5 inch ar pistol kit

5-Inch AR Pistol Kit — Compact Powerhouse

For builders who want a compact, lightweight, and high-performing platform, the 5-inch AR pistol kit hits the sweet spot. At AR15-Overstock we’ve curated kits optimized for reliable cycling, good short-range performance, and easy customization — perfect for home defense, PDW-style roles, or range fun.

Shop 5" AR Pistol Kits → /ar-15/pistol-kits/5-inch
Browse 5" Uppers → /ar-15/uppers/5-inch

Why Choose a 5-Inch AR Pistol?

A 5" AR pistol isn’t a novelty — it’s a practical compromise between compactness and performance:

  • Exceptional maneuverability: Short overall length for tight spaces (vehicle, truck, home).

  • Reduced weight: Lightweight handguards and short barrels reduce fatigue.

  • PDW & truck-gun friendly: Small footprint without totally sacrificing velocity.

  • Balanced performance: 5" barrels typically yield better velocity than ultra-micro barrels while remaining compact.

Want to compare lengths? See our Barrel Length & Gas System Guide → /guides/barrel-lengths.

What’s Included in Our 5" AR Pistol Kits

Each complete kit (parts vary by SKU — check product pages) typically includes:

  • 5" Precision Barrel (5.56 NATO or .300 BLK) — twist rate & finish listed on product page.

  • Pistol-Length / Micro Gas System & Gas Block — tuned for short barrels.

  • Flat-Top Upper Receiver — forged or billet options.

  • Free-Float M-LOK Handguard — short profile for low weight and accessory mounting.

  • Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) & Charging Handle — mil-spec or upgraded BCGs available.

  • Lower Parts Kit (LPK) — trigger, pins, springs, selector.

  • Pistol Buffer Tube Assembly (buffer, spring) or stabilizer/bracing option (if listed).

  • Threaded Muzzle Device or Protector — ready for upgrades.

If you prefer uppers-only: Shop 5" Uppers → /ar-15/uppers/5-inch
Need a complete kit instead? Shop All Pistol Kits → /ar-15/pistol-kits

Build & Assembly — Tips for a Smooth Start

Building from a kit is rewarding. A few tips for good results:

  • Work on a clean, well-lit bench and lay parts out before you begin.

  • Use proper armorer tools: punches, torque wrench, vise block, and armorer’s wrench.

  • Check headspace and function-cycle the action before live-fire.

  • If you’re unsure, consider a qualified gunsmith for final assembly and inspection.

Legal & Compliance — Know Before You Build

Laws change and vary by state. Always confirm legal requirements before purchasing or configuring a pistol:

Key legal notes:

  • A pistol must use a pistol brace or stabilizer — a rifle stock + barrel <16" may create an SBR requiring NFA compliance.

  • Vertical foregrips on pistols are restricted in many cases; angled foregrips/hand stops are typically acceptable.

  • The stripped lower receiver is the serialized firearm component and must be transferred through an FFL in accordance with federal law.

Choose the Right Caliber & Configuration

  • 5.56 NATO: Higher velocity, flatter trajectory — good for short-to-mid ranges.

  • .300 Blackout: Optimized for short barrels and suppressed fire — excellent for subsonic/suppressed builds.

  • Muzzle device & gas tuning: Small differences in devices and gas ports change reliability; choose kits where specs are published.

Compare 5" vs 4.75" uppers: Micro Uppers → /ar-15/uppers/micro
Complete pistol kits under $400 (when available): Budget Pistol Kits → /ar-15/pistol-kits/budget

Accessories that Make a Difference

Buying Checklist — Before You Check Out

  • Are BCG & charging handle included or sold separately?

  • Is barrel finish, twist rate, & gas length clearly listed?

  • Do product pages show returns, warranty, and shipping info? → /help/returns and /help/shipping

FAQs — 5" AR Pistol Kits

Q: What makes a 5" pistol different from a rifle?
A: A pistol has a barrel shorter than 16" and uses a pistol brace/stabilizer rather than a rifle stock. A rifle with a barrel under 16" is an SBR and requires NFA compliance.

Q: Is a 5" barrel reliable?
A: Yes — with a properly tuned pistol gas system and quality BCG, 5" barrels cycle reliably for most loads.

Q: Can I mount a suppressor to a 5" pistol?
A: Technically possible, but suppressed configurations often require gas adjustments and must comply with NFA rules. See ATF NFA guidance (opens in new tab).

Q: Do kits include magazines?
A: No — magazines are typically sold separately. Shop magazines → /ar-15/parts/magazines

Shop 5" AR Pistol Kits — Start Building Today

Compact. Reliable. Built your way. Browse our curated 5" AR pistol kits and related uppers to find the right configuration for your next build.

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