PM SHP: detailed review of the cold Makarov pistol

The emasculated Makarov pistol is a once combat model of a pistol, decommissioned for one reason or another from combat use (usually due to severe wear), and through partial modernization it was transferred to firing noise cartridges. Thus, the pistol gains the ability to shoot only flash-noise cartridges, and the owner gets the opportunity to avoid conflict in many cases - the appearance and other characteristics remain the same. After all, few people in their right mind would continue a conflict if their opponent had firearms?

But the most important thing is that cold weapons can be purchased without a license, since their cartridges do not contain a destructive element, and accordingly they are not capable of causing physical harm.

Main PM models on the market

Cooled PM on the civilian weapons market is represented by three common options:

• Makarov-SO
• PM CX from Molot Arms.
• Makarov pistol R-411

The model, practically no different from the original one, is considered to be the VPO-525 from the Molot Arms company. The SHP pistols of this company differ only in a change in the barrel - a sleeve is welded into the bore at a distance of 15-17 mm from the muzzle, the chamber is expanded for the use of 10x24 flash-noise cartridges from Techkrim, and the barrel itself is additionally welded to the frame to make modifications impossible. PM CX is produced by converting military weapons into signal pistols with psychological impact - during a shot, a bright flash erupts from the barrel, simulating a shot from a live cartridge, accompanied by a realistic sound of the shot.

Makarov-SO is produced by reworking traumatic PMs, with the same upgrades as the combat versions. The only complaint about it from buyers is that the barrel plug is located too close to the muzzle. But at the same time, this model is also the cheapest of the three.

R-411 are also produced on the basis of military weapons, but the PM SKh differs only in the manufacturer - it is produced at the IzhMash plant. This plant is famous for the fact that it was here that serial production of the Makarov combat pistol was launched in 1951, and besides the engineers of this plant, few people know better all the technical processes of producing this weapon.

The difference between the cooled R-411 and the PM

The IZHMASH plant began producing a cold Makarov pistol. In the R-411 model, to simulate a shot, a 10TK non-lethal flash-noise cartridge is used, produced by the leading manufacturer of cartridges and components for self-defense, Tekhkrim CJSC.

The 10TK cartridge used does not contain a striking element; it does not contain a bullet. The purpose of this ammunition is to provide a light and noise effect. The cartridge is made on the basis of a standard cartridge case for a 9 mm caliber combat cartridge used in PM.

Comparison of the cooled Makarov pistol PM R411 and PM SO

As mentioned above, the R-411 is produced at the enterprise that produced Makarov combat pistols. That is why this model is considered the most authentic of all the models presented above - the main parameters indicating this are that the R-411, as a rule, is made from serial pistols of the first releases, as well as the “spirit of IzhMash” allegedly present in them.

Advantages and disadvantages

A sample that fully corresponds to military weapons

Original serial numbers

High cost of the pistol

PM-SO, in turn, is a product of tertiary processing - initially the combat model was converted into a weapon of limited destruction (traumatic) and only then, from a decommissioned traumatic weapon, it was processed into an SHP pistol. PM-SO is produced by the PMK Kurs enterprise, registered in the Astrakhan region.

Advantages and disadvantages

Low cost

Multiple design redesigns

"New" serial numbers

Incomplete appearance matches the combat pistol

In addition to some technological solutions necessary for the production of the Makarov in its cooled version, both models have two noticeable visual differences - the cheaper PM-SO has a cut in the bolt, which immediately identifies it as a “non-combat” weapon. The second difference will be the coupling, which does not allow the use of cartridges with a striking element - in the Astrakhan pistol it is located closer to the muzzle of the barrel, and is immediately noticeable.

Technically, both pistols are made almost identically, but the PM-SO has a weakened bolt mechanism, the barrel and bolt are made of a single element, as well as the poorer quality of other components. But at the same time, it significantly benefits in price - the difference between the two samples is at least 2,000 rubles.

Characteristics of the cartridge

In order for the pistol to comply with the requirements of Federal Law No. 150 “On Weapons”, the following changes were made to it:

• There is a plug in the R-411 barrel, which is located 5 mm from the muzzle hole. Its task is to prevent the use of cartridges with a solid projectile. The plug is secured by two hardened pins that pass through the barrel walls and are secured by arc welding;
• The R-411 barrel is equipped with a narrowing sleeve, which is fixed with a hardened pin secured by arc welding. The purpose of the bushing is to form a chamber of shallower depth for a 10 mm caliber cartridge. The combat rifling remained inside the barrel;
• The R-411 barrel is attached to the frame post with one-piece fasteners (pin). The hardened pin is installed using a press and fixed by welding. This design excludes even the theoretical possibility of converting the pistol into a combat pistol (using a frame to install a combat barrel);
• the P-411 frame has a groove in the back, near the guides. A hardened pin is installed there with a welded seam in place. Thus, the possibility of rearranging the bolt from the combat model is excluded;
• the shutter was practically not deactivated. The lugs remained in place on both the right and left sides. The weapon number has been removed from the bolt surface. The interior of the part remains the same over the entire surface, except for the groove for the frame pin;
• handle linings R-411 made of polymer material, painted black. The original is equipped with brown overlays;
• The R-411 magazine holds seven rounds. The heel is made of polymer material. The pistol is compatible with magazines from combat models;
• The mainspring remained in the design of the pistol.

The main advantage of this model is the ability to fire a shot that is harmless to others, and also to study in practice the procedure for assembling and disassembling military weapons.

