system so you can add a folding stock/brace system.
It’s been super reliable for us and shoots very pleasantly…especially with a suppressor.
And not like it has an extra advantage at night…but we have some really cool night footage.
There’s a bunch more to say so check out our full review of the Sig Sauer MPX K.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
There’s also a full video review with it too!
What’s your take on the Sig MPX?
2. CZ Scorpion EVO Series
The CZ Scorpion EVO series encompasses both carbines and shorter pistol-braced variants.
The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 is a 9mm carbine that takes CZ’s classic Scorpion machine pistol and updates it to a modern (and civilian legal) design that is sleeker, and more reliable.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
While the pistol variant gives you that maneuverability.
I’ll save some space here and just send you to our complete CZ Scorpion EVO review…suffice to say its an excellent take on a classic and it will absolutely earn its keep in a home defense scenario.
3. Kalashnikov USA KP-9
Fancy a 9mm AK that’s as close as you can get to the Russian Vityaz used by special forces?
Check out the Kalashnikov USA KP-9.
This might be the most fun PCC we’ve tested so far!
Controls are typical AK but we opted for a slightly upgraded safety selector lever that lets you lock back the bolt.
However you don’t get any last round bolt hold open (LRBHO).
But you’ll forget that when you’re tearing up the range. It’s a direct blowback system but you can’t tell with how it stays on target.
And yes…it loves being suppressed.
How about mags?
It uses proprietary Vityaz ones (sorry Glock fanboys). They are reasonably priced around $30 from K-USA. We also got some third party PUFGUN mags but they didn’t slam home as nicely.
Words can’t do it justice…check out our full review of the KP-9 here.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
And of course the video:
4. PSA AK-V
Looking for a home-grown version that’s an homage to the Vityaz? Check out PSA’s AK-V.
It’s not an exact duplicate of the VP-9 but rather an homage. However, there’s some nice additions like a last round bolt hold open and a buffer system in the back.
The LRBHO itself is worth the price of admission!
Plus a different mag-catch and it takes affordable & plentiful Scorpion mags.
There were some initial hiccups in manufacturing but PSA has gotten it dialed in now. And the are staying in stock for a few days instead of minutes. I’d still sign up for alerts for special model combos.
Again we had a blast shooting it and can’t wait to suppress it soon.
Check out our full review of the AK-V here.
Boom…video!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
5. Kel-Tec SUB-2000
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is a semi-automatic carbine that supports 9mm or .40 S&W cartridges, depending on your caliber preferences.
There’s a lot to love about the SUB-2000 carbine. For starters, before you buy the gun, you can choose which handgun magazine that you want it to take so that you can use the carbine interchangeably with your favorite sidearm.
Compatible magazines include various Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, Beretta, and Glock handguns.
Don’t let its simple design fool you. The SUB-2000 is anything but basic
When it comes to comfort and convenience, the SUB-2000 earns a gold star. It weighs a total of 4.25 pounds without ammo and is 30.5 inches in length, and it can also be collapsed and stored away in a compact location.
Great features include:
- Fiber optic front sight for easily lining up targets.
- The bolt is located underneath the buttstock in a convenient and out-of-the-way position.
- Tons of aftermarket parts available.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
The SUB-2000 is a solid gun that combines power, accuracy, and comfort, and is a great gun for its price.
Also, since it’s a Kel-Tec, you’re protected under a lifetime warranty in the event of something malfunctioning.
Check out our full in-depth review.
6. CMMG Banshee
The CMMG Banshee utilizes a proprietary “radial delayed blowback” gas system instead of gas blowback. Whatever it is…it seriously lowers the recoil especially during rapid fire.
There’s 9mm and other “regular” calibers…but we hands-on tested a big boy 10mm version.
It ran like a scalded dog, ate up that extra 10mm recoil, and looked pretty to finish it all out.
There’s different levels of CMMG guns from the 100 to 200 and 300. We had the 300 so everything was already decked out. However prices go up as fast as the model numbers!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Check the full review of the CMMG Banshee 300 in 10mm or even the 5.7x28mm version. But remember, it also comes in 9mm!
7. PSA 9mm PX-9
Our Editor’s Pick for an entry-level 9mm AR-15 PCC that is reliable and takes Glock mags is the PX-9.
Apologies for the CA-neutered version below. It’s been freed since!
Though it doesn’t have last round bolt hold open…it gives you the familiarity of the AR platform and all the potential upgrade potential.
Check it out in a night-time competition!
And with a slightly modded upper!
And our full review where we deep-dive into its reliability, accuracy, and more.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
8. B&T APC9 Pro
Looking for something Gucci…and sort of recently chosen by the US Army for their sub-machine gun?
Check out the B&T APC9 Pro coming in from Switzerland.
One cool thing about the APC series is that the upper half is the serialized portion…so you can get different lowers for different magazines. We opted for the Glock compatible lower while you can also go with B&T specific or even Sig P320 mags.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
It has a nice non-reciprocating charging handle and controls very similar to an AR. But ambidextrous!
However, you’re going to need a little training for this specific platform to get proficient if you’re moving over from the AR platform.
However, it’s super soft-shooting and suppresses well. But keep in mind that it’s a tri-lug adapter. We had to get a specific adapter to work with our 1/2×28 threads on our Banish 45.
Check out our full review of the B&T APC9 Pro.
And ,of course, we have a video:
9. Aero Precision EPC
Aero’s EPC (Enhanced Pistol Caliber) is definitely enhanced!
There are some small quality of life improvements to the AR-9 system that sets it apart from the PSA.
- last round bolt hold open (yay)
- threaded bolt catch paddle so you don’t mar the finish if you choose to build the lower yourself
- flared magazine well for easier mag changes
- hardened fire control group to keep up with PCC recoil
All these things make it our current best bang-for-the-buck AR-9 on the market.
We had a lot of fun running it in the day (and night) out in the desert and it ate up all the rounds we could throw at it.
Plus, since it’s an AR platform, we really dug its upgrade potential.
See the full review and list of upgrades in our Aero Precision EPC Review.
Want to grab one? Aero is marketing it more as a build-your-own type…but you can snag completed uppers and lowers below.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Video time!
If you’re looking for more AR-9s…check out our standalone Best Pistol Caliber AR-15s (AR-9) article.
10. Ruger PC Carbine
It should be noted that Ruger has long been a fan of pistol-caliber carbines, but they’ve never taken off for Ruger. There was the Ruger Police Carbine and the Ruger Deerfield Carbine.
Luckily Ruger’s PC Carbine has been the hit Ruger deserves.
The Ruger PC Carbine packs tons of modern features into a rather tried and true design. It’s not much different in layout than the 10/22 and the old-school PC Carbine design.
Ruger released many different models, and every one of them is a winner.
Ruger wisely integrated the takedown feature into the PC Carbine to make it extremely compact and easy to transport. The gun has a reversible charging handle that can be swapped for left or right-handed use.
Also, the magwell can be swapped.
Ruger ships the gun with a Ruger magwell in place but also includes a magwell that allows the use of Glock magazines.
This humble but wise move opens Ruger PC owners to a ton of affordable and easily available Glock magazines in varying capacities.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
The integral system uses a blowback design unique to the PC Carbine series and features a tungsten weight. This dead blow blowback system helps eliminate the recoil associated with blowback systems and works rather well.
