Thinking About a 4.5 Inch AR Pistol Upper? Here’s What to Know

Those who are into the ARP craze are always looking for ways to make their builds smaller, lighter, more compact, and easier handling. 

One of the most straightforward ways to do this is to start with a micro ARP upper in the first place, and  MCS Gearup’s 4.5 inch AR pistol uppers are some of the shortest in the game. 

But as with all things, there are benefits and tradeoffs to these short upper receivers. Here’s what to know.

The Good

The main advantage of starting your build with a 4.5 inch AR pistol upper is that you’ll be starting with an upper that’s more compact than 95% of the alternatives out there. 

Therefore, you’ll be making it easier on yourself down the road to keep the build compact. And, with a shorter upper, it’ll be easier for you to add a muzzle device like a brake or a can without stretching things out too far. 

That extra half inch when compared to a 5 inch upper won’t make a massive difference in terms of weight, profile or footprint, but at the same time, every little bit counts, and even if by a little, a micro ARP with a 4.5 inch upper will still be a little easier to conceal than one with a longer upper and barrel. 

The same goes here as it does for other micro ARP builds. In some cases, you’ll get the advantage of full-rifle firepower (such as 5.56 or .223) in a much more compact package, though at the same time there are pistol caliber alternatives available. 

Concealment and easier handling in tighter quarters are also advantages of building with a micro ARP upper such as a 4.5 inch upper. They will handle better in confined spaces, which can give them an advantage with respect to some defensive applications.

In addition, there are things you can do to make the build even smaller, if that is your goal. One of the best of these is starting with a bufferless build in the first place. If that is not an option it is recommended to use a short buffer system to keep the whole thing compact. 

The other is to skip the muzzle device. Most ARP uppers come with threaded barrels with flash hiders pre-installed. Remove this and install a thread protector. You will shave off both weight and length from the build. 

The Not So Good 

Now let’s take a look at some of the shortcomings of micro ARP builds, since they are not all positive. 

One of the biggest shortcomings of micro ARP builds has to do with handling. While they are compact and therefore theoretically ideal for cramped quarters, in practice some shooters find them cumbersome, or don’t appreciate the extra recoil generated from the lighter build. 

That is another thing in its own right. Because these platforms are so small and compact, they generate a lot more recoil than their larger cousins. That is something of which you’ll need to be aware. 

Lastly, because they are so compact, they often don’t offer the same room for attachment and accessorization that larger rifles offer. 

But if you can hang with some of these minor shortcomings, then a true micro ARP with a 4.5 inch AR pistol upper might just be ideal for you. Now you just need to know where to get one to start your build.

Where to Get a 4.5 Inch AR Pistol Upper and Parts

Looking for a place where you can get a micro ARP upper and parts? Get your short uppers and buffer systems, along with lower parts, online at MCS Gearup, and get in touch with them at Sales@MCSGearup.com if you have any questions. 

For more information about ar pistol brace and Lower Parts Kit GLOCK 17 Please visit : MCS Gearup

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