9 Best 9mm Carbines (Pistol Caliber) 2025

As a Marine who has spent more time with a rifle than I care to admit, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for platforms that bridge the gap between a sidearm and a full-sized rifle. The 9mm carbine is a perfect example of this, offering the controllability of a pistol cartridge in a much more stable and accurate shoulder-fired package. Whether you’re looking for a home defense tool, a plinker that’s easy on the wallet, or a competition-ready firearm, the right 9mm carbine can be an incredibly versatile asset. The market in 2025 is flooded with options, but not all are created equal.

My criteria for ranking the best 9mm carbines are based on rugged reliability, practical accuracy, ergonomics, and overall value. I’ve put these firearms through their paces, considering everything from the quality of the trigger to the ease of maintenance. This list reflects my personal experience and is designed to cut through the marketing hype to give you a straight-shooting assessment. From time-tested designs to innovative new models, here are my top picks for the best 9mm carbines you can buy in 2025.

Kel-Tec SUB-2000

The Kel-Tec SUB-2000’s primary claim to fame is its unique folding mechanism that allows it to fold in half, making it one of the most compact and portable long guns available. When folded, it’s roughly the size of a briefcase, easily stowing in a backpack or under a car seat. This makes it an ideal choice for a truck gun or a discreet bug-out bag firearm. Like the Ruger, it accepts a variety of popular pistol magazines, including those from Glock, Beretta, and S&W, which is a massive logistical benefit. The low price point is also a significant factor, putting a reliable 9mm carbine within reach of almost any budget.

However, this carbine comes with some trade-offs. The ergonomics are a bit awkward, especially the charging handle location, which can be uncomfortable to manipulate. The sight picture with the factory iron sights is serviceable but not great, and the recoil impulse is a bit sharper than on heavier carbines. The polymer construction keeps the weight down but can feel a little flimsy compared to more robust options. Despite these quirks, the SUB-2000 fills a specific niche perfectly. If your top priority is extreme portability and you’re willing to practice with its unique handling characteristics, it’s an incredibly effective tool.

Pros

Folds in half for ultimate portability and concealment
Very affordable price point
Multi-magazine compatibility (Gen 2 models)

Cons

Awkward ergonomics and charging handle placement
Recoil is sharper than heavier carbines

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Smith & Wesson M&P FPC

Smith & Wesson’s entry into the folding carbine market, the M&P FPC, is a direct and well-executed challenge to the Kel-Tec SUB-2000. Its biggest advantage is its seamless integration with the M&P pistol line; it comes from the factory with three 23-round magazines and a compartment in the stock to store two of them. This is a brilliant feature that means your spare mags are always with the firearm. The folding mechanism is robust and locks up tight, and the rifle includes a hard case, which is a nice touch for the price.

Shooting the FPC is a pleasant experience. The ergonomics are far superior to the SUB-2000, with a more natural grip angle and a standard AR-15 style charging handle. The sights are excellent, and the Picatinny rail is long enough for most optics. The trigger is also a standout, being one of the better factory triggers in this category. It’s a simple, reliable blowback carbine that feels more refined than its primary competitor. If you’re an M&P pistol owner, this is an almost mandatory companion piece. Even if you’re not, it’s a top-tier choice for a folding 9mm carbine.

Pros

Folds compactly and includes integrated magazine storage
Excellent ergonomics and controls
Comes with three magazines and a hard case

Cons

Only compatible with M&P pistol magazines
Slightly heavier than other folding carbines

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Stribog SP9A1

The Grand Power Stribog SP9A1 is an import that offers a lot of the modern features of the CZ Scorpion at a more accessible price point. It features a closed-bolt, blowback-operated system with a roller-delayed component in some newer models (SP9A3), which helps reduce felt recoil. The SP9A1 we’re focusing on here is a straightforward blowback gun that is known for its reliability and solid construction. The all-metal receiver and cold hammer-forged barrel give it a durable, quality feel that stands out in its price range.

Out of the box, the Stribog comes with a folding brace (or stock, depending on configuration), an integrated Picatinny rail, and ambidextrous controls. It accepts proprietary magazines, but they are reliable and available in extended capacities. The low-profile design makes it easy to handle and shoot, and it’s very accurate. Some users have reported issues with certain hollow-point ammunition in earlier models, so it’s wise to test your preferred defense ammo. The aftermarket is growing, allowing for further customization. For the shooter wanting a modern, PDW-style 9mm carbine without the Scorpion’s price tag, the Stribog is a compelling option.