Sadly, tungsten increases the gun’s weight; the lighter these guns are, the better.
If the PC Carbine is a bit too big for you, check out the PC Charger, a pistol variant of this gun compatible with various pistol braces.
Get more deets by watching our video below or reading the full review here!
11. Auto-Ordnance Thompson M1
Let’s take a step backward, back to the days of World War II.
World War II was the submachine gun war – and one of the most legendary submachine guns was the Thompson.
Finding a transferable Thompson SMG is tough and expensive, admittedly, but finding a PCC variant isn’t so tough.
Auto-Ordnance produces a pistol-caliber carbine variant of the Thompson in various configurations, with my favorite being the famed M1 model.
Obviously, some changes are made, and the Auto-Ordnance variant features a closed bolt, semi-auto-only design with a 16-inch barrel to keep it off the NFA. (SBR variants are available as well.)
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson M1 is far from modern and is more for fun than any serious task. Boy, oh boy, is it a fun gun.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
It’s an 11-pound steel and wood gun that chunks out America’s finest .45 ACP rounds. It’s not made to be practical, and in a world where PCCs can weigh less than 5 pounds, the Auto-Ordnance is more about style than practicality.
This chunky beast is a ton of fun, though. For many of us, it’s the closest we can get to a Thompson without tens of thousands of dollars.
While it might not be super practical, these guns are very well made. I’ve found them to be exceptionally accurate, very reliable, and 11 pounds makes them dang near recoil-free.
The Thompson M1 provides that scant World War II feel and look, and some may prefer the gangster grip-equipped 1927-A1 model.
Either way, you get a fun gun that will certainly gather some looks at the range and give you that feeling of historical goodness.
12. JP Enterprises GMR-15
With USPSA PCC competition becoming more and more popular, we will most certainly start to see certain guns popping up more and more.
One such model is the JP Enterprises GMR-15. GMR clearly stands for Gamer, and 15 is because it’s an AR-15, or so I assume.
The GMR-15 is used by 22% of PCC competitors. It’s a factory rifle that comes outfitted with many features that refine it into a state-of-the-art PCC competition rifle.
JP Enterprises produces tons of high-end AR stuff, and they seemingly tossed it all into this PCC. This includes the Supermatch barrel, which drives 9mm accuracy about as far as it can go.
When paired with the awesome JP Enterprises trigger, it makes placing 9mm holes in tiny paper and cardboard targets quite easy.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
I love the dual-charge design that features a standard AR-15 charging handle and a side charging handle on the left side.
The buffer system is the JP Enterprises silent captured spring tuned specifically for the 9mm round. A nice compensator shakes up muzzle rise and recoil and keeps the gun super handy. It’s going to be loud, but it’s going to be controllable and easy to steer between targets.
JP Enterprises also ensures the gun’s ergonomics with a proper magazine release, a super lightweight handguard, and your choice of various rifle stocks.
The GMR-15 provides an out-of-the-box option, all you need to do is add an optic, and you can hit the competition ground running.
Oh, and yes, it takes Glock magazines.
Conclusion
Here are some of the advantages of the pistol-caliber carbine:
- They’re lighter and more mobile than rifles.
- They fire at a higher velocity than their handgun counterparts.
- They’re not as loud as most rifles and handguns.
- Lower recoil than most rifles with the exception of .22 caliber rifles.
- Virtually all of the same accessories that you can add to your rifles, like optics, flashlights, and vertical foregrips can be mounted on your carbine.
The caliber you choose depends widely on your personal preference, especially when you have to choose between a .45 ACP and a 9mm. Or even 10mm!
If money is a factor, remember that the 9mm ammo is significantly cheaper than all the other calibers.
Regardless of the caliber you go with, you’ll get much more stability and accuracy with your carbine than with a handgun.
What’s your take on PCCs…what did end up going with? Looking for the Best AR-9…we’ve got an article for that. As well as Best 9mm Ammo and Best 9mm/.45 ACP Suppressors to fully kit out your gun.
262 Leave a Reply
Wondering why the Kriss Vector was not on the list. Super stable shooting and with a stock (properly SBR approved), it is incredible to shoot.
Why no reviews or even comments re: Hi-Point guns. There are inexpensive, reliable, and 100% American made. The have a wide range of pistols and PCCs.
Added the Keltec Sub2000 but left off the Just Right Carbine take down? I own both and would rather use the Keltec as a club than a rifle. The sight position is awful and the noise from the buffer tube just makes it no fun to shoot. JRC can switch right hand and left hand, switch caliber by changing the barrel and the bolt, and accommodate different mag types by changing the mag well. For a rifle under $600 I think you missed the mark by not adding this great rifle.
I agree - the list needs a serious update. I happen to have the S & W FPC 9mm and I love it. Loved the price also.
July of 2022...this list needs a serious update. A lot of new or newer PCCs out there know. Maybe after Shot Show.
We have a few articles that are in need of an update. We're steadily working on them. Just hired a new editor to help with that so stay tuned!
Extar EP9 - Check it out - Sold directly from manufacturer in Arizona - Best deal for half or less the price - Lots of YouTubes - Incredible deal - Starts at $450
What about the S&W folding pcc?
If you would like a beautiful walnut finish 9mm carbine, check out the Henry Homesteader. It’s shoots as well as any of these guns, other than the Sig. Way better than the Ruger. And it’s gorgeous!
You know what would be the ideal PCC for home defense? A bullpup. But there are no 9mm PCC bullpups on the US market since the ATF forced IWI to take its 9mm X-95 and associated conversion kits off the market. The ATF did so without explanation. That needs to be challenged.
If you would like a beautiful walnut finish 9mm carbine, check out the Henry Homesteader. It’s shoots as well as any of these guns, other than the Sig. Way better than the Ruger. And it’s gorgeous!
My M&P FPC is still laughing at your list.
No FX9? Why not? Genuine question.
Extar EP9 is great value.
You list is pretty incomplete. What about Extar or Keltec Sub2000?
Recently got myself a Kriss Vector SDP-E in 10mm and really enjoy it!
I would have liked to have seen your take on the JP-5. I already have a GMR-15 and a comparison would have been nice.
Since the majority of pistols I have are in 45acp., and 10mm, I have Mach-Tec carbines for both. Both are very accorate, and reliable.
The Scorpion Evo is only available in 22LR. The 3+ is the current model in 9MM. I purchased the 3+ pistol and Form One’d into a SBR.
I own a Smith and Wesson FPC.
I could not ask for more from a PCC, other than to be Glock compatible.
It eats everything I throw at it, without fail.
It is an absolute tack driver out as far as my eyes can see.
Very little recoil so I can keep on target effortlessly.
The folding feature is amazing.
It allows me to take 63 rds on board the rifle and as much ammo as I feel like carrying in a backpack.
It is damn near perfect.
My 2¢
This artichoke noids to be updated so as to include consideration for the new Smith&Wesson offerings. Thanks!
You didn’t mention the HK MP5 / SP5 PCC? If it were not for the lack of a LRBHO, that would absolutely be my first choice. I ended up with a Colt 634, mainly because of the standard manual of arms between the 5.56 and 9mm models, including the LRBHO, and the absolutely unlimited amount of aftermarket support.