Arguments in favor of choosing a particular model

If I personally had to choose, I would choose the R-411 due to its greater authenticity and similarity to the combat PM, both externally and technically. This sample is best suited for training in disassembly and assembly, and can also be used to train beginners in combat shooting so that they do not close their eyes when firing. Plus, it is not worn off anywhere in unnecessary places, like VPO-525, and even retains authentic serial numbers.

I would choose PM-SO only if there is a critical shortage of funds for the purchase - its guides are sharpened in the same way as those of the VPO-525, the barrel has undergone a double alteration (from combat to traumatic, and from there to signal) and literally gives itself away with its appearance, and also the awkward cut of the bolt only spoils the overall appearance of the once military weapon.

Characteristics of the signal pistol R 411 PM (Baikal)

Buy a cooled pistol PM R-411 (Makarov, Baikal) in the Popadiv10 online store. Cooled pistol PM R-411 (Makarov, Baikal) at a low price of 17,990 rubles. You can pay for your order by mail upon receipt in any part of the Russian Federation. Before placing an order, be sure to check the price and contents of the product by phone (during business hours) or by e-mail and feedback system (at any time convenient for you).

Information on the product “Cooled Pistol PM R-411 (Makarov, Baikal)” is for informational purposes only and is not a public offer determined by the provisions of Article 437 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation; characteristics, appearance, color and equipment may be changed by the manufacturer without notice.

Specifications

What is an air gun

First, let’s briefly talk about what pneumatics are:

Air guns operate by converting gas energy into mechanical energy. Pneumatics are used in a variety of ways: from target practice and weapons training, to small game hunting and military tactical games (hardball and paintball). An important characteristic of pneumatic weapons is power:

• Up to 3 J: training in shooting skills, airsoft (calibers 6 and 8 mm)
• Up to 7.5 J: air guns for paintball, hardball (4.5mm caliber) and hunting small pests
• Up to 25 J: calibers from 4.5 to 6.35 mm for hunting and sports; models of this power require registration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and are not sold at Forest-Home.

The pneumatic PM, which will be discussed in this article, usually has a power of up to 3 J, and a bullet flight speed of 100 to 120 m/s. For comparison, the bullet speed of a real Makarov Pistol is 315 m/s. It may seem that the differences between the models are insignificant, but this is not entirely true. They are.

One of the differences between pneumatic PMs is the presence of bolt travel when fired . This feature is called Blowback . It gives realism, but due to this, the consumption of the cylinder is higher and the speed of the bullet drops slightly. It is worth remembering that in this case the pistol will experience recoil, which can affect the accuracy of fire. Pistols with this feature, of course, have a spring under the bolt carrier.

The barrel can also be different . It is made both with and without rifling. Oddly enough, in the case of an air pistol, the rifling inside the barrel is a disadvantage , not an advantage, since metal bullets do not fit into these riflings. Also, part of the gas from the cylinder escapes through these riflings, due to which the power is reduced . The explanation for this phenomenon is simple: many factories have huge production lines for the production of rifled barrels and their use in pneumatics reduces the cost of the production process.

Pneumatic PM magazines can also be divided into two types. There are one-piece magazines into which a cylinder and bullets are placed, after which such a magazine is inserted into the pistol in the same way as it happens with real analogues . But in some cases the cylinder is placed separately, which usually requires removing the plug from the pistol handle.

And so, let's move on to different models.

Cartridges for cooled PM

All of the above types of cooled pistols are designed for the same 10x24 mm TK (Tekhkrim) cartridge, however, they are also suitable for cartridges produced by Fortuna LLC. A completely logical question arises: which of them to use?

It is still recommended to use 10TK cartridges due to miscalculation of power and preservation of the pistol’s life.

In February 2022, Tekhkrim increased the weight of gunpowder in 10TK cartridges without changing the appearance of the cartridge (in particular, without changing the color of the varnish). This could cause some problems with older models of pistols, but already in March the first batch of “reinforced” cartridges was released with separate markings on the box, as well as with a cartridge star painted red. Thus, the company took a step once used with 10x31 cartridges, increasing the weight of gunpowder. Yes, both 10TK and 10x31 are produced by the same plant - TekhKrim.

Attention! Pay attention to the condition of your pistol's automatics. Do not use reinforced cartridges in pistols produced before 2018; they are not always designed for such power. In case of damage to the mechanism due to the use of non-standard cartridges with reinforced mounting, the warranty for the SHP weapon is void.

I agree, it is not uncommon for the owner to start reading the instructions after clearly realizing that the pistol is completely broken due to the use of non-standard cartridges with a reinforced load. This, of course, causes fair indignation, but you only have yourself to blame. The reason here lies in the fact that there are some forensic restrictions on SHP weapons - the manufacturer is obliged to do everything to make it impossible to turn his weapon into a combat weapon. That is why the design is weakened, the operation of the automation is technically corrected, while maintaining the external identity of the samples.

Remember that any attempt to convert a weapon into a combat weapon is punishable under the laws of the Russian Federation.

Ammo for cold weapons

Ammunition can be divided into two groups:

The first is cartridges that are sold freely;

The second is cartridges for adult citizens of the Russian Federation if they have a license to store and carry rifled hunting weapons.

The first group of ammunition includes:

• 10TK;
• 10x31;
• 10x24.

