Spikes AR9 Build - Parts List + First Minor Issue!

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Thanks For Watching!!!

[@azbrnandraised9514]

I work for a local gun shop and we did some heavy research on the AR9 platform. We built this exact lower and ran it with a 308 carbine buffer spring with the spikes AR9 buffer. Also ran it with a standard AR15 carbine buffer spring as well. Both worked fine. The recoil impulse felt much smoother with the 308 buffer spring. We ran into some issues with it not locking back consistently on the last round. The only thing that we found that helped was making sure you were using a new Glock magazine. It catches easier for some reason vs a used more worn Glock mag. Also found that online several others have had the same issue. Hope this helps!

[@Eddie87Grant]

I hear that the 5th gen mags work the best.

[@nemisous83]

Not sure if you ever fixed your issue, but the ideal buffer and spring combo is a really heavy buffer 8-10 oz's and a low power spring. What I did was take a standard carbine spring and compress it in a vice for a week. Also a heavier hammer spring will help slow down your bolt so you aren't beating your rifle to death.

[@Randy_84]

I had that issue too. I changed my upper and got a true 9mm upper. Yours is still a traditional AR15. You can tell by your ejection you port. That fixed it for me

[@samuelcabe3372]

I was wondering if anyone was going to say this because this was my first assumption.

[@pshhyeahh]

I bought my AR9 from 22mods4all at a gun show. It had the KAK Shockwave Blade buffer kit with the standard AR15 buffer. I did not know much about AR9s at the time. The plastic part of their buffer was threaded onto the metal portion. After about 100 rounds, that plastic part of the buffer stripped loose. But using the AR15 buffer on the 9mm build did not damage anything else. Now I use the Shockwave Blade buffer tube and buffer spring with KVP 7.5oz buffer (which the plastic part is pinned rather than threaded). So far so good. I have also tried using a 308 spring, but it took maximum effort to lock the bolt back.

[@ffield12]

I agree ... trim the rubber or whatever it is made of off the “tip” of the buffer ... saw that on another KZbin video .... I would copy and paste the link, but forget which one of many I watch from time to time. Good Luck 👍

[@scottkindley]

I have 2 spike’s 9mm builds. I found using the spike’s 9mm buffer with a spike’s 308 buffer spring works for reliable LRBHO. It also works that way using the CMMG 9mm bcg. Enjoy.

[@Unplugged704]

Thanks for the info. In a later video OP found a fix where he shaved down the buffer (Spikes ST-9X). maybe an 1/8". Which buffer did you use and did you have to do that also? I'm building Spike's 9mm also... I prefer not to have fixes/workarounds.

[@SkinnySkinch]

you have any issue with ProMags not locking in and being extremely tight fit? steel duramags work perfect. only two I've tried

[@meanevilconservative]

I just finished a build using a Spikes Lower and their new design Upper with a Ballistic Advantage 11" barrel. I've got the Spikes BCQ as well. With the SBPDW Brace, I'm really enjoying this pistol. The one complaint was the bolt not holding back after the last round being fired. It was suggested that I try Gen5 Glock mags, since the follower is slightly taller. Simple fix, but it worked.

[@christopherflesner8095]

Great video but I know nothing about 9mm ARs. I haven't looked back at your earlier videos but I think it would be neat if you did another build series where you discuss what it is you look for in various parts when you build ARs. Like hammer forged barrels, fluted barrels, polymer vs aluminum parts, etc. Again, I haven't had a chance to look back at your previous videos yet so you may have done this but thought it would be interesting. Plus it's always nice to have updated assembly videos with new parts constantly being put out.

[@NolanOutdoors]

I don’t think I’ve done a video about all of that so I can definitely do that. I appreciate be suggestion! 👍🏼

[@toma382]

I know I'm late to the party, but I built one with the same Spikes spacer at the end of my spring and had the same problem. I backed my buffer tube off 1 rotation, which gave me enough clearance for it to lock back. If you don't have it solved already, I hope this helps.

[@mattwilsey7520]

I use a standard spring, heavy buffer and 4 quarters as a spacer. Works perfect

[@ARP_king5.56]

So you put 4 quaters and than your spring ?

