Rock River Arms Releases a 9mm Grab-and-Go Defender

With cross-compatibility and a diminutive, easy-to-transport profile, the new BT-9 from Rock River Arms may be the perfect ticket in these challenging times.

by the Shoot-On staff

Home defense and mobile defense options are increasingly on the minds of us all these days. As we evaluate our personal defense capabilities with a practical mindset, many are seeing the value of the 9mm AR pistol platform. It is easier to carry and transport than a carbine, and the 9mm chambering makes it more practical for in-home use than a rifle chambered for 5.56 NATO. Add in the ammo and magazine compatibility with GLOCK 9mm pistols and you have a firearm that’s ideal for bugging out, bugging home, or simply keeping the home front safe.

Rock River Arms‘ new BT-9 AR pistol is ideally suited for all the above. With its 4.5-inch barrel and adjustable 5-position stabilizing arm brace, the BT-9 measure a tight 23.5 inches when fully extended, making it suitable for carry in many daypacks or other “get home bags.”

Chambered in 9x19mm, the BT-9 is designed to accept GLOCK-compatible magazines. This advantageous feature means the shooter can have complete compatibility of ammunition and magazines between the BT-9 pistol and the GLOCK 9mm handgun.

Other features we like include the Rock River Arms two-stage trigger, overmolded A2 grip, and M-LOK-compatible free-float handguard that allows for a sling swivel attachment or other accessories, such as a tactical light. The adjustable stabilizing arm brace by SB Tactical is another bonus. It allows the pistol to be stored compactly yet the brace can be extended to best accommodate the shooter.

Rock River Arms BT-9 Specifications

Caliber: 9x19mm
Lower Receiver: BT-9 billet aluminum with GLOCK-compatible flared magwell and integral winter trigger guard
Upper Receiver: extruded aluminum A4
Barrel: 4.5-inch chrome moly, 1:10 twist
Muzzle Device: Smith Vortex flash suppressor, 1/2-36 thread
Trigger: RRA two-stage
Handguard: RRA lightweight free-float rail, 4.25-inch extended, M-LOK compatible
Pistol Grip: RRA overmolded A2
Arm Brace: SB Tactical SBA3 stabilizing arm brace, 5-position adjustable
Length: 23.5 inches (extended)
Include: one GLOCK-compatible magazine
MSRP: $1,350