The picture below shows 10x31 cartridges produced by Tekhkrim

The picture below shows 10x24 cartridges

10TK and 10x31 are produced by Tekhkrim CJSC, 10x24 "Fortuna". 10TK and 10x24 are suitable in size for PM and 9x19 Luger ammunition. Which makes them suitable for equipping pistols of the corresponding calibers. 10x31 is used in cooled weapons that previously used 7.62x25 caliber shells.

Light-noise ammunition 10TK and 10x31 are produced by cutting a 5.45x39 AK cartridge case using an asterisk twist. 10x24 is rolled and equipped with a plastic plug, which, when fired, breaks into 4 elements.

The second group of cartridges is represented by the following types:

• 9mm. Luger;
• 5.45x39;
• 7.62x39;
• 7.62x54.

This ammunition is sold strictly with a license to store and carry firearms. And they are used in long-barreled, cooled pneumatics.

Areas of application of SHP PM

Cold weapons are very often used in historical reconstructions, to train personnel of security companies or paramilitary units in weapon maintenance processes, and also help to develop a confident grip and shot in unusual situations. As already written above, beginners often squint at the shot, losing sight of the target and at the same time getting lost in the combat situation - it is for this purpose that they are “fired at” with the help of SHP weapons.

Often such weapons are used for self-defense purposes - small hooligans can be frightened by the sound of a shot or the sight of a “combat” weapon in the hands of the defender. However, it should be remembered that carrying a cooled pistol is not forbidden, but it is also not encouraged - in such cases, finding out the condition of the pistol from law enforcement agencies can take a long time, so always carry with you a passport from the pistol, which indicates the company that carried out the cooling of the weapon.

Remember that arbitrary shooting from an empty weapon within the city entails liability under Article 20.13 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation and is punishable by fines from 40 to 100 thousand rubles, as well as confiscation of weapons and revocation of permission to own other types of weapons for up to 1.5 years. It is also possible to prosecute the shooter under Article 213 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation “Hooliganism”, which entails even greater fines.

Despite the fact that the cartridge of a cooled pistol does not have a destructive element, both weapons and cartridges should be stored in places inaccessible to children or unauthorized persons - at best, the owner can only lose his toy, and at worst, he may be punished under the above articles.

History of the creation of PM

The pistol, designed by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov, was adopted into service to replace the TT, which did not meet the new army requirements for personal short-barreled weapons. During the Second World War, soldiers and officers of the Red Army gained extensive experience in the combat use of personal short-barreled weapons, both domestic and captured, of a variety of designs and manufacturers. The advantages, disadvantages and various features of most combat pistols of that time were identified. Including, clashes at short and extremely short distances, close battles in urban conditions showed the insufficient stopping effect of the bullet of the cartridge used in standard TT pistols, compared to the more effective 9 mm cartridges of the German Parabellums and Walters, as well as several significant shortcomings of the cartridge itself weapons. For example, the TT did not provide a sufficient degree of safety in handling due to the lack of a safety mechanism, in addition to the safety cocking of the hammer, which did not allow one to safely carry a pistol in full combat readiness at all times. The TT also had a fairly long length.

Its simple trigger mechanism worked only in single-action mode, while the best German captured pistols had a double-action trigger, which allowed the pistol to be safely carried with a cartridge previously chambered, and the owner of the weapon could instantly open fire. The need to develop and adopt a more advanced type of personal weapon that meets all the requirements of that time became obvious. And, in fact, officers preferred to go into battle not with a pistol, but with a much more effective submachine gun, using the service TT or captured Walter only when absolutely necessary, if the more effective weapon failed or simply ran out of cartridges. So, even during the war, it was decided to replace the Tokarev pistol with a modern model with higher combat and performance qualities. As a result, not only the requirements for personal weapons were revised, but also the overall concept of their use in the field army.

The new pistol was supposed to have smaller dimensions and weight, a trigger mechanism that allowed opening fire without first cocking the hammer, a greater stopping effect of the bullet, greater safety in handling and high reliability in difficult operating conditions. An experimental Makarov pistol was developed at the Tula TsKB-14 (later renamed TsKIB SOO) under the designation TKB-429, which exactly met the above requirements. At the beginning of the search for the best option and the early stage of development work, Makarov designed two versions of his pistol. One was chambered for the 7.65mm Browning cartridge, which gave the advantage of smaller dimensions and weight of the weapon, the other was chambered for the more powerful domestic 9x18. The 9x18 cartridge was created by engineer Semin before the start of the war. Its prototype was the German 9mm Ultra, developed by the German company GECO, however, having the same sleeve length, these cartridges are not interchangeable, since the bullet diameter of the domestic cartridge is 9.2 mm. In terms of energy and bullet speed, the 9×18 (official designation 57-N-181) occupies a niche between the 9mm Short and 9mm Parabellum, having a greater stopping effect of the bullet than the first and at the same time the ability to be used in blowback weapons, in comparison with second. The new Russian 9 mm cartridge was shorter than the standard 7.62x25, with a lower muzzle velocity and bullet energy, and less penetrating effect. However, due to the larger caliber, it not only had no less stopping power than the more powerful 7.62 mm cartridge, but even surpassed it in this quality. As a result, the choice was made in favor of the more effective 9 mm cartridge.