[@chaoticcaninejb]

That extra buffer peice is made oversized so you can tune it by sanding it down since so many tubes are not truly spec'd identicam. Try a regular carbine spring as well

[@NolanOutdoors]

I was unaware of that but I may try sanding it down just a tad to see if bet helps. I appreciate the help!

[@victorramosjr2239]

​@@NolanOutdoorsMy 7.5 oz buffer from Macon Armory fixed my cycling issues. But I didn't have to cut anything. I did do the quarters thing and space the buffer about an eighth or so back from the bolt catch when pulled to the rear. I have the Spike's Tactical ST9G & it has issues of the magazine sitting too low in the mag well & not feeding my hollowpoints, even after Rudy enhanced the feedcone on my Faxon barrel. Rudy is working on manufacturing the fix for this issue with a new designed bolt catch. I emailed John from Spike's Tactical & he said he has never heard of that issue with the ST9G. Does your AR9 chamber hollowpoints with no issue?

[@huorfam]

JP Captured Spring 9mm was my end result from your issue. Ive ran 1500 rounds no issues. I previously had KVP 7.5oz buffer but I learned the hard way buy once cry once lol. Looks good!

[@josephstewart7351]

I used 7 quarters in the buffer tube before I put in the carbine spring and heavy pistol buffer. No failures to lock back at all.

[@speararsenal]

Great looking pistol, try the jp enterprises' captured silent buffer spring. Make sure you buy the extra set of springs that will allow you to custom the buffer. The buffer comes with a polymer extension that you can cut to the size you need.

[@gamingwithgeremy8141]

file down the lil rubber piece on the back side of the buffer a lil at a time until it catches bro and once it catches file the edges to get the same semi pointed shape that the back of the buffer originally had

[@danielpuzon21]

Back your buffer tube out one turn. That should give you the extra space. Just make sure your pin is still covered.

[@tonyzito9888]

this

[@taterprintsgats]

Just finished an AR9 build and definitely gonna try this!

[@joejr9653]

My ar9 build is with CMMG dedicated lower. I use the KAK shockwave, the KAK 9mm ar15 buffer, KAW Valley Precision .308/pistol extra power carbine buffer spring, New Frontier Armory 9mm buffer spacer, CMMG 9mm enhanced BCG. I can lock my bolt back with no problem. It also has last round hold open that works perfectly. (Mine is colt magazines.) My build also looks a lot like yours. I have 8.5" barrel with Midwest Industries 9.25" handguard. I run a longer KAK flash can, so mine sticks out a bit further. (Watch your fingers yours is really short) I use a Trijicon MRO (no back up sights). It shoots like a dream, and the MRO makes hitting targets very fast and easy. I hope this helps.

[@18wheeler77]

My buddy used a 308 spring and a 5.56 buffer with about a Buck 50 of quarters at the rear. He said it’s flawless. You do have to install a harder bolt catch.

[@brianparker3901]

I believe you can get different size plastic ends for your buffer which would change the size of the buffer to allow for hold open.

[@scottf.3808]

What a cool build as love the 9mm plinking platform...Good stuff...

[@echosreloadingchamber7306]

I've been building AR-15 rifles for quite a while but I'm not an expert on 9mm carbines. I use a Rock River 9mm buffer and buffer spring and I'm getting last round hold open every time.

[@ChelseaLynnS]

I dropped a few quarters down the buffer tube, then put the spring back in, Works perfect

[@Avissarin]

I'm SUPER late, but for what its worth, if its barely to short, some people were shaving some of the rubber off the tip of the buffer. Perhaps another thing you can do is file/cut some of the other side of your buffer away. Guess it's slightly better than stacking quarters in your buffertube? although kinda the same end goal.

[@CeliaShadden]

7 oz. Buffer with mil spec spring. And the quarters do work!

[@mblake0420]

Use quarters or washers for spacers

[@rustybordelon1]

Yes, I’m a quarter stacker. Learned it from an old Colt employee Good luck

[@ICECOLDOUTDOORS]

Pretty nice looking setup, I know nothing about 9mm ARs, but you'll get it working right.

[@the-savr]

Buy a Foxtrot Mike upper and lower. Problem solved. 👍

[@darrellclark9596]

Tryng to build one of these for the first time. This was informative but do you recomend differant makers and could you help me with a compatable list please? I just asked the tech bench at the company im sourcing through via email but havnt heard back from them yet.

