Fx9 or pc9?
- Thread starter Eric24pen
- Start date
From what I understand the FX9 handles better (better weight distribution) and has AR15 style ergonomics (plus point). It's also very customizable.
ATRS are now making parts for the PC9 which will give owners a ton of options that weren't there before.
Regarding reliability I cant speak to the PC9 (but I have heard they run like a champ) but the FX9 may benefit from more buffer weight. I have seen some running in competitions and they never missed a beat (looked pretty awesome actually).
MacPapRonin
CGN Regular
- Location
- Toronto, ON
If you haven't definitely committed to one or the other of the two you mention, the JR (Just Right) 9mm PCC is apparently very good as well.
You have more options to customize the FX9, and the same basic operation as an AR if you're already familiar with that platform. For me the FX9 wins out for those reasons. Just make sure you get an FX-9 with the newer charging handle that they changed a couple years ago. If you're buying new this won't be an issue.
I have JR and PCC. Like them both a lot but they quite different. That's part of why i asked the configuration questions earlier
If OP wasn't a tatical (AR-ish) set up id be comparing FX9 to JR
If OP wants a take down "pack" rifle or something that will run forever the PCC is better (but its heavier hence why its not as good in the other category)
and thats why i own 1 of each
they excel at different things
Came across another thread here for a new chassis for the Ruger looks interesting. But ya need the gun first so $$
https://www.canadiangunnutz.com/for...387-New-Product-Alert-ATRS-PC-Carbine-Chassis
Also the kodiak k9 . And Lockhart tactical Raven9 to consider.
And Kriss Vector which is $$ and heavy.
And also the Crusader 9 Liberator.
Lots of options.
https://www.canadiangunnutz.com/for...387-New-Product-Alert-ATRS-PC-Carbine-Chassis
Also the kodiak k9 . And Lockhart tactical Raven9 to consider.
And Kriss Vector which is $$ and heavy.
And also the Crusader 9 Liberator.
Lots of options.
Thumbs up for the Kodiak K9 - my initial review here https://www.canadiangunnutz.com/for...3983-Kodiak-Defence-K9-PCC-Review-info-thread
I had both the FX-9 and the K9 - I sold the FX-9 as the latest version still behaves inconsistently with stovepipes and FTF.. and the BHO is still not functional with all magazines.
I have not tried the Ruger, JR, etc. But the Keltec Sub 2000 is another option that I have an I really like that platform as well. It's very different of course.
I had both the FX-9 and the K9 - I sold the FX-9 as the latest version still behaves inconsistently with stovepipes and FTF.. and the BHO is still not functional with all magazines.
I have not tried the Ruger, JR, etc. But the Keltec Sub 2000 is another option that I have an I really like that platform as well. It's very different of course.
Answer to your question will really depend on the planned usage. Both have cons and pros.
FX9 has familiar AR ergo, simple design that is easy to take down, service and clean. At the same it's not as reliable as PC9, even with heavier buffer. BHO is finicky. Design with buffer in the stock is questionable, it limits gun with stock options. Blowback action that fits in pistols should not take so much space. Quality of product is on the cheaper side. Accuracy is slightly worse than with PC9
PC9 has a bit different manual of arms, one can get used to it, however if you plan to compete, then ARish control of FX9 wins hands down. Gun is reliable and eats anything. Proprietary action design is questionable, Requires a lot of efforts to disassemble and clean. With TD feature you also have POI shift whenever you use HG to support gun. But you also getting compact size for transportation and various stock options such as folding stock and option to change barrel to short one. Quality of product is on the high side. Accuracy is just a tad better than FX9.
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I have seen quite a few FX9 malfunctions at matches, including fire control group component failures.
FX is much easier to clean. Ergos, it depends. If you’re used to AR controls, great. There aren’t many things I truly hate, but positioning the charging handle at the back of the receiver is one of them.
PC has been generally reliable, all malfunctions encountered so far were caused by mags or low power reloaded ammo (keep PF above 135ish, and PC will tick happily). Trigger parts are mostly shared with 10/22, so there’s some possibility for customization. If money is no object, one could order a PC Charger sans receiver from IRG. The PC carbine receiver is identical, except for the markings, AFAIK.
FX is much easier to clean. Ergos, it depends. If you’re used to AR controls, great. There aren’t many things I truly hate, but positioning the charging handle at the back of the receiver is one of them.
PC has been generally reliable, all malfunctions encountered so far were caused by mags or low power reloaded ammo (keep PF above 135ish, and PC will tick happily). Trigger parts are mostly shared with 10/22, so there’s some possibility for customization. If money is no object, one could order a PC Charger sans receiver from IRG. The PC carbine receiver is identical, except for the markings, AFAIK.