No UZI ?
Handier than most here.
Both Ruger and Henry make a PCC that looks like a traditional rifle. Ruger would be my choice, because Honest Outlaw did a review of the Henry, and it wouldn't feed!
I prefer a traditional-style rifle, because if you ever go to court for a self-defense shooting, you will fare better with the jury if your rifle was traditional as opposed to AR-15 style.
I wish the Ruger had a genuine wood stock like the Henry. The Henry is a beautiful rifle.
Every mfr can have a rifle that doesn't function to standards. I wouldn't shy away from the Henry because if you do have an issue, they are going to fix it, no questions asked. Not that I have anything against Ruger. I do not. Just saying, if you like the Henry other than the issue Honest Outlaw had, I wouldn't worry.
My Ruger PC in 9mm DOES have a wooden stock, I think as they all did when the model first came out 5 or 6 years ago. I prefer it over the “skeletonized” looking synthetic furniture of the most recent models. Of course, there’s also my wood furniture Ruger Deerfield in .44 Mag but, that may be a bit much for in-home defense in addition to the fact that it’s only 4 plus 1.
I wish I could find a Ruger 77-357
I got my hands on a Ruger 77/44 a year ago. I'd definitely keep your eyes peeled, they are cool guns and definitely worth it. I can squeeze about 1 MOA out of mine and it is a super fun and handy rifle.
You forgot the vector but I think the banshi is better and more tactical that the vector in 10 mm or 9mm
Maybe people buy stuff because they like it? ¯_(ツ)_/¯
where are stribog and LMT?
any article this old should never be reprinted anywhere but the archives.
Some descent PCCs that could've been added; Extar EP9 and the Freedom Ordinance FX 9, Foxtrot Mike.
When you get the chance to update the list consider the Stribog K. I know it’s a pistol, but that doesn’t seem to be the point here. My Stribog K (or mini) is fantastic and the redesigned curved mags haven’t had any problems.
Outdated and the author does not know a pistol from a carbine.
We're in the process of updating our older content so hang tight and thanks for reading!
Gotta mention the Beretta Cx4!
Windham Weaponry 9mm Carbine is a new PCC, which should be reviewed. An American company that deserves the light of day.
Highpoint 9 mm carbine? Thoughts?
I bought a 20mm high point carbine because I carry a clock 20sf for bear protection and liked the idea of a carbine using the same ammo.
I found it
1. NOT SEXY. If you want the coolest looking gun on the block this isn't it.
2. Accurate I'm getting sub moa grouping at 100yds
3 Reliable. I've put over 2,000 rnds through it with nary a problem.
Definitely more bang/buck
It'd be fun to see a heads up comparison between any of these and an SP5. Of course the SP5 is 60s tech but it has stood the test of time and I would love to see what's been gained and what's been lost.
"12 Best Pistol-Caliber Carbines"
And yet the first half of the photos are of PISTOLs. Does the author not understand the difference between a carbine and a pistol?
Jesus Christ.
what would be the most versatile scope for an AR9 16 INCH BARREL?
And, the M-1 Carbine? You missed that one and it’s superb.
They’re called “pistol caliber carbines”. No one considers .30 carbine a pistol caliber. You missed the title of the article
I disagree. .30 caliber Carbine is considered by many, if not most, as a pistol caliber.
Any “best” list that has 2x PSA’s and a kel Tec in the top 7 must be questioned for authenticity.
These are in no specific order! :)
And apparently, don't even have to be CARBINES.
This author is an idiot.
Extar EP9?
First and foremost, kudos to you Sir and your team your kindness enthusiasm and knowledge reaches far beyond your comprehension. I reside in CT and I came across people that you helped jump start their YouTube channels. That being said what options do i have besides the Ruger carbine? CT is not very gun friendly
Really surprised none of New Frontier Armory's myriad of PCCs didn't make the list, especially the C-5 that takes MP5 magazines.
I think the Extar EP-9 is amazing for the money so I would like to add that to this list. Also, I own a TNW Aero Survival Pistol in 10 MM that is a fantastic little rig IMHO! I own a Ruger PC-9 and the PCC Charger as well & love them both. Excellent article! Huge fan of the PCC platform. Keep up the good work, Pew Pew!
Thanks for the suggestions and for reading!
This review/overview is not complete without Foxtrot Mike Products (FM Products) PCC, Taran Tactical TR9 Stinger that is based on FM Products' lower, Lead Star, and, as mentioned by others, Kriss Vector.
We're constantly updating articles and will definitely keep these in mind! Thanks!
great article of PCC's In my opinion you should have mentioned several others not just the Gucci PCC's others like the EXTAR EP9 for $450 is a steal even though it is mostly polymer, or the HiPoint Carbine which is one of the most desired PCC's on the market, both will run with the big dogs, but I believe the ETAR EP9 falls under a PDW though. which now I believe there is a difference between P.C.C. and a PDW. abbreviations change faster then I can keep up with them. from my understanding a P.C.C. now is considered a rifle style and a PDW being a pistol style variant. stupid right!! I just had to mention it, so people do not look foolish when talking about one or the other. People should give credit where credit is due, and not just the ones they were paid to do, at one point or another brand does not men "Best" just expensive and gucci. sorry if I have offended anyone it was not truly meant to, just wanted to get the truth out there, and interrupt the FAKE News
Hey there, thanks for reading. Just wanted to clear up any confusion: we are not paid for reviews or to include any brands in any articles. What makes the list is based on the author's opinion. If your chosen model is not listed, it doesn't mean it's not a good model, just that we didn't have space to mention it. Unfortunately, we can't list everything on the market. Thanks for the feedback though!
Should also include the KRISS Vector in your list!
Kind of odd not one bull pup??
Could yo review the pcc made by Bersa in the US, its an AR based carbine.
Eric, sorry but you have to rewrite this article. The Kalashnikov KR9, KP9 and Kali 9 are fantastic guns which you have given very favorable reviews in previous articles and videos. I would wager the Kalashnikov is a far better gun than any of them in this article except the Sig Sauer. So solid, so reliable, soft shooting and super accurate. Worth the price. Get back to work!
Hey Steve, thanks for reading and commenting. We do like the KP9, which is why we included it in this article in the #3 spot!
I have a CMMG banshee upper for two reasons same magazine platform and controls less expensive ammo with the ability to shoot steel at closer ranges.
Lol, let's not forget the Hi Point Model 995. It's a Planet of the Apes carbine, cheap, a bitch to disassemble, and heavy-but accurate as hell and eats everything I've thrown in it.
For fun to shoot and novelty you bet. From a self-defense standpoint I will stay with 5.56. Very low recoil and able to penetrate armor. With 77grn MK262-mod1 mixed with M855A1 .. I will keep what works
What about the Angstadt UDP-9 or the Brigade BM-9?
I built my own PCC, 9mm. Cost less than these and performs just as well if not better.
It shoots the same round but the experience is much different. You should try some of these and see the difference.
I have tried some of those. The one I built cost less and performs just as well if not better.
Did you leave out the Kriss VECTOR deliberately or just forget!?!? The 10mm version is probably the best 10mm PCC, just due to being able to handle the 10mm round like a champ
Just wondering, did you or have you considered the Ruger PC Charger?
