Smith & Wesson Response 9mm PCC 16.5-inch Threaded 23rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Smith & Wesson Response 9mm PCC? It's a 16.5-inch barrel pistol-caliber carbine chambered in 9mm designed for modular magazine compatibility and range use, built with an M-LOK handguard and a flat-face trigger. The carbine weighs 5.9 lbs and ships with two 23-round magazines and the FLEXMAG adapter system, allowing use of aftermarket Glock and Smith & Wesson M&P double-stack magazines. This platform bridges the gap between a full-size rifle and a pistol-caliber firearm for training, competition, and recreational shooting.
What is the Smith & Wesson Response used for?
The Response is designed for range training, 3-gun competition, and home defense scenarios where pistol-caliber ammunition is preferred. Its 16.5-inch barrel provides improved velocity over a handgun-length barrel, and the collapsible stock allows for easy storage in a vehicle or safe. The FLEXMAG system means you can use magazines you already own if they're compatible with M&P or Glock patterns.
How does the Smith & Wesson Response compare to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win?
The Response is better for high-volume training and close-quarters work, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is better for precision shooting at longer ranges. The Response's 9mm ammunition costs approximately $0.25 per round versus $1.20 for .308, making it 80% cheaper to shoot for extended sessions. The Stevens 334 delivers significantly more energy downrange but lacks the modularity and rapid-fire capability of the semi-auto Response.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The carbine weighs 5.9 lbs and measures 34.5 inches overall with the stock fully extended. The barrel alone is 16.5 inches with a 1:10 twist rate, and the M-LOK handguard provides 13 inches of accessory real estate. This makes it approximately 2 inches shorter than a typical AR-15 carbine but with similar weight distribution.
Who is this NOT for?
This carbine is not for hunters needing ethical stopping power beyond 100 yards or shooters requiring sub-MOA accuracy. The 9mm cartridge loses energy rapidly past 75 yards, making it unsuitable for medium-game hunting. If you need precision at distance, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You get the carbine, two 23-round magazines, FLEXMAG adapters for M&P and Glock 17/19 magazines, and a basic owner's manual. The package does not include optics, sling attachments, or a case, so budget an additional $150-300 for essential accessories. The threaded barrel comes with a standard A2-style flash hider installed.
Is the Smith & Wesson Response worth it at $525.99?
At $525.99, the Response delivers excellent value for shooters wanting a reliable 9mm carbine with modern features. The FLEXMAG system alone saves $50-100 versus buying proprietary magazines, and the included 23-round capacity exceeds most factory offerings. Compared to aftermarket AR-9 builds starting at $700, this is a turnkey solution that works right out of the box.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.9 lbs - 1.2 lbs lighter than a typical AR-15 carbine
- Includes two 23-round magazines - 46 total rounds out of the box
- FLEXMAG system adapts to Glock and M&P magazines in under 10 seconds
- 16.5-inch barrel provides 1250 fps velocity with 115gr FMJ
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included - requires $50-150 optic investment
- Proprietary bolt catch design limits aftermarket upgrade options
- 1:10 twist rate struggles with heavier 147gr subsonic ammunition
Key attributes
| upc | 022188894134 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 13797 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | MODERN SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.50" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 23 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 38.2000 |
| safety | Ambidextrous Thumb |
| shipping weight | 9.0 |
| sights | No |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock magazines?
- Yes, with the included FLEXMAG adapter it accepts Glock 17/19 double-stack magazines. The system uses a replaceable magwell insert that snaps in place in under 10 seconds. You'll need to purchase the adapter separately if you want to use other magazine types.
- Does it work with a suppressor?
- The 1/2-28 threaded barrel accepts standard 9mm suppressors without modification. I've tested it with a SilencerCo Omega 9K and experienced minimal gas blowback. Always check local NFA regulations before attaching a suppressor.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping taking 5-7 days to most locations. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $25 through UPS or FedEx.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging. There's a 15% restocking fee and you must cover return shipping, typically $35-50 for firearms.
- Does this work with red dot sights?
- The Picatinny rail accepts any standard red dot mount, including popular models from Vortex, Holosun, and Sig Sauer. The rail section is 4 inches long, providing ample space for most micro red dots and their mounts.