[@BatmanRydin]

Idk if you ever figured out the issue with your bolt catch. (A little behind the times finding this video) I did have the same issue with my first AR build. As it turned out, while tightening down the buffer tube, I was under the impression that the retainer for the tube had to be fully seated in the slot. It started to stovepipe on me because the bcg travel wasn't long enough. After racking my brain for a couple days, I backed the buffer tube off a full turn and never had another issue with the stovepipes or the bcg locking back. I'm sure after 2 years you've either figured it out or no longer have the weapon but maybe this suggestion will help you or someone in the future with the same issue.

[@KSGunGuy01]

That’s looking awesome brother!

[@live4wild968]

I am using the Kaw Valley Precision 7.5 oz Pistol Buffer and 7-4 SS Pistol Caliber Carbine Extra Power Spring in my 9mm carbine.

[@arsenal_616]

I only did the tiniest bit of research a few weeks ago on 9mm AR parts and from what I saw, one of the things that gets the bolt to lock open with Glock mags is a specialized upper receiver. That isn't much help because I really don't remember what was different about the uppers, but it might be worth looking into.

[@homefront3162]

Arsenal 616 NFA

[@averagejoe3446]

your spacer is to thick use regular carbine spring and the spacer slowly sand down the base till you get the right spaceing. 9mm buffer is slightly longer so it takes up space as well.

[@MatteoSixSeventyFour]

Fender Washers are a better way to go over quarters. And they can be found at any hardware store. That or sand down the existing spacer till you hit the right fitment. BTW nice build brother. Been playing with the idea of an AR9 build. I've always thought the SI cookie cutter would be a nice look on a build like that.

[@NolanOutdoors]

Thanks Brother! I never thought about fender washers, I bet those would be a little better than quarters. I may try sanding on it to see it it will fit.

[@justinmen8060]

old vid and thread but here's my experience, ... i recently built an Aero EPC 9 and the LRBHO would work. I tried to upgrade my milspec bolt catch with a "dedicated" 9mm bolt catch then I lost the LRBHO feature as it would NOT lock back with the upgraded bolt catch. For some reason, mine would work with the mil spec bolt catch from CMC LPK so I put that one back in and have no issues ever with 250 rds so far...

[@codyjenn8785]

That is a sweet AR9 I'm going to build an AR9 here soon for SDI

[@bensiniff2868]

Anytime it doesn't hold back its the buffer is to long or tube is to short. And some require you to take the weight out of back of 9mm bcg.

[@equinsuocha8905]

I had the same issue with an AR pistol in 556. The guy I got it from built it and it the bolt never caught on the catch. I noticed that he screwed the buffer tube in one rotation too far, so I backed it off one full turn, this allowed the bolt to be caught.

[@menzelnation]

Great video. What is the combined weight of your buffer and BCG? Or what did you settle on for your buffer, spring, and BCG at this point? I stay under 21 oz total for BCG and buffer... seems to be OK. I'm running a KAK blade/assembly, KAK buffer 5.4 oz, and 308 spring. BCG is from AIM 14.9 oz. Faxon 8.5 nitride barrel. Spike's slick side upper and Spike's 9mm Glock lower LRBHO.

[@Bobshell-tw8xy]

Mine I built is an all Aero precision and I used a 308 spring with aero 7.5 oz buffer and my LRBHO works every time. Using a Glock mag. And the bolt catch works also if u choose to use it. Before last shot. Nice build. I’d use a SB3 brace instead of shockwave but that’s my opinion only. Now I’m building a 45acp from New Frontier

[@chrispoole8630]

Building ar9 right now with aero upper lower and guard, not sure on barrel yet. Thanks on the spring/buffer combo.

[@Bobshell-tw8xy]

@@chrispoole8630 Faxon bcg & barrel. Way less jamming issues vs ballistic advantage but BA make fantastic stuff. I think feed ramp is better on Faxon.

[@user-lk7cv2fk5w]

Use T3 Buffer with carbine spring. That’s from spikes tech support I haven’t had any issues

[@rich9792]

Ha e you looked at a different BCG? I use Faxon's 9mm BCG. When I had the Kak device I used a 9mm buffer and heavy weight spring. It held open. I switched to maxims brace with Silent Capture spring also works. The other difference is I have a QC10 Colt lower.