I have found that mine is exactly what I needed, and wanted!
I love our Charger too. Green Dot, laser mounted, and an absolute blast to shoot. Quite accurate as well out to at least 25 yards. It is very, very hard to put down.
No mention of gsg 16 22lr wow at 300 and it's very tactical design I'm shocked it's awesome.
It’s most likely because they are trying to not discuss complete garbage.
Disappointed that the Stribog SP9A1 is not on the list. No issues with mine and it loves being suppressed.
The article seemed to primarily promote these weapons for home defense, but I'm more interested in their use in an urban meltdown situation, so I was wondering which of the handgun cartridges are more accurate at which distances? I'd like to know how far I can reasonably expect to stop a threat with the various calibers.
This is peak “affordable” blog guy aka not mentioning the best because of price lol I stopped reading after the first two
Although I have a pistol permit our county is very slow and red tape laden and inconvenient for pistol registration. Rifle purchases and registration can be done "IN STORE" quickly and conveniently, so please explain are these considered a pistol or a rifle?!
depends on barrel length/overall length. 16" barrel and 26" overall makes it a rifle as far as i know, most of these are likely offered in those configurations. just double check ATF regulations, dont take my dumb ass word for word
Go with 300 Black out in an urban environment.
Extar Ep9...
What about the extra 9mm? Ar controls, inexpensive and works. Also, the ruger pc carbine.?
This articles begining is plain irresponsible.
Rifle rounds and pistol rounds are NOT equal. When you need to stop a threat, you NEED a rifle, not a pistol round. This is NOT a debatable topic. It is undisputed FACT!
Pisol rounds
I guess everyone should just throw away their shotguns and pistols, ignore their specific surroundings and stick a rifle down their pants, eh? Our military & police can save a bundle by not having sidearms, and manufacturer's can streamline their operations by no longer building anything but rifles. No need to reply, after all, it's "NOT debatable" and is an "undisputed FACT!"
Only problem I have with this article is all the guns they are showing. Most of them have arm braces for shooting. That makes it a pistol not a rifle.
You start shooting them from the shoulder it’s a short barrel rifle. Which will get you in trouble without the proper permits
At this moment in time, you can shoulder a pistol brace. But either way, who cares? If your life is on the line just do what you have to do.
Thanks for the article. I tend to trust your reviews. I’m partial to CZ products and the Scorpion has been around in one or another configuration for some time, and the price seems right so that is my choice.
Says this article was posted 2 weeks ago? No way in heck the AK-V was going for $789
We regularly update older articles and push them to the front of the site. When this originally ran, the AK-V was slightly less. But the price has been updated reflecting the current market. Thanks for reading!
Brah, how you not even going to have the Ruger PC on this list? Suspicious.
Damn skippy bro. I've had mine now only a couple months but have put over 200 rounds through it. Tuned to hit 4" groups at 100 yards & still on the paper at 200. AND WAY too much fun to shoot. AND ammo is still available & not cost prohibitive.
I agree! Why leave out this gun? I absolutely Love my Ruger
PCC9 Chassis. This article smells like a paid advertisement disguised as an article.
I love my PC9
Nice article Eric.
I think the Extar EP9 should be included. Great gun for the price!
I have a mostly spikes tactical build (cmmg trigger)Great gun 8.5 inch barrel ,last round lock back, spikes barking spider muzzle device. This is a quality no issues pcc. Surprised o one has mentioned it.
Hi there,
I am usually a big fan of the PPT articles, but this one really disappointed me. 7 (or 8) "best" PCC ??? No H&K MP5, no B&T APC (9, 10 or 45) and no Ruger PC9, but on the other hand 2 AK based and 3 AR-9 based, you can't be serious here... I am no hater, but this is really crap (no offense Eric).
If you are going to title the article as “carbines” then make sure all listed are at least carbine length barrels……not pistol length barrels.
Review: Best rifle caliber pistols?
"Pistol Caliber Carbine" is the lead in to the article.... and yet the top listed is a Pistol Caliber Pistol... barrel less than 16". There are several of those in the mix. Why is that?
I quit buying from PSA. The horrendous Customer Service isn't worth the slightly lower prices. Unless you love writing multiple letters, e-mails, and waiting on hold for an hour. Otherwise, good article.
They've stopped shipping to Illinois, despite the fact that I can get anything and everything here (and I most certainly do - LOL). While I appreciate the company's objective of putting as many arms into the hands of the people as possible to fully overwhelm any attempts at grabbing or banning guns, they need to spend a bit more effort in the customer service area as you mention.
Enjoyed & Learned as usual, Thank You & keep up the good work! B Webb Atlanta
Have you tried the JP GMR 9mm carbine? I think the majority of 3-gun competitors use this because of its accuracy and reliability. It’s really cool looking too, and has great features.
Foxtrot Mike is missing
I "had" a new generation Kel-Tec Sub 2000 ( Glock magazine ), I liked how it folded to make a compact weapon for storage, however the trigger was sub par and the sights were very hard to line up ( the rear sight was 1/4 inch to low to allow a comfortable cheek weld) the front sight was hight adjustable though. a good design that needed some improvements to make it user friendly.
I am VERY Disappointed that you didn't put a "American Resistance" 9mm Carbine in the mix. Trust me when I say, that AR makes a FINEA$$ weapon that runs and runs.
AND you can stuff it in your smallest backpack if you choose the "Takedown" model. Just saying guys.......
CMMG 16inch 9mm. Did not feed well. My gunsmith said no throat, rifled to the case mouth. Now throated, it runs. Less recoil than plain blowback.
Why did you left Foxtrot Mike out
It one of the best
So, pistol accuracy suffers after 15 yards or so. Let me see, that is around forty-five feet. How big is you house? The longest sight picture in my house is less than twenty feet. At that distance, with my Glock 30 (.46 ACP), I shoot fist sized groups all say long using my sights. When I shoot point and shoot style it opens up about a half an inch (Just a little bit bigger fist size). I just don't see the need for a carbine SD weapon. The article is great though.
Sad to see so many people talking about the "need" of buying a new gun, when they could buy a pistol brace, or CAA MCK conversion, instead, to fill the same sort of role. It would have been a good point to add to the original article as another option, but not a criticism, too many options are available as it is.
Yes, you can keep your current handgun investment, and still have a better "medium range" firearm, if that's what you want to do, without buying a new "carbine", if your goal is versatility. The downside is, you need a compatible handgun that will fit these braces or "conversion kits", of course.
There’s nothing “sad” about the need of buying a new gun. Sure, there are kits to convert handguns to be braced but why bother when there is so many dedicated PCCs that shoot better.
I agree about the Ruger Charger 9mm.
It's an inexpensive option that shoots very well.
I didn't expect them to be mentioned, but I have more fun shooting my lowly HiPoints, 9,10,45 than my several ARs. All three cost less than most listed. Not better, but for inside home defense, just as effective and just as fun. My budget Turkish ANG10 12ga also nice insider.
To each their own. Most would not be caught dead with a Hi Point, which is how you will be caught when your life depends on one!
You have no idea how good the Hi Point is,you don't have one
just say Duh.
I use a 40SW CMMG Resolute in 3 Gun having previously used my Hi-Point. After thousands and thousands of rounds through each you won't hear me bashing Hi-Point.
just say Duh.