My personal experience having shot them both at PPC matches in SSW Ontario - the FX-9 is nice if you have a red dot on it. If you have a scope, better get a high (or very high) scope mount as it makes the rear charging handle difficult to grab/use quickly and cleanly. The Ruger (for me) worked great with a scope, red dot, or an LPVO. I reloaded my own 9mm+P with Blue Dot and had good accuracy at 100 yards (with 1.5-4.5x32 scope).
My current PPC competition firearm is the Ruger PC Carbine with the 6-position adjustable stock and a 1-6X LPVO. I like it.
My current PPC competition firearm is the Ruger PC Carbine with the 6-position adjustable stock and a 1-6X LPVO. I like it.
I have the Ruger PCC adjustable stock model and a JR Carbine. The Ruger has been absolutely reliable, even with light target loads (3.4 gr. of AA#2 + 124 RN PC'd bullet). While the controls are not AR style I have had no issue with them and there are more & more options coming out for this gun all the time (think TandemKross, etc.). it is a little on the heavy side but I'm 6 foot & 200 pounds so I don't find that an issue. Accuracy is good as are optic mounting options.
My JR Carbine is an earlier model and initially had some issues with ejection, etc. but I got the upgrades (buffer, feed ramp, etc) and swapped out the handguard for a longer M-Lok model and now it is quite dependable. Accuracy is about on par with the Ruger. I did put in an aftermarket Timney trigger which made a world of difference.
Takedown and cleaning is a little tedious for both these guns but they seem to function reliably for a lot of rounds until they need cleaning so that doesn't bother me.
I don't have nor have I tried the FX-9 but given that the Ruger and JR can both be had for the same or less money it doesn't offer anything that they don't. The mixed results field reports also lead me to think I made the right choice(s).
My JR Carbine is an earlier model and initially had some issues with ejection, etc. but I got the upgrades (buffer, feed ramp, etc) and swapped out the handguard for a longer M-Lok model and now it is quite dependable. Accuracy is about on par with the Ruger. I did put in an aftermarket Timney trigger which made a world of difference.
Takedown and cleaning is a little tedious for both these guns but they seem to function reliably for a lot of rounds until they need cleaning so that doesn't bother me.
I don't have nor have I tried the FX-9 but given that the Ruger and JR can both be had for the same or less money it doesn't offer anything that they don't. The mixed results field reports also lead me to think I made the right choice(s).
Id be looking at the tactical version eith the 6 position stock if i went with the ruger pc9. I'm hoping to do some competition shooting in the future so that is the appeal to the fx9 for me to keep controls for my rifles very similar.
i put a crom chassis on a pc9 tactical model. gets me the red dot on the barrel so no poi change when removing the barrel, and mag release in the proper place. threw a bunch of aftermarket at the trigger and it's a dream to shoot - it'll eat factory stuff, cheap aluminum, and my super whimpy 147g flat competition loads all no problem. don't think the fx9 can do that.
Shooter_01
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Durham Region, Ontario
I have an FX-9 and my buddy has the Ruger PC9 and the FX-9. We shot both quite a bit last year and in our experience the reliability between the two is similar. The FX-9 have both been stellar. His PC9 did have some brief FTE issues due to a screw or something coming loose (takedown?), but that’s since been resolved.
I prefer the FX-9 due to the ergos, balance, customization and ease of cleaning. The Ruger feels clumsy and front heavy to me, but still a cool gun nonetheless.
I prefer the FX-9 due to the ergos, balance, customization and ease of cleaning. The Ruger feels clumsy and front heavy to me, but still a cool gun nonetheless.
OP, I will assume you are meaning a new PC Carbine, not PC9 (which was discontinued years ago)
I have both and while this is my personal opinion, take it for what it is...
Ruger PC Carbine:
I picked this up for a few years ago only because the FX9 was not available. I bought the PC Carbine primarily because I absolutely hated my Keltec Sub2000 and since I already had a trusty and reliable 10/22 for many years, I trusted the Ruger brand. The PC Carbine I got was the one with the adjustable stock and the aluminum M-LOK handguard. I add this detail because it will contribute to one of my opinions on this carbine.
The PC Carbine came with a Ruger magwell by default (of course) and a SR9/S9 magazine. I promptly swapped it for the included Glock magwell, since I have Glock mags already.
I didn't care about the takedown feature one bit. Like, it was not even a consideration for me. I did like the aesthetic look of the carbine
PROS:
1. Accurate out of the box. I will always be impressed at how this was pretty accurate without any tweaks
2. Reliability. It has fed all sorts of ammo
CONS:
1. The aluminum handguard makes the gun front heavy, so in my view, the weight balance is not right. Those who don't have an aluminum handguard will not notice a weight difference. I have tried a number of things to mitigate the weight difference including foregrips, angled foregrips, etc.
