Extar EP9

The Extar EP9 is the lightest production PCC on the American market at 4.2 pounds and one of the best values in firearms at $449. Built around a glass-reinforced polymer receiver, the EP9 weighs less than many handguns while delivering rifle-style handling and a 9mm blowback action that runs with remarkable reliability on everything from budget range ammo to defensive hollow points.

Glock G17 magazine compatibility is the EP9's killer feature. It runs OEM Glock magazines, Magpul PMAG GL9, Extar's own EM9 18-round mags, ETS, KCI, and 33-round Glock sticks without modification. The lower receiver accepts standard AR-15 mil-spec trigger groups, so upgrading the trigger is a drop-in job with hundreds of aftermarket options. The 6.5-inch barrel is threaded 1/2x28 for suppressors, and the M-LOK handguard accepts most rail-mounted accessories.

Extar sells direct from their website in Cocoa, Florida with no distributor network. The base model ships with an Extar stabilizer brace, two 18-round magazines, and a Blast Director muzzle device. The Essentials Bundle adds an SB Tactical SBA3 brace and additional magazine options. The EP9 has gained a devoted following for its reliability, light weight, and low price point, with the polymer receiver and blowback action proving more durable than the price tag suggests.