I use a 40SW CMMG Resolute in 3 Gun having previously used my Hi-Point. After thousands and thousands of rounds through each you won't hear me bashing Hi-Point.
Odd that the Ruger PCC isn't among the guns. I have one, it is the same length as my Colt M4 SBR. It shoots very good, has been reliable, even though I haven't shot a lot due to the ammo shortage. It also isn't a pistol with a brace. Those are going to be illegal within days thanks to the ATF.
Hello, fellow gun owner! Thank you for the information.
How about the Ruger PC Charger???
BTW, I don't think he understands bore either. The 45 ACP is a bigger bore than the 10mm.
I don't see Ruger's PC Charger on the list...
How about the Armalite AR-19?
"the 7 best pistol caliber carbines" is a lot like
"the 7 best kale salads"
or "the 7 best tuna casseroles"
yes...some are better than others
but why eat any of them when theres pizza bratwurst and cheeseburgers on the menu
First, the Sig Sauer MPX-K in #1 is spot on! It is so far ahead the next pistol should be in 5th place ;) Why not include B&T APC9 or APC9K Pro or the Falkor Defense FG-9? With 3 PSAs on the list both would be top 5 contenders.
Hi Eric;
What about the Ruger PC9?
Better trigger, less recoil, and cheaper than a scorpion. Takes glock mags. When he realizes he missed it, he'll slap his head and make an edit to the post.
I concur. Why wasn't listed. Fun! Inexpensive! Highly-Accurate! Take-down!
I have 3 PCC'S
CZ Scorpian EVO3 S1
KELTEC SUB2K GEN II
BRIGADE MFG BM9
I LOVE all 3 of them.
Next on on my list is the Sig Sauer M400 9mm Tread.
What is the gun in the last picture with the caption. How can you ignore something that looks s cool
Why isn’t the KUSA’s KP9 on the list? It’s an incredible pcc, especially one that Russian police use.
cmmg 9mm carbine, not reliable. No throat, rifling back to case mouth. Throated and now runs. Less jumpy than straight blow back.
Why is it not reliable? Was thinking on getting one... cmmg banshee
Has anyone experienced the Glock fed Foxtrot Mike FM9? I’ve added a longer rail to the 5.5” barrel to cover a blast suppressor and a tail hook brace with the sylvan arms folder. Reflex with 45 degree irons and a small light. Perfect for home defense (and fits in a backpack if that’s your thing).
They are all butt ugly compared to the Marlin Camp 9 and 45 carbines. Beautiful wood and steel.
Blasphemy!!! How did you include the high point and not the ruger pc 9mm . It's my favorite to shoot out of all my guns.. I'm very disappointed the ruger wasn't included!
Me too! I hope you have seen the PCSH41 build of it. Absolutely amazing.
That last Pic, the one you said is "So freeking Cool",.... IT IS!!! I Want it! Which one is this???
You mentioned a .357 pcc in your article but didn't list one. I am very interested to know who makes one. Also, I have owned an earlier sub2k and regret selling it. .40cal. accurate light and fun
That's an error on our end, sorry. That should have read "357 SIG" not magnum. We'll fix that! Also, here is one of the 357 SIG guns!
I read about the Olympic k10 in 10mm. Been trying to find more info on the firearm and company. Are they still in business?
The Hi-Point 995 TS is arguably the best overall budget PCC. It commonly outperforms the Beretta CX4 Storm, Keltec Sub 2000, and the Ruger PC9.
My favorite is my Ruger PC Carbine. It takes Ruger American, Glock or Ruger SR-9 magazines, the latter which comes with the Carbine.
I own a Ruger American, so can use the same magazines in both my pistol or rifle.
The SR-9 magazine will not fit in the American pistol,.
I bought a couple extra Ruger American, 9mm magazines, then modified the latch hole in one, to see if it would work in the Carbine. It did, so I modified the rest so they could be used in either the 9mm American pistol or the Carbine, and the SR-9 magazine could still be used in the Carbine, all without changing the magazine well, which would have allowed me to use the American mags, but not the SR-9.
Then there is the fun fact that the Carbine takes about ten seconds or so to break down so it's about half it's operating length. Like the break down version of the 10-22.
When you pick the Carbine up, you know it's built. Throw a red dot on it, it plunks cans all day long.
100% Agree
Where does Foxtrot Mike fall on the list.
Woohoo, just bought one of these and am excited to see it mentioned in comment #2!
Extar Ep9 should have been in the top 3.
Definitely. I’ve owned both the Sub2000 and a PSA 9mm carbine. My EXTAR9 is my favorite current firearm. Great ergos , Glock mags, eats the crappiest ammo and the best ammo without a hiccup. Out of the box slapped a Vortex Strikefire on it and a sling and literally love it. Zero recoil. Had it recently at Buds in Tn indoor range. 2 guys had rented Skorpion 9mm and they saw me shooting the EX9 they shot it and when they found out the price both swore it would be their next purchase
What about the Extar EP9?
Just some FYI - As far as the very first pic at the top of the article goes, I did a "right click save as" on it - it has "wilson-combat-pistol-caliber-carbine" in the title.
But as far as the last pic goes of that really nice lookin one, I did the same but it does not have any telling info in it's title....hopefully Pew-Pew chimes in here....kind of bizarre they don't put a label below all their pics, I mean the whole idea is information and advertising right?
That last picture happens to be a SUPER early one for us before we got so awesome at making sure everything was named right. Sorry :(
10-4, in hindsite, wish I didn't get quite so critical in that last sentence there but "too late now". Anyway, I apologize for that - thanks for the reply and thanks for a great website, appreciate all the info on here.
Your apology is great but the question still remains in my mind. What brand and model in the last “cool” pic?
We don't remember :(
This is an outdated article. Things are changing fast in the PCC arena!
I WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE VERY LAST GUN-NOT DISCUSSED IS. THE ONE YOU WROTE-How can you ignore something that looks so freaking cool?
Agreed. I came here to ask that as well.
First picture shows the excellent, reliable, inexpensive, developed for law enforcement, Ruger PC Carbine. Yet it apparently wasn't exotic enough to make the cut. I like mine. Fun to shoot. Accurate. I installed a red-dot. Take down/set up in a twinkle.
Dead on. I modified my American mags (very simple) so they work in the SR-9 well and I can use all the SR-9 mag in either my Ruger American pistol or the PC Carbine.
This is the gun I want, what is the brand, name and caliber?
https://www.pewpewtactical.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ar-9-pistol-caliber-carbine-1024x576.jpg
Any response yet? Just like you .. this is the best looking of the bunch IMHO.
Do u have to take the cover off the berol that the lights and stuff connect too to clean the berol
Why don't firearms manufacturers make this style in .44 Magnum? Seems like the perfect platform for that round.
You forgot the PC Carbine
Decibel Level can vary significantly between the loads. If you can go subsonic borderline at 1,100 FPS or lower with a 200 grain 40 caliber or a 45 caliber with 230 grains you’ll have knockdown power with less blast - less wear on your ears indoors.
Hmm
sdf can't see the comment section
I love my hi point 995st. Always work s
I think the Ruger PCC9 belongs on this list! It's a joy to shoot, even for a 100 pound girl, and has several really cool features, like its ability to be quickly separated into 2 pieces and carried in a larger purse! It's great!