Makarov worked day and night to create his pistol. According to the designer’s recollections: “Suffice it to say that at that time I worked every day, practically without days off, from eight o’clock in the morning until two or three o’clock in the morning, as a result of which I modified and shot samples two or even three times more than my competitors, which, of course, made it possible to perfect reliability and survivability.” By choosing an automatic operation scheme using recoil energy with a free shutter, the designer made the weapon small-sized, relatively light, very reliable in operation, easy to maintain and inexpensive to manufacture. In general, the general layout and design of the components and mechanisms of the weapon were based on the solutions used in the German Walther PP, but at the same time Makarov significantly improved them in several areas: simplification of both the design itself and the handling and maintenance of the pistol; multifunctionality of parts; increasing operational reliability under extreme operating conditions; increasing the strength of parts and service life; increasing manufacturability and the pace of mass production. The recoil spring is located around the barrel, making the pistol more compact and lighter than designs that place the recoil spring under the barrel.

Makarov managed to almost completely eliminate delays in firing caused by sticking the cartridge into the feed ramp. The designer managed to achieve an ideal relationship between the height of the upper cartridge, the geometry and inclination of the chamber bevel, the shutter-casing mirror and the ejector design. With the PM, the upper cartridge in the magazine is located very high, almost at the level of the chamber, as a result of which, with the other above-mentioned features, the cartridges are fed at a minimum angle and the risk of sticking is minimized. The same Walter PP is very “picky” about the shape of the bullet of the cartridges used due to the low location of the upper cartridge in relation to the chamber. The reliability of the PM thanks to this design has been proven not only in tests, but most importantly, in real combat operations - in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and other countries where local soldiers fought and continue to fight. The hammer-type, double-action trigger mechanism with automatic safety cocking has a much simpler and more technologically advanced design. Descent with warning. The trigger pull when shooting with a pre-cocked hammer in single action mode is 2 kg, and when shooting self-cocking - 4.5 kg. The trigger parts are much stronger, more durable, and the mechanism itself is easier to maintain than that used in the PP pistol. The bolt stop lever is located on the left side of the frame.

The design of the Makarov PM pistol

On the left surface of the bolt-casing there is a safety lever, which, when turned on, blocks the firing pin and safely releases the hammer. In the on position, the safety locks the sear and the bolt-casing, while the trigger does not touch the firing pin. The PM fuse is an original design, significantly different from the Walter PP system, and the only significant similarity is its location. Makarov designed a fuse that is turned off by moving the lever to the lower position, that is, by a natural movement of the thumb of the shooter’s hand holding the weapon, while Walter’s fuse is turned off by moving the lever up. Sighting devices consist of a fixed front sight, made as part of the bolt-casing, and a rear sight, fixed in a dovetail groove with the possibility of making lateral corrections. The magazine latch is located at the bottom of the handle. The gun consists of only 32 parts.

The PM has good accuracy for a compact pistol. When shooting at 25 meters with standard 57-N-181 cartridges, the dispersion radius of the R100 is 75 mm, and at 50 meters it is 160 mm. At a distance of 10 meters, the dispersion radius is only 35 mm. It is necessary to separately note one of the design features of the PM - the multifunctionality of parts. For example, a double-leaf mainspring of complex shape, in addition to its direct and main purpose, also performs the function of a hammer release spring by bending its wide feather, and the lower end of the spring is a magazine latch. Some parts, especially the fuse, have a rather complex shape. But subsequently, a change in the production method made it possible to simplify and reduce the cost of the technological process. As a result, Nikolai Fedorovich created a pistol, which is an independent design with a number of original solutions, much more reliable, durable, simple and has a greater service life than the Walther PP taken as a basis.

F.V. pistols took part in the competitive tests. Tokareva, I.I. Rakova, P.V. Voevodina, S.A. Korovina, A.A. Klimova, GV. Sevryugin, S.G. Simanov and A.I. Lobanov, as well as foreign systems such as Walther PP, Mauser HSc, Sauer 38H, Beretta M1934 and FN Browning model 1910/22. The standard pistol was the standard TT. The most severe test was placing the pistols in a pit filled with a slurry of sand and water. In this case, Makarov’s sample demonstrated undoubted superiority in reliability. Pistol designed by N.F. Based on the results of tests in 1948, Makarov was recognized as the best, but it was recommended to make a number of changes to the design. After some modifications, the pistol was put into service under the designation PM (Makarov Pistol) in 1951. At the same time, after all the necessary work to improve and prepare for mass production, its production was launched at the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant back in 1949.

It should be noted that during the initial period of production, work was carried out in parallel to improve and adapt the design of the pistol for mass production and to develop the most suitable technology. The plant's designers and technologists did a great job. Identified defects were eliminated, such as short service life, rapid settling of the mainspring and other shortcomings. As a result, the original version of the PM pistol underwent a number of changes, both internal and external. The experience of combat use in the army and law enforcement agencies testifies to the very high reliability and ease of use and maintenance of these weapons. Over time, shortcomings also emerged: a small stopping and penetrating effect of the bullet; small magazine capacity; a narrow handle, with a small angle of inclination like that of the TT - 102°, which does not provide full contact with the palm. Shooters with a low level of training or without regular training shooting with a PM do not demonstrate high accuracy, since its handle and somewhat peculiar “grip” need to get used to.

When shooting from a PM, especially when the bluing is erased, in side light the reflection on the front sight is perceived as the absence of its side part. As a result, the shooter turns the weapon in the direction of the light and the bullets fall away from the center. The presence of a manually controlled safety lever, which complicates the handling of the weapon, can also be considered a disadvantage of the weapon. However, at that time, the concept of personal short-barreled peacetime weapons dominated, that is, light, compact, convenient, possessing the necessary accuracy at short shooting distances and not burdensome for everyday wear. In the event of the outbreak of hostilities, personal weapons would no longer be very serious or significant on the battlefield. Therefore, the disadvantages of the Makarov pistol were not taken seriously into account, especially in comparison with its advantages.