2. This should have been #1, but the complete take apart is time consuming. It requires tools, and a number of steps. The Ruger recommended torque (60 inch/pounds or 65 in/pounds) is insane as it has started to strip the two screws/bolts. And I am using a FAT wrench to tighten. The screws/bolts seem captive into the carbine so not sure how easily replaceable they are. I have stopped taking the gun apart after this, and pretty much stopped using it all together
3. There are some very weak parts built into this gun - primarily the shock buffer and the shock buffer c clip. Replace with MCarbo components. Everytime I took the bolt assembly out with that buffer and clip, I swear it was going to snap that day. In my view, to get to the bolt, it's a bit too convoluted (did I mention you need an allen key to take it apart)
4. There is a pin in the trigger assembly that pops out very easily if not careful. Use black electrical tape to keep it in place when working on the trigger.
5. I have had 100% success with the Ruger magwell and mag for last round bolt hold open. For the Glock mags (OEM 10 rounder G5s is what I use), last round bolt hold open is hit and miss
Freedom Ordnance FX9:
When this finally became available, I snagged it up within minutes of seeing the in stock notification. There was a big order through Bullseye North for these which sold out within 24 hours a couple of year ago. I am glad I got in on it when I did. This is my preferred gun for all uses and I have taken this to the range more than any other gun I have and it has run through over 5,000 rounds so far. Here are my impressions.
PROS:
1. Superior ergonomics. I have never owned an AR but now can see why people love the handling. If this kind of handles like an AR, I get it. The weight distribution is great. The mag release location is great, the safe/fire switch location is great
2. The fastest takedown for cleaning/field stripping of any gun I have. No tools needed and I can literally get the firing pin out of the bolt within 15 seconds of starting the takedown. With the Ruger, I may be looking at minutes. Did I mention no tools needed?
3. Great aesthetics. For those who care about looks, the FX9 looks better than the PC Carbine, in my view.
4. Probably no one else will care about this except for me, but Freedom Ordnance is a Christian company and so I am very happy to support my fellow evangelical brothers and sisters in business.
CONS:
1. The biggest con is the bolt catch/latch. It goes off for no reason, sometimes even when the gun is not being touched. I would be at the bench, it would be in a Caldwell rest vertically, and I'd be loading my mags with rounds on the seat and then I hear the audible click as the bolt catch just releases. No one was touching the gun. Maybe a fly landed on it. I have taken it apart and elongated the spring. No doubt it is likely the quality of the spring that is the source of the problem
2. The last round bolt hold open is very unreliable with Glock OEM 10 rounder mags. It almost never works. PMAGs work slightly better as do PROMAGS, but it is still 50% or less success rate. It is probably something to do with the Glock spring, and this happens with BRAND NEW factory sealed retail mags that I just bought and tried
3. It comes super dry - not lubed. Before using, run G96 or whatever lube you like in it
4. It seems ammo picky in particular. Manual says NOT to use aluminum cased ammo (which I don't use anyway) but also it should run 115gr ammo to start. FO, when I contacted them did not really give me a reason why. Regardless, I did what it said to do. I now run 147gr exclusively through it
5. Charging handle is too small even for my small hands. I have the "enhanced" one, so I can't imagine what the original one was like. Lots of people recommended third party ones, particularly one made by a fellow member here.
If anyone has any further questions, feel free to reach out. I am hardly an expert on both but do have both so can provide some feedback on any nuance or aspect in particular.
They're reliable.
Early first gens had jamming issues, but that was largely fixed when FO chamfered the bolt.
Some of us had split pins in the buffer and charging handle work their way out, but that can happen to any gun if you didn't pay attention.
The bolt catch not working with all mags is well known. Find mags that it likes and it's good to go. If you have a pile of 10rd Glock mags get +10% Wolff mag springs. Mine worked perfectly with pinned PMAGs and KCI mags.
The first gens were picky when it came to hollowpoint ammo, mine included. Not sure about the second gens, but they have a different feed ramp and barrel extension so they could be less picky.
Nothing tends to break on these guns, find the ammo and mags it likes and enjoy.
Early first gens had jamming issues, but that was largely fixed when FO chamfered the bolt.
Some of us had split pins in the buffer and charging handle work their way out, but that can happen to any gun if you didn't pay attention.
The bolt catch not working with all mags is well known. Find mags that it likes and it's good to go. If you have a pile of 10rd Glock mags get +10% Wolff mag springs. Mine worked perfectly with pinned PMAGs and KCI mags.
The first gens were picky when it came to hollowpoint ammo, mine included. Not sure about the second gens, but they have a different feed ramp and barrel extension so they could be less picky.
Nothing tends to break on these guns, find the ammo and mags it likes and enjoy.