Loving mine too. Inexpensive, fun, accurate, discrete
Please check out Extar EP9. Real fun American made 9mm PCC. Thx
I recently purchased the Hi-point 4595 TS carbine straight out of the box 75 yards 8” steel swinging g targets 7 hits ten shots ! Next up 20 round mag . My 11 year old son emptied the mag and LOVED it Very low recoil . Just added compensator and fore grip . Looking forward to next range trip with him .
Ruger pcc 9 or 40.
I have two Hi-Point 4595TS carbines and I have to say they in no way deserve the hate. Neither of them have ever had a single FTF, FTE, stovepipe or jam in any way, even when feeding them cheap soviet block steel cased ammo. They eat anything you feed them, and I can’t even come close to saying that about my Sub 2K. Plus, I did a trigger kit, stainless recoil rod, and upgraded recoil spring on both of them for about $30.00 apiece. Tough to beat that. It’s like buying a Honda instead of a Mercedes, but sometimes inexpensive doesn’t mean cheap. And seriously, they’re not THAT ugly...
HI-POINTS CARBINES ARE EXCELLENT.
I just bought a SKO SHORTY 12ga semi shotgun , I have only fired it 10 times . so far no misfires or problems . it came with a 5 round mag , and I bought two 10 rounders . it is easy to fire but you must keep a tight grip to make the action work well . It is a very short pistol grip gun easy to move in tight space . I added a very bright streamlite where the front handle was .
Just finished an ar9 build. Mostly Spikes Tactical parts. 8.7 inch barrel, barking spider, glock mags. Great quality.
I Love My hi point carbines!! Have the 9 10 and 45. Quite accurate and fun to shoot. I know a master gunsmith that owns several hi point pistols and wouldn't get rid of them for anything. Inexpensive gun not a cheap gun.
Why ignore Mech-Tech? I have one for my 1911 and it is wonderful. Plus, it keep that proper trigger, which can't be beat by any competitor. Ever! Mech-Tech also makes Carbine Conversion Units for pistols other than 1911, but if you don't have a 1911, you have an inferior trigger.
Ruger PC Carbine. Takes Glock and Ruger American Pistol Mags with the switch of a part. Free float handguard option available. Never shot one, but Ruger is known for not being a slouch. Might be worth a review!
My son bought one and like every other Ruger I've put my hands on it is right as rain. Accurate. Fun. Ruff and ready as a Ruger should be.
One other thing. I've owned several of the Hi-Point Carbines and can attest to the fact that they are every bit as accurate and reliable as their more expensive counterparts. The only detrimental part is their limited round magazines. However, that is due to the political climate in several of the states where these carbines are sold and not to Hi-Points not wanting to make their carbines able to take larger capacity magazines. If all you can afford is a Hi-Point carbine, you are well protected by it if you practice with it diligently and get some extra mags.
One of the funnest PCCs that I know of is the Chiappa M1-9mm carbine. Patterned on the M1 Carbine, it is a direct blow-back operated carbine that takes M9/Beretta 92 magazines. While the bolt area looks a lot different than the M1 Carbine, it is the same weight (5.4 lbs) and just as easy to handle as its namesake. Overall, a great PCC for those who prefer the wood and steel guns over the polymer and steel of "modern" guns.
I have several PCCs and have shot several others. The smoothest is a direct impingement AR in 45 ACP. Ron at rmwxtreme.com as far as I know pioneered the AR gas system for .45ACP and is a wizard. He worked with me to get exactly what I wanted. I've had 2 of his uppers and they are phenomenal. I used a Quarter Circle 10 receiver set (large Glock frame) and Yankee Hill handguard. Daniel Defense grip and stock, and a Geissele trigger, JP buffer spring system. It's like shooting a BB gun, especially when suppressed. :-D
What makes it a PCC? Is it the stock? Length? Or what? Is an AR9 with a brace or just buffer tube and a 4inch bbl still considered a PCC?
A barrel longer than 12 inches. Anything less makes it a pistol. Now for a non NFA carbine, you need a 16in. barrel and a stock. Less than 16 with a stock puts you in SBR territory.
I own the SUB-2000, the Freedom Arms FX-9, and I've converted (of all things) a Rueger 10/22 to a carbine bullpup configuration based on the P90 chassis. Of all of them, the FX-9 and the Rueger conversion are the best shooters, while the SUB-2000 is an astoundingly portable, usable, and lighweight firearm.
THe best part of the FX-9 and the SUB-2000? They share mags with my Glock 17 - which means I literally have complete portability between the three platforms. I can't stress enough how amazingly useful and significant that really is.
I've never had a misfeed problem, accuracy issues, or any other true complaint with any of the rifles, and - as I'm not a hunter and have no real use for rifle-caliber firearms? I find them absolutely excellent for both fun and home defense.
We shooters talk a lot (and winge) about ammunition caliber and effectiveness, but at the end of the day, the only really effective firearm is the one that you can afford to practice on, that's easy to set up and use, and that isn't a PITA to go to the range and shoot. These pistol carbines are all of these together, and I'd rather pick up one of these and go enjoy myself any day over any of the rifle-caliber firearms I own.
Don't underestimate the power of keeping your personal firearms to a single (or only a few) caliber choices.
As a side note? Most ranges have restrictions on range utilization based on caliber - rifle calibers aren't often allowed at pistol distances or indoors. These rifles can be used just about anywhere, and with less expense - meaning more opportunities to practice and a better shooter in the end.
I own a 995TS, the .380TS and the .40Cal TS. Contrary to popular misconception, they are very well made and efficient firearms. Hi-Point warrants the weapon for the life of the weapon...no questions asked. Next, I've never had any of them jam or stovepipe as long as the ammo wasn't the crappy lacquered steel cases from Russia...that stuff will jam any rifle. Try one out sometime and see what they can do. And, yes, they are great home defense weapons.
I agree! When doing firewood in the mountains, I like having a long gun with me. I found the 995TS makes a great woods gun due to it's short overall length, durability, and reliability. Plus, the no questions asked warranty! It's the only carbine I don't mind bouncing around on my atv's.
You forgot the true classic...
1866 WINCHESTER LEVER ACTION
The only true pistol caliber carbine in my eyes.
Also legal in California XD
I'm surprised that the Freedom Ordnance FX9 isn't on this list.
Available in 4", 8" and 16" barrels.
Unlike most AR type carbines that are built to accommodate the 9mm round, the FX9 is built around the 9mm round. Because of this, the billet upper and lower is slightly smaller (and lighter).
Everything else is mil spec, so you can customize the crap out of it.
It takes Glocks mags (the Promag 50 round drums work well!) It also has a last round hold open.
I absolutely love mine!
MSRP is $799, but you can buy them at $600 if you look around.
The Extar EP9 is frequently overlooked as a PCC. Like other guns in your review, it is a pistol with a brace. I have only put about 2000 rounds though mine, but it runs like a champ with no malfunctions and is very accurate. The EP9 takes Glock magazines, AR triggers and has a full length accessory rail (I'm running a first generation ACOG on the rail and it does not interfere with the side charging handle).
Extar weapons look like great shooters at a budget price.