The very first PMs were produced in Tula in a trial batch of 20 to 30 pieces. The numbers began with “TM”, followed by numbers and the year. After this, the production of Makarov pistols was moved to Izhevsk, where in 1949 a test batch of 5,000 copies was made, with numbers starting with “TM”. The frames of pistols of early production (1949 - 1953) are distinguished by a figured front part, and the trigger guard has a protrusion on the right side of the upper edge. The side protrusion of the trigger guard, when pulled down, opened access to the trigger, making it possible to remove it. In 1949, the pistol number was stamped on the rather wide front lower end of the bolt casing. In later versions, numbers were placed on the left side of the bolt casing and frame. The slide stop at the bottom had a release lever, also called a tooth. After the last cartridge was used up, the bolt-casing was placed on the bolt stop, and at the moment the loaded magazine was attached, the lever (tooth) of the bolt stop, interacting with the inclined protrusion of the window on the left side of the magazine, released the bolt-casing, sending the cartridge into the chamber. In order to ensure greater safety in handling weapons, the lever that automatically turns off the bolt stop was subsequently abolished. Now, in order to release the bolt casing with the magazine removed or attached, you need to press the outer protrusion of the bolt stop. Such a reduction in the combat qualities of the weapon, increasing the reloading time, is, of course, a controversial decision, but justified by the practice of operation in the army. The rear wall of the base of the handle of the PM frame produced in 1949 has a flat surface and does not have a bracket for clamping the mainspring, which is held directly by the handle and screw. Since 1950, the shape of the rear surface of the base of the handle has been changed due to the fact that the fastening of the screw holding the mainspring and the cheeks of the handle was constantly weakening.

In 1950, production of the same shaped frames began, but with the base of the handle having a mount for the mainspring clamp bracket and the clamp itself. Pistols manufactured in 1949 were equipped with grip cheeks with a diamond-shaped cross notch on the back surface, the color of which could be either black or brown. Later ones have a smooth back surface, and only a red-brown color with various shades of it. From the second half of 1953, pistols with a modified trigger pull shape and reduced trigger free play began to be produced, as well as transitional models with a shaped frame, a bracket for clamping the mainspring, and a trigger guard that does not have a protrusion. In 1954, the configuration of the safety lever lever changed slightly. From the same year, production of a new type of frame began, with a thin front part, which is used to this day. In 1970, a reduced firing rate was adopted - from 5,000 to 2,500 rounds. In 1984, in order to ensure more convenient handling of the weapon, the number of notches on the left surface of the bolt casing was increased from ten to thirteen. Since 1988, the lever of the safety lever began to be manufactured using the method of casting in a mold and subsequent processing by milling. Around 1989 the quality of workmanship deteriorated. The shape of the bolt stop lever was gradually simplified. The hammer and trigger also began to be made using the same method. The shape of the front part of the trigger guard was changed, which in the 90s began to be made by casting. In 1993, production of pistols with a cast frame began.

One of the most important advantages of the pistol created by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov is its reliability in the most difficult operating conditions. This quality has been proven not only in tests and during operation in the active army, but also in harsh combat conditions. The first major military conflict in which PM took part, in more or less significant quantities, was the Vietnam War. In the incredibly harsh conditions of war in the jungles of Southeast Asia, the Makarov pistol demonstrated excellent reliability. And then in Afghanistan, with minimal maintenance and sand, the PM worked flawlessly. In the First and Second Chechen Warriors, the Makarov pistol again proved its reliability, not letting down the soldiers of the Russian Army and Internal Troops at the right moment, when the cartridges in the machine gun magazine ran out, or they had to act in close combat. Former and current officers, veterans of the Afghan war and two Chechen companies, who had the opportunity to use their Makarov service pistol in battle, speak something like this: “In those conditions when both the pistol and your hands are all dirty, sometimes after a long absence of any care for weapons, I very much doubt that then some foreign pistol would not have failed, and the PM saved the lives of many of our soldiers.” Of course, when the chamber, the bolt-casing mirror, the grooves of the frame and the bolt-casing, and the ejector spring are heavily clogged with dirt, delays sometimes occur, but most of them are caused by careless handling of the weapon and other shortcomings due to the fault of the owner.

In the early 1990s, as a result of the collapse of the Soviet Union and a significant reduction in government orders for the army and law enforcement agencies, Izhmekh began producing export versions of the Makarov pistol for the civilian arms market. Such pistols were distinguished mainly by the presence of a rear sight adjustable in two planes and enlarged grip cheeks with protrusions for the thumb. By the mid-1990s. new PM variants were presented: IZH-70 chambered for 9×18 cartridge with adjustable rear sight; The IJ70-17A (IZH-70-200), whose production began in 1994, uses the 9mm Short (9×17) cartridge, and its variants IZH-70-100 (chambered 9×18) and IZH-70-300 ( under 9×17) are distinguished by magazines with a capacity of 10 rounds; in 1995, a service version of the PM, created for security structures, was released under the designation IZH-71 chambered for the 9×17 cartridge, produced in various versions, differing in magazine capacity and sighting devices.

