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AR Pistols

Compact and versatile, AR Pistols at Gunner HQ bring the flexibility of the AR platform into a smaller frame. These firearms are perfect for tactical training, home defense, and range sessions. As part of our Handguns collection, AR pistols stand alongside AK Pistols, Revolvers, and Semi Auto Handguns. To keep your firearm supplied, browse AR Magazines and stock up on Handgun Ammunition. For added accuracy, pair your pistol with Laser Sights or Gun Scopes. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced shooter, AR pistols provide impressive firepower in a compact size. Gunner HQ in Sheffield, AL makes it easy to find AR pistols and the gear to match. Shop online today.

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AR Pistol Firepower and Versatility

At Gunner HQ, located in Sheffield, Alabama, we offer a wide selection of AR Pistols designed to bring the proven flexibility of the AR platform into a compact, easy-to-handle frame. Ideal for home defense, tactical training, and range use, AR pistols combine the accuracy of a rifle system with the portability of a handgun classification. As part of our Handguns collection, they stand alongside AK Pistols, Revolvers, and Semi Auto Handguns. Keep your firearm running with AR Magazines and reliable Handgun Ammunition. For accuracy upgrades, pair your pistol with Laser Sights or Gun Scopes.

What Are AR Pistols?

AR pistols are firearms built on the AR-15 platform but classified as handguns. They feature shorter barrels, typically under 12 inches, and no traditional rifle stock. Instead, they often include buffer tubes or pistol braces for stability. This design allows shooters to enjoy the performance of an AR system in a smaller, more maneuverable package.

Key Components of AR Pistols

AR pistols share many parts with AR rifles, with modifications to suit their compact design:

  • Receiver: Houses the fire control group and connects upper and lower assemblies. 
  • Barrel: Shortened for maneuverability, usually between 7 and 12 inches. 
  • Gas System: Direct impingement or piston-driven to cycle the action. 
  • Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Ensures reliable feeding and extraction. 
  • Handguard: Provides mounting space for accessories. 
  • Pistol Brace or Buffer Tube: Used in place of a rifle stock for stability. 
  • Magazine: Detachable, commonly 20 or 30 rounds depending on model. 

Variations of AR Pistols

AR pistols come in multiple configurations to suit different needs:

  • Standard AR Pistols: Compact 5.56 NATO builds designed for defense and training. 
  • .300 Blackout AR Pistols: Offer both supersonic and subsonic loads, ideal for suppressed shooting. 
  • 9mm AR Pistols: Affordable to shoot, with reduced recoil for training or personal defense. 
  • 7.62x39mm AR Pistols: Provide compatibility with AK-style firepower in an AR format. 
  • Enhanced Models: Feature M-LOK rails, threaded barrels, or optics-ready receivers.

AR Pistols vs Other Firearms

AR pistols bridge the gap between handguns and rifles. Compared to traditional AR rifles, they are easier to maneuver in confined spaces but sacrifice some velocity due to shorter barrels. Against AK pistols, AR pistols typically offer greater accuracy and accessory customization. Compared to semi-auto handguns, they deliver higher capacity and more power.

Common Calibers for AR Pistols

.223 Remington / 5.56 NATO

The most common chambering for AR pistols, known for accuracy, availability, and strong defensive use.

.223 Wylde

A hybrid chamber that safely fires both .223 Rem and 5.56 NATO with precision.

.300 AAC Blackout / 300 BLK

Offers excellent versatility, with subsonic loads for suppression and supersonic rounds for hunting or defense.

7.62x39mm

Delivers AK-level power in an AR pistol platform, combining strong impact with reliable performance.

9mm

Affordable and easy to shoot, ideal for training, home defense, and high-volume range use.

5.7x28mm

A lightweight, flat-shooting caliber with higher velocity and reduced recoil, increasingly popular in compact AR pistols.

.350 Legend

Designed for hunters in states that require straight-wall cartridges, offering strong performance in an AR pistol format.

Safe Storage and Handling of AR Pistols

Because of their compact yet powerful design, AR pistols should be stored responsibly. At Gunner HQ, we recommend securing them in a locked safe or cabinet. Ammunition should be stored separately in a cool, dry location. Follow all local regulations for transport and concealed carry.

Trusted AR Pistol Brands

At Gunner HQ, we stock AR pistols from top manufacturers including CMMG, Maxim Defense Industries, LWRC, TROY Industries, and Sig Sauer. CMMG is known for pistol-caliber AR builds like 9mm and 5.7x28mm. Maxim Defense offers compact, high-performance pistols in .300 BLK and 5.56 NATO. LWRC and TROY deliver rugged tactical models, while Sig Sauer produces some of the most popular AR pistols on the market today.

AR Pistols for Defense, Training, and Range Use

Home Defense

Chambered in 5.56 NATO or 9mm, AR pistols offer maneuverability indoors with strong defensive capability.

Tactical Training

AR pistols are widely used in tactical drills, providing shooters with a compact alternative to full-length rifles.

Recreational Shooting and Competition

With options in .300 Blackout or 9mm, AR pistols are popular for range sessions and competition formats where agility and speed matter.

Tips for Choosing the Right AR Pistol

Start with caliber selection. For defense, 5.56 NATO and 9mm are popular. For versatility, .300 Blackout is a strong option. Consider features such as rail systems for optics, brace compatibility, and barrel length. At Gunner HQ, we recommend choosing based on both purpose and comfort.

Why Buy AR Pistols at Gunner HQ

At Gunner HQ in Sheffield, Alabama, our AR pistol collection provides shooters with compact firepower and unmatched versatility. Whether you’re looking for a defensive firearm, a training platform, or a range-ready build, our selection covers trusted brands and configurations. Shop AR pistols online today at Gunner HQ and experience the balance of power and portability.

AR Pistols FAQs

What caliber is best for an AR pistol?

At Gunner HQ, we recommend 5.56 NATO or .223 Wylde for general use, since they offer accuracy, affordability, and wide availability. For defense and suppression, .300 Blackout is a strong option, while 9mm and 5.7x28mm are excellent for affordable training and compact defensive setups.

How far can you accurately shoot an AR pistol?

With a 5.56 NATO or .223 Wylde chambering, AR pistols can maintain accuracy out to about 200–300 yards depending on barrel length and optics. Calibers like .300 BLK or 7.62x39mm are best for shorter ranges, while 9mm AR pistols are most effective within 100 yards.

Do AR pistols use standard AR magazines?

Yes, AR pistols chambered in 5.56 NATO, .223 Wylde, or .300 BLK use standard AR-15 magazines. At Gunner HQ, we stock AR Magazines designed for reliable feeding. Pistol-caliber ARs in 9mm or 5.7x28mm may require proprietary magazines depending on the manufacturer.

Are AR pistols reliable for home defense?

Absolutely. Compact size, maneuverability, and strong caliber options make AR pistols highly effective for defense. At Gunner HQ, we suggest pairing your pistol with a red dot sight for faster target acquisition and selecting defensive ammunition such as hollow points or soft points in the right caliber.

What brands make the best AR pistols?

At Gunner HQ, we carry CMMG, Maxim Defense, LWRC, TROY Industries, and Sig Sauer, all respected for quality and reliability. CMMG is popular for pistol-caliber ARs like 9mm and 5.7x28mm, while Maxim Defense and LWRC focus on high-performance 5.56 and .300 BLK builds.