I'll likely replace my Hi Point 4595TS with their EP45 at some point. I love my Hi Point .45 ACP, but the fact it doesn't take Glock mags makes it less than perfect. The takedown process is also difficult.
As for weight, the Extar EP45 is only a couple pounds lighter than the 4595TS, but trading two pounds in weapon weight for two pounds of ammo seems smarter.
I own the Extar EP9. I have to say with over 6000 rounds through it with not one problem, this is my personal favorite. I've shot many others and will admit many are nice but it comes at a price. Price was my primary concern when I purchased the Extar. However after the purchase several others in my department have purchased them as well. They are extremely reliable and very smooth to operate. Accuracy is extremely good. I will have to say I would personally rely on this weapon in a self protection situation. They take Glock mags and require very little maintenance, they weigh in at just over 4 pounds.
This is my opinion, others may see them as substandard, but I'll wager they haven't taken one to the range. I added a set of Magpul sights and a Sightmark reflex , I'm hitting a 18 inch gong at 100 yards.
This is like a who's who of PCCs... from 2010.
Stribog and PTR 9kt are some of the best on the market.
Brandon - what brand/model is the unnamed PCC in the photo at the very end of your article??
Technically speaking, that final weapon is an AR9 pistol and not a carbine. It has a barrel less than 16 inches and uses a pistol brace instead of a stock.
How do you like the Brigade bm-9 that is on the classic firearms website? I have not seen any reviews on it yet.
We haven't tried it, sorry
No Ruger PC Carbine!
How about the Ruger PC 9 M-LOK? Its amazing
Have to agree with a previous reviewer. If the list ever goes to 7, the Extar EP9 would look good at that spot. Have one and I love it - it's perfect in every way!
No mention of the MPX?
The Hi-Point carbine may work for people but not for me. If I were compiling this list though, I'd have put a Ruger Carbine on it rather than the Hi-Point or even the HK... I'm sure the HK is worthy of a 'best of' list but the price on it would most likely put it out of reach for many shooters.
Snob!
The Exrar EP9 looks to be a great firearm that is very reasonably priced. Check it out.
It's a pistol and doesn't fit on a list of carbines...
While technically true, the brace on the EP9 is easily shouldered and makes it run like a carbine...
357mag is hugely popular ever hear of marlin 1894 Winchester 92
PCC is normally considered to be semi-auto and .357 mag in a semi-auto PCC is almost unheard of, but I would agree that the old lever actions were the OG PCCs! I reviewed a Cimarron 1873 in .357 mag and it has quickly become one of my favorite rifles to plink at the range with.
I'm not aware of any definition of a pistol caliber carbine necessarily being a semi-auto rifle only so I would say that pistol caliber lever action carbines fit also and are good choices for firearms as they've been around for about 150 years more or less and are very reliable.
i chose to build an ar-9 solely for the gas mileage that you can get from 9mm. in all aspects it is similar to my ar-15, but i can spend a fraction of the cost and have way more fun at the range when shooting 2-250 rounds. it's a great gun for my son to get comfortable with as well. it came in at around $800, but i'm sure you could do one for less if you wanted.
The Ruger PCC is my favorite. Now they even have more models. Would love to get that sweet looking handrail on my PCC9!
My vote is for the CZ Scorpion 9mm. It is fun to shoot and for me in my advanced age has improved my accuracy 1,000% over standard pistol. It has some bad features: cocking handle too small results in skinned fingers. Safeties are too small and dig into hands/ fingers while shooting. Trigger pull is far too heavy at 10.5 pounds. CZ surely knows about these bad features so why don’t they correct them at the time of manufacture and thus avoid the need to buy and install after market replacements. A good gun could be transformed into a great gun.
No Ruger PC Carbine? Affordable, highly adaptable, GREAT shooter and takes both Ruger and Glock magazines plus you can customize to your heart's content. AND it breaks down. Perfect for home protection or as a bug out gun. The Hi-Point and Kel-Tec are great guns because they are very inexpensive but still reliable. I love the design of the Beretta CX4 Storm and IMHO the Rolls Royce of PCCs would be the CZ Scorpion but after much deliberation all these guns I mentioned I went with the Ruger and I am not disappointed!
How does the Freedom Ordnance FX-9 stack up the the carbine in your list?
No mention of the Ruger 9mm semi-auto carbine .... high quality for a low price
.... hmmm
Who is the maker of the AR pistol in the last photo with the coment" How can you ignore something that looks so freaking cool?"
In the sub-gun/PCC category, it's hard to imagine why the SIG MPX isn't near the top of the list ... unless "Cost" was a huge factor in list creation. And if you extend to all sub-guns irrespective of chambering, it's hard to ignore the SIG Rattler. Yes, I'm a "S(B)igot", but the truth is these are stunningly reliable premium sub-guns that over-qualify in both shootability and cool looks. (IMHO)
My Hi Point 4595TS is a pretty cool gun. Never had any problems with it, and eats whatever I feed it. The handguns may indeed deserve the criticism they usually get. But, like you stated in the article, for some reason Hi Point did well with the carbines...
Check out the High Tower Armory MBS-95 Bullpup conversion for the High Point. It really makes a huge difference to an already stupidly reliable platform.
Beyond that, I always chocked up high point as absolute crap... but this has been the most reliable gun i've ever owned. And in 9mm, its accuracy at 50-100 yards is really surprising.
Like I think i'd actually trust my life to this...thing.
Why not a 5.56 bullpup instead?
Needs moar B&T !
How about an article on pistol caliber rifle ballistics. I have a 357 and 44 Henry but can not find anything on ballistics for them with 38s or 44 specials. I was thing about a PC carbine but could it take down a deer at 100 yards in a survival scenario.
You attach a photo of the Ruger Police carbine, but dont write anything about them?
Ruger is making them again in a take down version. I own a Ruger PC4 (40 caliber) and a Marlin Camp 9 carbine which I consider 2 of the best., yet a plastic hi point $200 gun gets recommended?
Please explain that?
Thank you. I wouldn't use that High Point to start a fire with.
Have you shot a High Point 9mm carbine? Ugly - yes. Reliable - absolutely.
Roger that on the Marlin Camp 9. And the Ruger .44 Mag carbine, even though it only held 4 rds, should have been an honorable mention. And, let’s don’t forget the M-1 carbine. It’s being newly manufactured to mil-specs.
The Beretta CX4 Storm is easy to convert for left handed shooters.
And an absolute blast to shoot. Hands down my favorite. Thanks for mentioning it.
I know I'm old but ever heard of a M-1 carbine? Basically a hot 357 Mag.
M1-Carbine, with the right mags, is a great little gun! But .30 Carbine nor the M1-Carbine really fit into the "Pistol-caliber". .30 Carbine is technically a rifle cartridge and finding a pistol chambered in it is very hard to do. The only current production one I know of is the Ruger Blackhawk.
Still, handy little rifle and nice cartridge that doesn't get much credit these days.
I hate to keep being the buzzkill on this site, especially since everything here is well-written, well-researched, and really accessible to the casual shooter/observer, but if we shooters don’t nip these common misconceptions in the bud they’re just going to keep plaguing us and weighing down progress.
1. A PCC legally has to be the same length as the shortest rifle (around 26 inches total length). Unless you shell out the $200 tax stamp for an SBR, your 16” AR will be as long as you PCC.
