Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Your AR-15 to 9mm Using a Glock Conversion BlockStep-by-Step Guide to Converting Your AR-15 to 9mm Using a Glock Conversion Block
Converting your AR-15 to a 9mm platform is a practical upgrade that enhances versatility, reduces ammunition costs, and makes for a smoother shooting experience. Whether you’re looking to improve your training setup or create a more compact firearm, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Why Convert an AR-15 to 9mm?
The AR-15 is known for its adaptability, and converting it to a 9mm variant provides several benefits:
- Lower Ammunition Cost: 9mm rounds are significantly cheaper than .223/5.56, allowing for more affordable range sessions.
- Reduced Recoil: A 9mm AR-15 experiences much less recoil, making it easier to control and shoot rapidly.
- Compatibility with Glock Magazines: Many conversion blocks allow the use of Glock magazines, increasing cross-compatibility if you already own a Glock handgun.
Tools and Components Needed
Before starting, gather the following components:
- A 9mm barrel
- A 9mm bolt carrier group (BCG)
- A 9mm magazine adapter or conversion block
- Glock-compatible 9mm magazines
- A 9mm buffer and spring (to accommodate the different recoil characteristics)
Step-by-Step Conversion Process
1. Disassemble Your AR-15
Begin by clearing your firearm and ensuring it’s unloaded. Separate the upper and lower receivers by removing the takedown pins.
2. Install the 9mm Barrel
Remove the existing barrel from your AR-15’s upper receiver and replace it with the 9mm barrel. Secure it using the appropriate barrel nut and torque specifications.
3. Swap the Bolt Carrier Group
Remove the standard AR-15 BCG and replace it with a 9mm-specific BCG. Ensure proper alignment and fit within the upper receiver.
4. Insert the 9mm Conversion Block
This is where the Glock Compatible 9mm Conversion Block (https://sylvanarms.com/) comes into play. Insert it into the magazine well of your AR-15’s lower receiver. This component allows you to use Glock magazines in your newly converted 9mm rifle.
5. Adjust the Buffer System
A standard AR-15 buffer is not designed for the blowback operation of a 9mm cartridge. Install a 9mm-specific buffer and spring to optimize cycling and reliability.
6. Reassemble and Test
Reconnect the upper and lower receivers, ensuring all components fit securely. Function test the firearm by manually cycling rounds through the chamber before heading to the range.
7. Consider Additional Enhancements
For added flexibility, a folding stock adapter can enhance portability, making storage and transport more convenient, especially for compact builds.
Final Thoughts
Converting your AR-15 to 9mm is a cost-effective and practical modification that maximizes your rifle’s utility. Whether for training, home defense, or fun at the range, this setup provides a reliable and affordable shooting experience.