In accordance with the Weapons Law issued in 1997, which regulated the use of firearms by private security organizations, Izhmekh launched the production of PM chambered for the 9x17 (9mm Short) cartridge, the bullet energy of which was 20% less than the standard 9x18 cartridge. Such weapons are classified as service weapons. One of the newest variants of the PM is the Baikal-442, which is a sports and training modification of the Makarov pistol chambered for 9×18. The main differences between this weapon and its prototype are the trigger guard with a front protrusion, a wider handle with a protruding diamond-shaped notch on the front and handle cheeks with side protrusions for the shooter’s thumb. Double-row magazine with 10 or 12 rounds. The handle width is 34 mm. As a separate order, it is supplied with a push-button magazine latch located under the slide stop lever and can be equipped with a laser target designator and a micrometric rear sight, adjustable in two planes.

In the Russian Federation, civilians, according to the Weapons Law, since the time of the Bolshevik coup, do not have the right to own short-barreled weapons, unlike many European countries and especially the United States, with civilized and democratic legislation, where Russian pistols are exported and they are relatively free ordinary citizens or those with a residence permit can buy. As a result, for the domestic market, the manufacturer of Makarov pistols and its various variants was forced to develop the following products based on the combat PM: the MP-654K air pistol of 4.5 mm caliber; gas IZH-79-8 and MP-79 chambered for 8 mm cartridge; traumatic 9 mm pistols Izh-79-9T “Makarych” and MP-79-9TM, as well as MP-80-13T chambered for .45 Rubber. Not taking into account the pneumatic pistol for sports training shooting and gas models, which have proven to be extremely ineffective for self-defense, the most popular are traumatic products that shoot rubber balls.

PM became widespread not only in the Warsaw Pact countries, but also in many countries friendly to the Soviet Union, and later throughout the world. Wherever the Makarov pistol was used, its highest reliability and simplicity were noted, as a result of which this weapon became very popular even in the presence of a large selection of much more modern ones and samples from leading arms companies in Europe and the USA. Makarov pistols, in addition to the Soviet Army and law enforcement agencies, were in service and manufactured under license in the GDR, Bulgaria, China and the Dominican Republic. After the unification of Germany, the production of PM was launched by the famous German weapons manufacturer - Simson. Despite all its advantages, by the end of the 1980s the Makarov pistol did not meet the requirements for a personal short-barreled weapon. Due to the widespread use of personal armor protection (PIB) in the armies of most countries of the world and the active activities of terrorist organizations, the weapon had to use a powerful cartridge with a high penetrating and stopping effect of the bullet and have high firepower. In order to create a new, more effective pistol, design work was launched at the “Rook” competition.

A temporary measure to solve this problem was the PMM pistol (Modernized Makarov Pistol) chambered for the 9×18 PMM cartridge with a reinforced powder charge and a lightweight bullet with a steel core and a cone-shaped head. The pistol itself differs from the prototype in the simpler shape of the bolt-casing, enlarged grip cheeks with side protrusions for the thumb, as well as a larger-capacity magazine with a double-row arrangement of cartridges. Compared to the PM, the PMM pistol has higher combat qualities, which, however, are inferior to their Western counterparts. 9x18 PMM cartridges are not interchangeable with standard cartridges and cannot be used in weapons chambered for the 9x18 cartridge. Due to some confusion, problems arose with breakdowns of standard PMs. The PMM is not widely used, and the PYa pistol, which won the Rook competition, cannot yet replace the PM due to financial difficulties. As a result, at present the Makarov pistol still remains a service weapon in the army and police. However, no matter what, the Makarov pistol combines the best qualities of a compact personal short-barreled self-defense weapon. It is compact, very reliable, durable, safe, easy to use and maintain. Despite the small, by modern standards, resource, some PM pistols, mainly produced in the 1960s. with the best workmanship, they have a very large shot and at the same time function reliably.

So the Soviet “Makarovs” in shooting ranges have a fire rate of up to 40,000 rounds. The average lifespan of the recoil spring ranges from 5,000 to 7,000 shots. Modern PMs, as a rule, cannot withstand more than 5000, since they, in fact, are not designed for this. Another example of reliability is that one owner of an old combat PM fired only about 52,000 shots from his pistol without a single delay. With proper experience and training, the pistol demonstrates excellent accuracy, even with standard grip cheeks. For example, the author knows the following result - when shooting at a distance of 25 meters with a series of five shots, when shooting with two hands at a low tempo, with Barnaul cartridges with jacket bullets, the maximum diameter of the group of hits was 60 mm! Even today, with a huge assortment of the latest and highly advanced models from leading manufacturers such as Glock, Beretta, Steyr, Walther, Smith & Wesson and Sig Sauer, many people well versed in weapons choose the proven, trouble-free Makarov pistol to protect their lives.

Countless discussions have been held on the suitability of the Makarov pistol as a compact self-defense weapon. In these disputes, there are usually two dominant sides with opposing opinions. Those who consider the PM not a suitable weapon for such use, given the huge selection of the latest models, cite as seriously substantiated arguments the presence on the arms market of a huge selection of the latest models from leading manufacturers, which are ahead of the Makarov pistol not only in technical and technological terms, but also in the most important in this aspect of use qualities. As a rule, pistols with polymer frames, with double-row or single-row magazines are indicated as a comparison. Note that the length of the PM is 161 mm, and the width is 30.5 mm. Here it is necessary to give a couple of examples. New ultra-thin Walther PPS for 9mm Parabellum with a single-stack magazine for 6, 7 or 8 rounds, having the same length as the PM, but only 23 mm wide! Well-proven Glock 26 of the same caliber, with a double-row magazine with a capacity of 10 or 12 rounds, with a slightly shorter length and width than the PM.