Pros

Robust all-metal construction feels very durable
Low-profile and compact design
Good value for a modern PCC

Cons

Uses proprietary magazines
Some reports of issues with specific hollow-point ammunition

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Beretta CX4 Storm

The Beretta CX4 Storm is a veteran in the PCC world, and its continued presence is a testament to its smart design. What I appreciate most is its fully ambidextrous nature; the charging handles, magazine release, and safety selector can be configured for left or right-handed shooters in minutes. It’s also one of the most ergonomic carbines available, with a comfortable grip and excellent balance. The CX4 is designed to share magazines with Beretta pistols (92/96 or Px4 Storm), which is a major plus for owners of those platforms.

This carbine is known for its incredible reliability. The straight-line stock design helps manage muzzle rise, and the action is remarkably smooth. It’s also very quiet compared to many other blowback 9mm carbines, a nice bonus at the range. The main downside is its age; the design hasn’t been updated significantly, so it lacks the modularity and extensive accessory rails of newer designs. The proprietary rail system requires an adapter for standard optics mounts. However, if you value proven reliability, great ergonomics, and ambidextrous features above the latest tactical trends, the CX4 Storm remains an excellent choice.

Pros

Fully ambidextrous controls
Proven, rock-solid reliability
Excellent ergonomics and balance

Cons

Proprietary accessory rail requires an adapter
Older design lacks modern modularity

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Extar EP9

The Extar EP9 is the budget king of the modern pistol-caliber carbine world. For a remarkably low price, you get a firearm that incorporates many features found on guns costing twice as much. It uses a unique gas-powered blowback system instead of a simple direct blowback, which results in an exceptionally soft and smooth recoil impulse. The entire firearm is incredibly lightweight, thanks to its polymer construction, making it easy to handle for shooters of all sizes. It comes standard with a pistol brace, making it ready to go out of the box.

Don’t let the low price fool you; the EP9 is a reliable and accurate shooter. It accepts standard Glock magazines, which is a huge benefit for parts commonality. The Picatinny rail on top is perfect for a red dot sight, and the M-LOK slots on the handguard allow for

Ruger PC Carbine

The Ruger PC Carbine is, in my opinion, one of the most practical and well-thought-out firearms on the market. Its standout feature is the interchangeable magazine well, which allows you to configure it to accept Ruger Security-9, Glock, or SR-Series magazines. This is a huge advantage for those who already own a compatible pistol, streamlining your ammunition and magazine logistics. The takedown design is another major win; it breaks down quickly without tools for easy transport and storage, and it reassembles with a repeatable lock-up that maintains zero for optics mounted on the barrel section. It’s a feature set that screams utility.

From a performance standpoint, the PC Carbine is a soft-shooting and incredibly reliable workhorse. The blowback action is simple and robust, handling a wide range of ammunition without a hiccup. The cold hammer-forged barrel provides excellent accuracy that outshines most shooters’ abilities, making it a fantastic choice for both new shooters and experienced marksmen. The built-in Picatinny rail is solid for mounting optics, and the overall ergonomics are comfortable and intuitive. While it’s a bit heavier than some polymer-framed competitors, that weight soaks up recoil effectively, making follow-up shots fast and easy. It’s a no-nonsense carbine that just works, every single time.

Pros

Interchangeable magazine wells for Glock, Ruger, or Smith & Wesson compatibility
Takedown design for easy transport and storage
Extremely reliable with all types of 9mm ammunition

Cons

Heavier than many polymer-framed carbines
Stock trigger is functional but could be improved

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CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1

The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 is a modern classic that brings a taste of military and law-enforcement design to the civilian market. Its roots are evident in its controls and overall layout, which are optimized for rapid, controlled fire. The Scorpion is incredibly lightweight and points naturally, making it exceptionally fast on target. The non-reciprocating charging handles on both sides are a fantastic feature for ambidextrous use, and the safety selector is large and easy to manipulate. Out of the box, it feels like a purpose-built tool for serious use, not just a range toy.

Where the Scorpion truly shines is in its massive aftermarket support. You can customize virtually every part of this firearm, from triggers and pistol grips to stocks and handguards. This allows you to tailor the gun exactly to your preferences. The blowback action is simple and reliable, and it comes optics-ready from the factory. The main drawback is the factory trigger, which is a bit heavy and gritty, but this is one of the most popular and easy upgrades for the platform. While it’s priced higher than some basic carbines, you’re paying for a modern, modular system that is a proven performer and a blast to shoot.

Pros

Modern, ergonomic design optimized for control
Huge aftermarket for customization
Ambidextrous controls and non-reciprocating charging handle

Cons

Factory trigger is heavy and gritty
Higher initial cost than many competitors

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9 Best 9mm Carbines (Pistol Caliber) 2025 – Ranked by a Marine

As a Marine, I have a certain appreciation for gear that just works. When it comes to 9mm carbines, I am looking for reliability, practical accuracy, and a platform that makes sense for home defense, training, or just a good day at the range. The market is flooded with options, so I have put together my list of the best 9mm carbines for 2025 based on hands-on time and real-world performance.