[@jleron22]

Beautiful gun, I will be doing my first build soon & it turned out very well

[@BigJohnsonGG]

That looks awesome Brother! Carry On

[@jiveturkey8546]

A piece of delrin rod would work also and would be cheaper than buying parts with spiders printed on them... or quarters lol

[@rb67mustang]

You said it!!! I've seen lots of guys use use quarters and its a very cheap fix. I'll bet a trip to the hardware store to find a couple of washers about the size of quarters would be even cheaper.

[@josephdelally1708]

You have to cut a little bit of the rubber off the buffer

[@RadThings]

Nice build. Really like that setup. May have to build one myself.

[@chaoticcaninejb]

You can run standard 556 buffer and Spikes 10.6 buffer and will run all ammo and lock back too

[@frankhellman6879]

4:54 "May I help you with something...Buddy?" Nope Nope Nope Nope

[@hmbtv319]

I am intetested to build that kind of 9mm rifle for my petsonal use in competition. Where can I buy the complete spareparts and accessories of that spike design/model. Please help me and guide me on how to acquire the abovementioned spareparts. Thank you.

[@joejeans7913]

I milled a spacer sort of like quarters do fir a little better. worked for me.

[@MrEtherShot]

I laughed every time he said Kack

[@inebriatedpharmd911]

I had this same issue. I was able to develop a Fix. Wasn’t as straight forward and was surprised Spikes would make something like this that so consistently didn’t work as their stuff is generally very good. Find me and Message me at Syndicate Shooting Sports on FB. I’ll go over what I did.

[@joemartin6776]

Sweet gun!! Have you asked Spike's or a AR15 armorer? I just ordered a 9mm at pistol. I have no idea so I am unable to help.

[@w1jumpmaster]

You could probably hand file 1/16 of an inch off the buffer or cut the spring until it locks back.

[@travis50777]

hey i’m building an AR and love the setup you have. which midwest industries handguard is that. a 9” which model. which model. thanks

[@fastmattmattmatt]

Take that spacer down a bit until it’s just right. Should be able to tune it within 5-10 min.

[@redskinfaithful]

I’m looking at one of these. What’s a fair price for Spikes Tactical Gen II Upper/Lower 9mm Luger Billet Receiver Set ?

[@tosc6004]

What weight buffer are you using? I'm doing a 9mm pistol build right now and read where you need a 7-7.5oz buffer.

[@markallen1413]

Where have you been dude, I miss watching 👍👍👍👍👍

[@lyricalman20]

Shave the end of the buffer simple fix

[@smm2k13]

I loves me some spikes tactical!

[@frankhellman6879]

A Dremel tool and epoxy can fix anything. lol Let us know how you end up dealing with that little annoyance. Thx. Nolan.

[@josephdelally1708]

Because what it is doing because the buffer is longer then your stander .556 that rubber hits the back up the buffer tube take little bit by little bit till it enough to hold open

[@elijahmace4567]

I don't really think the bolt not locking back is an issue. this is IMO but there are pistols that also have this "feature". the way I see it, it's another safety feature. but that's just me. small things like that don't really bother me

[@fueledbydanny]

I believe I read somewhere in the comments that you're about $800 deep in this gun and I'm trying to build something similar and looking at $1,200... oh man where did you find such deals?

[@patrickgraham3110]

I'm having a problem with uppers on my spikes 9mm lower I was gunna use a foxtrot mike. I see you used all spikes tactical gear and it fits.

[@superbikedad]

Looks great !

[@birdsallsean]

yea for that problem I had the same problem. dedicated bolt carrier for 9mm. my gun smith told me no not gonna work. that uppers not made for a 9mm. what he did was use carrier but put a 9mm bolt assembly and poof it worker perfect. even with it suppressed.

[@birdsallsean]

even with my ar15 with the mag block same problem by the way

[@Unplugged704]

Question - why did you choose the 556 upper vs the 9mm upper, also available by Spikes?

[@ilovemyBMXbike]

My next build is going to be very close to this one. How much are you into the upper and lower

[@jameshinzman127]

Are you using gen 4 or newer magazines? That could be the cause.

