Should you’ve ever questioned what would occur in case you tossed an MP5, a CZ Scorpion, and an AR-9 right into a blender — nicely, the oldsters at Palmetto State Armory did simply that, and so they name it the AR-V.
I’ve spent some strong vary time with this compact pistol-caliber carbine, and right here’s my trustworthy take: it’s not making an attempt to be something it’s not.
As a substitute, it cherry-picks the perfect traits from iconic platforms and places them collectively in a tidy, backpack-friendly package deal. Let’s break down why that issues — and the way the PSA AR-V stacks up in opposition to the PCC hype.
Dwell Stock Value Checker
Acquainted However Completely different: MP5 Appears to be like, Scorpion Mags, AR Controls
Proper out of the field, the AR-V offers off particular MP5 vibes — the handguard and muzzle simply scream traditional subgun. However look nearer and also you’ll spot the Scorpion DNA in two huge methods: it runs Scorpion magazines and borrows a well-recognized magazine launch design.
The AR-V’s magazine launch sits ahead of the set off guard, similar to on the Scorpion EVO 3. If you hit slide lock, your set off finger can push the discharge ahead to drop the magazine shortly — intuitive in case you’ve ever run a Scorpion, however with a barely tweaked design that works nicely when you construct the muscle reminiscence.
Controls in every single place else are commonplace AR-15, which is a plus for anybody who already runs an AR. One quirk: the bolt catch/launch is above the magwell. It’ll really feel odd at first, however when you get the hold of it, the First few magazine swaps, you’ll fumble. After a number of reload drills, it begins to click on. It’s a wise placement when you’re used to it — slam in a recent magazine, hit the bolt launch, and also you’re again on track.
The mix of the position of the magazine launch and the bolt launch makes reloads lightning quick….when you get the hold of it. Nothing a little bit dry fireplace can’t remedy.
Taking pictures the ARV-9: MP5 Nostalgia With AR Familiarity
I ran mine with an EOTech 512 — loads of glass for a PCC. At 35 yards, it was boringly correct. It’s a 7” barrel, so it ought to be.
Recoil? Minimal. Should you flinch at 9mm blowback recoil, you would possibly need to take up golf.
One factor I admire: the muzzle is prepared for no matter path you need to take this gun. You’ve bought 1/2×28 threads for a direct-thread flash hider or suppressor, and it’s tri-lug suitable too. That’s huge in case you like quick-attach/detach cans, which I do.
The subsequent time you see this gun, it’ll be carrying a suppressor. Greater than seemingly a CGS MOD9.
Set off Time: Not Fancy, However Will get the Job Achieved
The set off is your fundamental mil-spec single-stage. Not gonna win any precision matches, however it breaks predictably. Out of the field, it felt considerably tough. Nothing a number of vary classes (and some hundred rounds of 147-grain subsonic) received’t clean out. Typically you simply should shoot the gun.
Reliability: It Eats What You Feed It
Up to now, zero malfunctions. I ran HOP Munitions 147-grain subsonic a lot of the day, then tossed in a magazine of Blazer 115-grain FMJ for good measure; no hiccups.
The 35-round AKV journal that got here with it hundreds simply from the highest, similar to an AR journal, drops free on empty, and locks in with a satisfying click on. I’m planning on choosing up a pair extra AK-V 35-rounders.
Some Nineteen Nineties DIY: Sure, I Zip-Tied My Mild
For the sunshine, I threw on my Streamlight Polytac with a Magpul mount. However I needed it tucked in nearer than the unique mount allowed, so I busted out some old-school 90s problem-solving: zip ties and tape. Appears to be like tough, works fantastic — name it “area expedient mounting.”
This gentle mount job shouldn’t be superb, however it’s what I had mendacity round. I’d choose to have a Surefire Scout with the 45-degree offset mount. Or an INFORCE that instantly mounts to the pic rail.
Carry and Packability: A PCC That Truly Travels Nicely
Right here’s the place the AR-V earns its preserve for me: it’s compact sufficient to reside in a backpack, device bag, or vary bag with out drawing stares. The SB Tactical HBPDW brace collapses properly, the general “slick” design retains snag factors to a minimal, and it’s simply a simple gun to haul round.
Specs at a Look
Barrel: 7” 4150V Chrome Moly, Nitride-Handled
Muzzle: 1/2×28 threads plus Tri-Lug compatibility
Caliber: 9mm (9×19)
Twist Fee: 1:10
Higher: Solid 7075 T6, Slick Facet Higher Receiver
Handguard: 5” MP5-Fashion Free-Float Aluminum
Bolt Service Group: AR-V 9mm BCG, 8620 Metal with Enhanced Firing Pin
Decrease: Solid 7075 T6 Aluminum, MOE EPT Construct Equipment
Brace: SB Tactical HBPDW Pistol Stabilizing Brace
Magazines: PSA AK-V U9 35-Spherical (Additionally Suitable with CZ Scorpion Mags)
Last Ideas: Ought to You Purchase One?
Should you’re searching for a soft-shooting PCC that borrows the perfect bits from legendary platforms, the AR-V hits that candy spot. It’s reasonably priced, enjoyable to shoot, straightforward to stash, and dependable sufficient to belief for a truck gun or dwelling protection.
The quirks? They’re all manageable — the bolt catch takes a number of reps to grasp, the mil-spec set off smooths out with use, and in case you’re helpful with zip ties, mounting your gentle is not any downside.
Subsequent up: a suppressor, a pile of ammo, and extra vary time. The PSA AR-V Assessment verdict? This hybrid PCC lives as much as its promise — after which some.
About Scott Witner
Scott Witner is a former Marine Corps Infantryman with 2ndBn/eighth Marines. He accomplished coaching in desert warfare on the Marine Air Floor Fight Middle, Mountain Warfare and survival on the Mountain Warfare Coaching Middle, the South Korean Mountain Warfare Faculty in Pohang, and the Jungle Warfare faculty within the jungles of Okinawa, Japan. He now enjoys leisure taking pictures, path working, mountain climbing, useful health, and dealing on his truck. Scott resides in Northeastern Ohio.
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