First up is the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1. This is a battle-proven design that is tough to beat. It is incredibly reliable, has a fantastic aftermarket for customization, and its ergonomics are top-notch right out of the box. It is a little heavy for its size, but you get a lot of rifle for the money.

For the AR-platform purist, the Sig Sauer MPX is the king. It is a gas-operated system, unlike most blowback 9mm carbines, which means it shoots unbelievably soft and flat. It is more expensive, but the performance is in a class of its own. It feels like shooting a .22 but with the punch of 9mm.

You cannot talk about 9mm carbines without the Ruger PC Carbine. This is the workhorse. It is simple, affordable, and eats every type of ammunition you feed it. The takedown feature is brilliant for storage and transport, and the ability to accept Ruger or Glock magazines with a simple change of the magwell is a huge plus.

The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is the ultimate backpack gun. It folds in half, making it incredibly compact. It is lightweight and, once again, has that great feature of accepting common pistol magazines. It is not the most refined weapon, but it fills a specific role perfectly.

For those who want the absolute peak of performance and are willing to pay for it, the B&T APC9 Pro is the choice. Swiss engineering is no joke. The hydraulic buffer system makes recoil almost non-existent, and the build quality is second to none. This is a professional-grade tool.

Other notable mentions include the Stribog SP9A3 (a great value with a roller-delayed blowback system), the Grand Power Stribog SP9A1 (a solid direct blowback alternative), the FX-9 (a very reliable AR-pattern budget option), and the classic Beretta Cx4 Storm, which remains a unique and capable carbine with excellent ergonomics.

My final piece of advice is to think about what you already own. If you carry a Glock, getting a carbine that takes Glock mags is a smart move. It simplifies your gear and training. No matter which one you pick from this list, you are getting a capable and fun firearm.

FAQ

Why should I choose a 9mm carbine over a rifle caliber like 5.56?

This is the first question I get. A 9mm carbine has three main advantages. First, it has significantly less recoil and muzzle blast, making it easier to shoot accurately and faster for follow-up shots, especially for new shooters. Second, ammunition is generally cheaper, so you can train more for the same cost. Third, if you already own a 9mm pistol, you can share magazines and ammunition, which simplifies your logistics. For home defense inside typical house distances, a 9mm carbine is more than adequate and often easier to manage than a full-power rifle.

What is the real difference between blowback and gas-operated 9mm carbines?

Most 9mm carbines use a simple blowback system. This means the bolt is heavy and is held closed by a spring; the force of the cartridge firing pushes the bolt back directly. It is simple and reliable but can produce a sharper, snappier recoil impulse. A gas-operated system, like in the Sig MPX, uses gas tapped from the barrel to cycle the action. This results in a much softer, smoother feel when shooting. The trade-off is that gas systems are more complex and typically more expensive.

Is magazine compatibility with my pistol a big deal?

In my opinion, yes, it is a huge deal. Standardizing on a magazine platform, like Glock or Sig, is a major force multiplier. You do not need to buy and keep track of separate, often proprietary, carbine magazines. Your pistol magazines become your backup mags for your carbine. This streamlines your training and your gear setup. It is one less thing to think about if you ever need to use the firearm defensively.

What are the main uses for a 9mm carbine?

These carbines are incredibly versatile. Their primary uses are: Home Defense (easier to aim than a pistol, more maneuverable than a shotgun or rifle), Training (cheaper ammo and low recoil make for excellent practice), and Recreational Shooting (they are just plain fun). They are also excellent for competitive shooting sports like USPSA Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) division.

Are these 9mm carbines considered rifles or pistols?

This is a critical legal distinction. Most start as pistols with a brace. However, laws have changed. As of 2025, if you want a stock on your firearm, it must be registered as a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) with the ATF, which involves a tax stamp and paperwork, unless the barrel is 16 inches or longer. Always check the current laws and the configuration of the firearm you are buying. The models on this list of the 9 Best 9mm Carbines (Pistol Caliber) 2025 – Ranked by a Marine are available in various configurations to comply with regulations.

What is a good optic to put on a 9mm carbine?

For the effective range of a 9mm carbine (out to about 100 yards), a red dot sight is perfect. I prefer a simple, rugged micro red dot like the Holosun 503 or Sig Romeo5. They are affordable, have long battery life, and hold zero well. There is no need for a high-magnification scope; a good red dot will get you on target quickly and keep you there.