[@keithgregory7937]

Looks nice bro!

[@norbertocastillo9939]

I had an issue with the trigger, every shoot I have to pushed forward for the next shoot .

[@gamingwithgeremy8141]

and dont do anything else no mixing or matching of parts just file until it locks back the way u want it to thats what i did on my brothers when i helped him build his 9mm ar and it supposedly wasnt supposed to lock back but i seen exactly as u did the problem that it was a hair off and it works flawlesly even on simulated full auto bump fire

[@crowenxben]

I have matrix arms dedicated lower, kaw valley 9mm bolt w/308 spring. Holds bolt as it should.

[@InSightFreedom]

I'm going to guess buffer on the no lock back.

[@bigguy8749]

Taccomm3 3 stage adjustable. Come with springs $96

[@jonwagner2150]

The 8.3in barrel is that measured from bolt face or from threads to end

[@Nidhoggr333]

Weaker spring with spacer and 10 oz buffer. Boom

[@FreedomInc]

Or,just sand 1/16 iff of the bumper of the buffer

[@peterlyas2215]

Cut 1/8 of an inch from the tip of the buffer I just watch a KZbin video and the guy was able to get it to lock back just a suggestion but I have never tried it myself

[@RadThings]

Why did you use a standard AR15 upper instead of a 9mm upper?

[@chancef3199]

I know you said this some where but for the life of me I can not find it. I am looking for a pack gun to take camping can you tell me the over all length of you build if you get a chance

[@beauxbrasseur]

could you type out a parts list on here? Thanks!

[@user-kh3gq9qj3v]

Cmc triggers won’t work with in spikes pistols either they say they do but they don’t FYI before u go get a expensive trigger and find out like I did they don’t work get a true dedicated 9 mm trigger or a mil spec regular trigger I had in my builds they work great. Ty for u info

[@Marty48034]

Looks so sweet. Great proportions. Did you get it to run like you want?

[@Marty48034]

Found the updates! Thanks.

[@g1320]

Very cool rifle

[@realdeal11382]

You said this has a Spikes 8.3" 9mm barrel.....I'm only seeing a 8.7" 9mm barrel on Spikes website.....Can you explain? I'm in the process of looking into the parts I want for a build, Thanks!!

[@NolanOutdoors]

If you google “Spikes 8.3” 9mm Barrel” they should pop up. I just checked and they are in stock at PrimaryArms.com

[@realdeal11382]

Awesome! Thank you!!

[@fueledbydanny]

aaaaaand now it's out of stock. fuck.

[@5.7Hemi4x4]

Did I miss the part list? I'm looking for the parts list. 🧑‍🦯

[@auggie4023]

Bolt hold open is supported by your upper...not your lower You need to check and see if your upper supports it

[@NolanOutdoors]

The bolt hold open is built into the lower on this one, not the upper.

[@RideForLifeCR250R]

I'm gonna wager a bet and say you probably have the buffer tube turned in one thread to many if not adequate length to accommodate the oal of the BCG when in fully rearward position and manually engaging BHO

[@mlmperez1114]

Sweet build!!

[@JenniferinIllinois]

My 9mm AR is using a Colt lower so there are no issues with LRBHO. I know the Glock lowers can have issues. Not much help, I know. Hope you get an answer.

[@NolanOutdoors]

I think I got it all worked out. Range video someone soon 👍🏼

[@JenniferinIllinois]

Cool.

[@victorramosjr2239]

Will your AR9 chamber hollowpoints?

[@GhostTactical06]

Is the trigger just a regular mil spec ar15 trigger?

[@dflowski3427]

Simple your running a non bolt hold open upper. Get one with out a forward assist or dust cover 9mm specific.

[@Civiliansoldier762]

Dflowski 34 ??? There’s no such thing as a non bho upper. ...

[@JamesSmith-or7eg]

Did you use the standard or micro KAK can

[@yrocnaeb]

I had the same issue and I cut the rubber piece on the back of the buffer down a hair

[@jlee5232]

Is that the micro "slim line" flash can?

[@luxury65]

Did you got to fix the problem?

[@MannyGunzz]

I'm using a true 9mm upper with heavy spring and a 7oz. 9mm buffer