2. In the majority of states, including Stand Your Ground (SYG) states, engaging any target at 25 yards is hard to prove as defensive, unless of course they are ACTIVELY shooting at you, and at that point a rifle maybe be a shade better for stoping the fight. You’ll see the phrase “a duty to retreat” more than “snipe that fool” in legal docs.
3. No Auto Ordinance? For shame (shakin my head). I’m just playing but I have had the honor of firing a WWII era Thompson and it was butter-smooth.
Other than that, great stuff PewPew. Again, your articles are fantastic. Keep’em coming!
You're wrong about the length requirement. If the gun started its life as a pistol and you don't put an actual stock on it, there is no length requirement. You can attach a pistol brace instead. Disclaimer, not a lawyer, but the common interpretation of the ATF's current position (October 2018) is that you can legally touch the pistol brace to your shoulder as if it were a stock, as long as your intent when you built or bought wasn't just to circumvent the SBR laws. If you get yourself a braced pistol and happen to touch that brace to your shoulder when your hear a bump in the night, I don't think you have to worry about being prosecuted over it.
Also, the Thompson has fallen out of favor for good reason - it's a wildly outdated design. Most obviously, it's *HEAVY*, and it's expensive to make. In full-auto, it's fun but outclassed by modern submachine gun designs. In the semi-auto versions available to regular folks, it's wildly impractical, except for the "neat" factor. Don't buy a Thompson for home defense.
Thoughts on CMMG MkGs GUARD Glock fed magazines and uses Radial Delayed Blowback operating system?
Pallmetto Statt Armory 9mm
Anyone know the name of the green rifle at the bottom?
That's an AR-9 pistol dude.
what do you think of the new Ruger PCC?
It looks awesome and I can't wait to try it out at SHOT show soon.
curious how it compares to the Scorpion and others reviewed here
Oh, I forgot about the Kriss Vector CRB? I am pointing you in the direction of review at least 15 to 25 different 9mm PCC manufacturers so that we have a more comprehensive list of what's out there from $300 to $2500.00
Great article Brandon, I am impressed with your presentation and I like the position you have taken on 9mm PCC, however you have overlooked a large number of new and old 9mm PCC on the market that are all quality made carbines and higher priced carbines, start with Thureon Defense 9mm, ATI-Mil Tech Sport, Nordic Modular 9mm, Dark storm 9mm, Wilson Combat 9mm (which is overpriced) FX-9 PCC ($599) from Classicarms.com channel on U-Tube, Sig 9mm (how did you miss this one?) and finally the new comer the J-68/69 this is a Bullpup 9mm using Glock magazines you need to test and review this one! finally when you do your follow-up on 9mm PCC don't forget to review and recommend scopes and red DOTs everybody is leaving 9mm carbine people out on a limb when it comes to sights? Brandon start with Primary Arms 2.5X with the ACSS reticle, this scope is already calibrated for the 9mm 115 and 124 grain!
Great article Brandon! I own or have shot a few of these, or derivatives thereof. I'm most interested, however, in the last picture you have in the article, which is not one of the five firearms you summarized. It's the OD/FDE one with a SBM4 brace in your "Parting Words..." section. Any idea what AR-like, pistol carbine lower that is?
I love my Beretta CX4 Storm 9 mm. Accurate, dependable, light, powerful enough, and fun. I also consider my Marlin 1894c .357 mag a pistol caliber carbine.
The thing people need to keep in mind is, sure you can buy sweet carbine for $1000-$2500, but if someone breaks into your house and you're in the right to shoot, your gun WILL be confiscated as evidence and there will be no guarantee that you will get it back in a timely fashion or get it back at all. So you might what to factor that into your decision in how much you want to shell out for a carbine.
Very true Joel. We likely won't get the firearm back, even if it is a good shoot. Of course, I'll be more focused on finding a great lawyer for the life altering criminal and/or civil litigation that's sure to ensue!
That said, however, if I'm ever forced into that situation, I want in my hands the most reliable firearm I can purchase, AND with which I can afford to train regularly. We all have budgets, and it certainly doesn't take $1,000+ to procure a reliable firearm.
For 99% of the population, myself included, I'd humbly suggest that any excess budget we get to enjoy is better spent training--on and off the range--for the event we hope we never have to experience, than spent on an overly pretty, galactically "tacticool", "mine was more expensive than yours" firearm with which we never train. If one can afford to train with both a tacticool and reliable home defense firearm...then all the better!
So is it considered an AR? Or is it strictly a pistol that lo0ks like an AR? I have totally ignored this product because I purchased my LWRC Di so this is me being lazy. I am from CA so it is most likely illegal here anyway,
Joseph- another CA owner here... I have a PCC here and it is, indeed, treated as an "assault weapon." Simply put, that means no pistol grip, flash hider, adjustable stock, or front grip. Since all of these have pistol grips you'll need a grip wrap to make it legal.
I got mine from Solar Tactical and have no complaints.
While having a PCC with a grip wrap isn't as cool as the above firearms, the setup still provides an awesomely fun firearm.
I like that you included a picture of a Ruger PC9, but you did not identify it. It is a great match up with the Ruger P-series pistols. It is a great 9mm carbine. They don't make them anymore, but used PC9s can be found on gun auctions sites, just be prepared to pay $800+ to get one.
I think a 10mm carbine would be ideal. Flat shooting and packs a punch way more than any other caliber. More rounds than a .45 and slightly less than 9mm in mags. I believe H&K made sub guns in 10mm at one time. Cannot think of any reason why the 10mm would be a bad choice.
Hi Point recently released a 10mm version of their carbine. Also, Mech-tech makes glock conversion "uppers" for the G20.
Just wanted to say I have a hi-point 40 cal. Carbine and a 9mm and 40mm hand gun love them all never had a problem with any of them being a former police officer I have shot many different types of firearms and I compare it as a cheaper version of a glock loved my glocks but also have been very impressed with hi-point.
Not sure why so little was said about the CZ Scorpion Evo 3 in relation to the other carbines listed. These things are very accurate, quality made, light and tough as nails. I love the HK too, but a ten round magazine seems a bit paltry in a home defense scenario. All things being equal, sometimes more = better.
What carbine is in the last photo?
I bought a Hi-Point 995 TS and it does perform. I've fired different types and different brands of ammo. No FTF or FTE. I've even mixed type and brand in the same magazine with no problems. Nice carbine. Hi-Point pistols...not so much. The only draw back is the 10rd magazine. A 20 rd mag is made, but it extends too far to be really practical.
What about Just Right Carbines? They're great guns build along the lines of an AR-15 platform so many of the AR components can be used in it.. There are a number of calibers available for it and you can get conversion kits to change calibers.
I own both Keltec sub2K and CZ Scorpion. Installed lasers and red dots on both to cover medium and long range scenarios ... super hard to put down at range, too addictive ... and I agree with you that it's perhaps the best home defense tools (even better than tactical shotguns I have, thanks for the great review
I own a Sig MPX, absolute dream to shoot, Folding SIG brace, 30 round, put a red dot on top and a green laser/light combo on under side.
Where is the Kriss Vector CRB?
I have owned a 995 TS for several years and love it. It is fun and effective, particularly with a nice red dot on it.