Pistols such as the above are several times superior to the PM in terms of combat and performance qualities, and they all fire the more effective, most widely used 9mm Parabellum cartridges in the world. It is impossible not to agree with such arguments, especially when you know the features of each of the given pistols. Modern models of approximately the same dimensions are much lighter, much more convenient to hold and handle than the PM, and surpass it in shooting accuracy and firepower. Proponents of the advisability of carrying a Makarov pistol for self-defense point to its high reliability in extreme operating conditions and simplicity of design. Arguments are made that it is quite possible to learn to shoot from a PM with very good accuracy if you train enough, that it is quite convenient and not burdensome to carry it secretly, and the effectiveness of the cartridges used has been proven over decades of practical use in law enforcement agencies and the armed forces of Russia and the former USSR.

Even now, when Russian special forces have modern pistols, many prefer the old and proven PM, despite the relatively large length and insufficient smoothness of the trigger, greater weight than modern models and a slightly smaller magazine capacity. However, proponents of the PM generally agree that its cartridge is only effective if the enemy does not use personal protective equipment. After all, even inexpensive modern lightweight Kevlar body armor perfectly protects against PM shots. But here it should be clarified that employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs do not encounter an enemy using NIB, and special forces soldiers have the opportunity to choose weapons for a more powerful and effective cartridge. But why today are Makarov pistols still in very stable and good demand in those countries of the world where citizens have the opportunity to choose any modern compact pistol, like those given as an example? This happens for several reasons. It should be clarified that Makarov pistols are most popular in the Baltic countries, other states that were formerly part of the USSR, as well as in Eastern Europe in general.

Many of those who purchase a Makarov pistol are former law enforcement officers and are very familiar with this weapon, having gotten used to it and having learned to shoot it well. The owner of a Makarov pistol about his weapon: “I have a German PM. Very good pistol! In terms of strength, in my opinion, it is not inferior to, and probably superior to, Izhevsk pistols from the times of the USSR. The quality of surface treatment and bluing is significantly higher than that of production from all those countries in which PM was produced. The finishing of the internal surfaces is excellent. There are no roughnesses or traces of mechanical processing. Firing accuracy is generally the same as that of most PMs.” However, the fundamental factor when purchasing a PM is not only its reliability, but also its low cost. A significantly more affordable price is often the decisive argument. At the same time, almost all leading experts in the field of personal weapons and their use, including the United States, point to an excellent combination of price and quality of the weapon itself. The Makarov pistol provides the buyer with excellent qualities of a compact personal weapon at a very affordable price.

For this reason, PMs are bought both in Western European countries and in the USA, where the level of well-being of the population is higher and people have the opportunity to purchase much more modern, but also more expensive weapons. Don’t forget about the huge selection of pistols in the USA. A resident of California about the popularity of PM: “Makarov is respected in America. I can judge because they don’t linger in our stores; they are quickly bought up, despite the availability of almost anything. I don’t know how it is in other states, it will only appear in our store, after 2-3 days it’s already taken away. In general, there is an opinion here that Russian weapons are reliable.” In addition, the owner of the PM about his pistol: “Of course, I got used to the PM for about two months until I shot it. But now I wear it every day. In the city, that's it. Small, 8 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber, and most importantly, reliable. I'm not afraid that there will be problems with him. Psychologically, it is very important to carry a weapon that you trust.” The Makarov pistol, or as it is now called in the USA - Russian Mak, together with the Kalashnikov assault rifle in the West are the standard of reliable, functional, unpretentious, practical and effective weapons.

An employee of a special unit of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation with extensive combat experience about the Makarov pistol: “Even despite its venerable age, it remains in service today and is actively used both in combat and at the shooting range. A classic pistol for civilian and police use. Of course, this is not a pistol for target or high-speed shooting, but placing three bullets in the center of a standard target (a circle with a diameter of 10 cm) is not a problem for this “old man”. He is capable of more. Some of our PMs allow you to place five holes in a 6 cm circle. As for the low stopping effect of a bullet, I can say that this is said by individuals who, at best, kill paper targets, and have never fired in a combat situation. It is important to hit the vital organs of the “target”, otherwise even a rifle bullet will not guarantee a reliable hit. Some problems are caused by bullets with a steel core Pst, which sometimes ricochet off solid obstacles. In recent years, the situation with ammunition for PM has changed; cartridges with bullets with increased stopping power and increased penetration have appeared. For example, the PPO cartridge for law enforcement agencies allows the use of weapons (pistols and submachine guns) in enclosed spaces, in populated areas, with a low probability of dangerous ricochets, due to the absence of a solid core in the bullet. There is information about the poor quality of PPO cartridges and unstable characteristics, but the cartridges supplied to our unit do not present any unpleasant surprises and the weapon works with them like clockwork...”

Another significant reason for choosing the PM over other pistols in this price category is also the historical value of the Makarov pistol. As, for example, TT or Mosin rifles. But the PM is still, first of all, a reliable compact combat pistol for constant wear in the city, and judging by the reviews, the people who bought it for this purpose are quite satisfied with their purchases. Owners who have appreciated the advantages and qualities of these Russian pistols, including prominent journalists who write articles on weapons for the largest American periodicals on this topic, advise the PM as one of the best options for concealed carry in the class of inexpensive compact models. Currently, not only pistols made in Russia or the former USSR, but also Bulgarian ones or those produced in East Germany are widespread on the arms market. Many experts rate German Makarov pistols as even higher quality than those manufactured in the Soviet Union. Old PM, produced by IZH, before the early 1990s, are especially valued. Such pistols are valued as collector's weapons, but they are also used for carrying and for sport shooting. Currently, the PM remains one of the most popular combat pistols in the world.

