Best Barrel Length for 9mm PCC
Posted by refactortactical.com on Mar 9th 2023
Originally posted here.
Pistol Caliber Carbines, or PCCs, are firearms that are chambered in a pistol caliber, typically 9mm.
They are popular among gun enthusiasts and shooters because they offer many advantages over other types of firearms. One of the main benefits of PCCs is their versatility, as they generally use the same ammunition and magazines as a Glock handgun chambered in 9mm.
FAXON BANTAM 16 INCH 9MM PCC
Prices accurate at time of writing
The barrel length of a PCC plays a critical role in its overall performance. The length of the barrel affects the velocity of the bullet, the accuracy of the shots, the recoil management, and the maneuverability of the firearm.
In general, longer barrels tend to increase the velocity of the bullet and improve accuracy, while shorter barrels make the firearm more maneuverable and easier to handle.
Choosing the right barrel length for a 9mm PCC is important for getting the performance you want and making the most of the gun’s capabilities.
In the following sections, we will discuss the various factors to consider when choosing the best barrel length for your 9mm PCC and provide recommendations based on different use cases.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Barrel Length for 9mm PCC
When choosing the best barrel length for your 9mm PCC, there are several factors to consider.
In this section, we will discuss the three main factors to consider when choosing a barrel length: velocity and accuracy, recoil management, and maneuverability.
Velocity and Accuracy
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the barrel length for your 9mm PCC is how it will affect the velocity and accuracy of the bullet.
Generally, longer barrels result in increased bullet velocity, which can lead to greater accuracy and range.
FAXON BANTAM 16" COMPLETE 9MM UPPER RECEIVER
Prices accurate at time of writing
However, there is a point of diminishing returns where the benefits of increased velocity plateau, and longer barrels begin to negatively impact accuracy.
Therefore, it’s essential to find a barrel length that strikes the right balance between velocity and accuracy for your intended use.
Recoil Management
Another factor to consider is how the length of the barrel affects recoil management.
Due to the added weight and longer sight radius, longer barrels tend to make recoil feel less, while shorter barrels can make the gun harder to control.
However, recoil management is not just about barrel length.
Other factors, such as the weight and design of the firearm, also play a role in managing recoil.
Maneuverability
The intended use of your 9mm PCC should also play a role in determining the optimal barrel length.
For example, if you plan to use the firearm for home defense, a shorter barrel may be more suitable as it will allow for easier maneuverability in tight spaces.
FAXON BANTAM 10.5" COMPLETE 9MM UPPER RECEIVER
Prices accurate at time of writing
In contrast, if you plan to use the firearm for recreational shooting or competition, a longer barrel may be preferred for improved accuracy and range.
Overall, it’s essential to consider all of these factors when choosing the best barrel length for your 9mm PCC. The right barrel length will depend on your intended use of the firearm and your personal preferences.
Ideal Barrel Length for 9mm PCC
When choosing the right barrel length for your 9mm PCC, you need to think about how you plan to use the gun.
In this section, we will compare some common barrel lengths for 9mm PCCs and analyze the optimal barrel length for different scenarios.
FAXON DUTY SERIES 10.5", LIGHT TAPERED, 9MM SAAMI
Prices accurate at time of writing
Comparison of common barrel lengths
- 10.5": This is the shortest barrel length commonly used in 9mm PCCs. It’s ideal for close-range engagements and maneuverability in tight spaces. However, it may negatively impact accuracy and velocity, and the shorter sight radius can make aiming more challenging.
- 16": This is the most popular barrel length for 9mm PCCs, as it provides a balance between velocity, accuracy, and maneuverability. It’s suitable for a wide range of applications, from home defense to competition shooting.
- 18": This is the longest barrel length commonly used in 9mm PCCs. It provides the highest velocity and improved accuracy, making it ideal for long-range shooting and hunting. However, the longer barrel can make the firearm less maneuverable and may increase felt recoil.
Optimal barrel length for different scenarios
- Home Defense: For home defense, a 10.5" barrel may be the most suitable, as it provides the maneuverability needed in close-quarters engagements. However, a 16" barrel may also be suitable if you prefer a longer sight radius and better accuracy.
- Competition & Recreational Shooting: For competition and recreational shooting, a 16" barrel is often the go-to choice, as it provides a balance between velocity, accuracy, and maneuverability. However, some competitions may have restrictions on barrel length, so it’s essential to check the rules before making a purchase.
- Hunting: For hunting, an 18" barrel may be the most suitable, as it provides the highest velocity and improved accuracy for long-range shots. However, the longer barrel may make the firearm less maneuverable, so it’s essential to consider the terrain and hunting conditions before making a purchase.
Overall, the ideal barrel length for your 9mm PCC will depend on your intended use of the firearm.
9mm PCC Barrel Velocity By Barrel Length Chart
Faxon 9mm PCC Barrel Options
We are quite familiar with Faxon barrels and have been thoroughly impressed with every one we’ve put to the test, whether it be their AR-15 models or their Glock offerings.
One advantage of 9mm barrels is that they can be quite effective even with a shorter length.
Faxon produces a range of 9mm AR-15 barrels with various lengths, from the standard 16-inch rifle lengths down to as short as 4.5 inches.
FAXON PATENTED 16", LIGHT TAPERED, 9MM SAAMI
Prices accurate at time of writing
These barrels feature 1/2×28 thread pitches to accommodate standard muzzle devices and are made from robust 4150 GBQ steel with a QPQ black nitride coating both inside and out, making for a highly durable barrel.
The barrels boast a standard 1-10 inch twist rate, which ensures reliable accuracy with any weight of 9mm projectiles, and their feed ramps work well with both Glock and Colt magazines.
Conclusion
When choosing the best 9mm PCC for your needs, barrel length is one of the most important things to think about.
The barrel length affects the velocity, accuracy, and recoil management of the firearm, as well as its maneuverability in different scenarios.
It’s important to find a barrel length that strikes the right balance between these factors for your intended use of the firearm.
Based on our analysis, we recommend a 10.5" barrel for home defense and a 16" barrel for basically everything else.