Aero Precision began offering EPC (Enhanced Pistol Caliber), a line-up of AR9-style accessories and parts in 2021. The EPC shares many of the same features as the company’s M4E1 product line. This was my first experience with any of their products. The Aero Precision EPC-9 parts fit perfectly and are absolutely stunning. I knew I was in for a treat as soon as I picked up the parts.
Aero Precision EPC-9
Before we get into the details of the EPC-9, I thought it would be helpful to briefly explain my plans. My ZEV OZ9c is a part of my home defense, which my wife can use. It would be great if a Pistol Caliber Cartbine (PCC), which uses the same Glock compatible magazines as the ZEV, was available.
My wife would also love to shoot a PCC in 9mm. It’s also a great experience for me to plink. Aero Precision EPC-9 is the perfect solution.
Gun Details
My EPC experience began in four parts: 9mm bolt carrier group, AR15 Breach charging handle and complete upper and lower receivers. The BCG is made from 8620 steel and has a nitride coating. It also features a titanium pin that resists fracture and a 4140 steel extractor.
The entire BCG was designed to meet the high demands of an AR carbine. The BCG, which is the heart of the carbine weighs 14.7 ounces.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
The finished upper features a black 16-inch barrel and contrasts well with the FDE-finished ATLAS S-One handguard (15-inch). The Aero Taper Lock Attachment System, (ATLAS), is a new system that features two mirror tapered locking nuts. They evenly distribute pressure through a specially-engineered barrelnut using a turnbuckle screws. This helps to prevent distortion of the handguard.
The handguard has plenty of M-LOK space, front, and rear Picatinny rails and QD sling sockets located at 3, 6, and 9. The indexing grooves at the 12 o’clock position of the handguard allow for positive grip control. This is an added bonus.
The EPC upper’s last-round bolt hold-open is one of its best features. There is no dust cover or forward assist, and there is no need for them.
Finishing touches
The FDE-finished lower features a flared magazine that allows for quick reloads. It is compatible with standard-frame Glock magazines. The controls, safety, trigger, magazine release, safety, as well as the trigger, were finished in a striking black.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
To match the receiver, a Magpul MOE Grip or MOE SL-S Carbine Stock is used. A 7.7-ounce buffer of EPC is enclosed in an enhanced buffer tube and a M5 carbine buffer spring. Both the upper receiver and lower receivers can be made from 7075-T6 aluminum, which is custom-forged.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
The Breach charging handle, made of 7075-T6 aluminium, is ambidextrous. The charging handle has been cut to remove stuck-on carbon and other debris. It also has a gas deflection shelf that prevents you getting gas in your face when suppressed shooting.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
The EPC looked amazing when all four pieces were merged together; the contrast between the FDE’s black and white finishes is just incredible. The carbine felt solid and sturdy, especially the handguard.
Fighting Form
We purchased Magpul 15- and 27-round magazines to prepare the EPC for home defense work. We also purchased a Magpul M-LOK MVG vertical grip to make it easier to use for my wife if she needs it.
We chose Holosun’s Advanced Enclosed Micro Sight (AEMS) for the optic. It allows you to choose from three different reticles. For a fight in darkness, we used SureFire’s Scout Pro with its revolutionary Low Profile Mount.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
Although the EPC’s trigger was excellent, I wanted more. Blowing back can easily cause damage to trigger pins. Please ensure that trigger and pins have been PCC rated. Rise Armament’s Blitz trigger made the EPC ridiculously fun to shoot. It was great fun to shoot, but nothing like it.
(Photo by Andy Grossman
Dropping Nines
After oiling and cleaning the EPC, it was ready to hit the range. The Holosun AEMS made it easy to transition from target to target quickly and easily, thanks to the lack of felt recoil.
I put the EPC-9 through over 800 rounds, without cleaning it, and there were not a single hiccup. I used Defender 147-grain Bonded Jacket HP from Winchester (EPC like this is my favorite and would be my choice in home-defense ammo), USA Ready FMJ 115-grain FMJ and Active Duty Ball 115-grain Ball.
Remington’s UMC Centerfire Range Bucket 115-grain Range Bucket won the most in EPC, while their High Terminal Performance JHP 115-grain JHP ran like an athlete. SAR USA’s 124-grain NATO FMJ is a new product that proved to be a great plinking round.
Since this rifle was intended to be used primarily as a home defense carbine, I didn’t bother with formal accuracy measures. My main concerns were reliability and follow-up shots. It is still going 800 rounds per hour without any cleaning and shows no signs that it is slowing down. My transitions between targets were quick and double-taps were even faster.
It was my wife who shot it. That was the real test. It went smoothly, and she claimed it was hers at the end. Aero’s EPC is an important addition to our home defense arsenal. My only regret is not having two. Don’t make the same mistake as me.
For more information, please visit AeroPrecisionUSA.com.
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