Useful tips when purchasing

The first piece of advice is to not purchase a second-hand weapon if you plan to shoot it. Few people will be able to determine by eye the suitability of the mechanism for shooting - such pistols can only be used as training aids for practicing skills in disassembling and assembling weapons.

Secondly, when purchasing an SHP pistol in a store, it is recommended to buy spare magazines and holsters there as well - this will help to develop high-speed shooting skills.

The third tip is that it is recommended to purchase a separate place for storing the pistol. Even though it is not dangerous, and the shot cannot cause barotrauma to the ear, it is not recommended to trust it to strangers, and especially to children.

Any citizen who has reached the age of majority can buy a cooled pistol and ammunition. But at the same time, the citizen acquires some responsibilities for maintaining public order.

Price is the most important trump card of Makarov-SO in comparison with its competitors.

After all, all pistols shoot equally loudly, providing a full cycle of automatic operation. All pistols have weight and dimensional characteristics close to the standard ones. This, by the way, is sometimes blamed on Makarov SO: it is lighter than the “reference” 730 grams. The loss of approximately 20 grams occurs due to the absence of anti-stall ridges on the internal surfaces of the shutter, as a result of which the thickness of the walls of the shutter has decreased and, as a result, its weight has decreased. However, not all firearms satisfy the mass specified in the characteristics. Only PMs produced before 1973 weigh 730 grams (the weight of a pistol with an empty magazine). Since 1973, the weight of pistols has increased by about 25-35 grams due to an increase in the weight of the bolt. PM produced in the 1960s often did not reach the “standard” of 10-20 grams. That is, exactly as much as Makarov-SO does not reach 730 grams. By the way, many buyers are of little interest to the numbers and years of manufacture.

And, what is not unimportant, it does not need to be blued again, or sharpen the crooked “fencing” with a file and sandpaper.

Makarov-SO is often blamed for the lack of clearance in the bore.

Source

Pneumatic Makarov pistol Borner PM49

A copy of the famous Makarov pistol from the American company Borner. The Borner PM49 air pistol is equipped with a double mechanism: self-cocking or manual pre-cocking of the trigger is possible. The Borner PM49 trigger has two strokes: a soft preliminary stroke and a harder working stroke. The caliber of the weapon is 4.5 mm, and the magazine capacity is 17 bullets (BB steel balls). In this pistol the bolt frame is fixed .

Pneumatic pistol Borner PM49

Double-action trigger, you can shoot either “self-cocking” or by cocking the hammer before each shot. In the latter case, the trigger stroke will be softer. The trigger has two strokes - preliminary (soft) and working (a little harder).

Sights like the original. There is a non-glare strip between them, the quality of which is sometimes complained about.

Pneumatic Makarov pistol Baikal MP-654K-20

A popular gas-cylinder analogue of the Makarov pistol . An ideal weapon for gaining initial skills in handling weapons and having fun shooting.

The appearance of the weapon, mechanical strength, structural reliability, ease of handling and the quality of manufacturing and assembly of all parts and assemblies of the weapon are identical to the PM. The trigger mechanism of the pistol allows firing both self-cocking and with pre-cocking. When the weapon is put on safety with the hammer cocked, the hammer is safely released, similar to the prototype. This model comes with a black handle, or with an updated brown handle.

Pneumatic pistol Makarov MP-654K-20 updated handle

Pneumatic pistol Makarov MP-654K black handle

The firing device - the magazine, the valve and the carbon dioxide cartridge form a single separate unit, which is inserted into the handle, similar to the magazine. For shooting, steel spherical bullets are used, 8 or 12 gram CO2 cans of domestic and foreign production are used.

Pneumatic Makarov pistol Gletcher PM 1951

Gletcher PM 1951 air - 2015 model from Gletcher. Gletcher PM 1951 is a copy of the legendary Soviet Makarov pistol. This version is equipped with a blowback system. The pistol body is made of metal alloy.

The case is strong, resistant to shocks and damage, reliable, since its material is a high-quality metal alloy. The bolt and internal parts are also made of metal. The barrel of this PM model is smooth. The model has a black color, in addition to the handle, which is made of brown plastic. The handle is practical and fits firmly in the palm of your hand thanks to the material and design. In terms of dimensions, Gletcher is quite compact and has a length of 16.0 cm and a weight of 0.74 kg.

the Gletcher PM 1951 pistol is full-size and holds ammunition and an energy source. A carbon dioxide canister acts as a power source. Its volume of 12 grams is enough to fire up to 60 shots. The product's magazine holds 16 ammunition in the form of explosive steel balls with a caliber of 4.5 mm. When shooting, the speed of the ball is 100 m/sec.

Air pistol Gletcher PM 1951

The power and range of the pistol are not very high - this weapon is designed for shooting at targets from a short distance. The model will be effective at 10-20 meters, further - even in calm weather the accuracy increases significantly. At a 10-meter distance, the bullets will lie in a circle with a diameter of about 4-5 cm, and will be able to pierce a through hole in a glass bottle.