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makarov defence

ghost614ghost614 Member Posts: 129 ✭✭✭
edited June 2002 in Ask the Experts
does anyone know how makarov pistols stand out as self defence pieces? i was just looking at some and was wondering if they were any good as a primary gun.
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Comments

  • Der GebirgsjagerDer Gebirgsjager Member Posts: 1,673 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Oddly, the Russians think enough of it to issue it as their standard military pistol; but by western standards it is a little anemic, falling between a .380 ACP and a 9mm Parabellum in power. If your defense weapon is to be carried openly I would opt for something larger. If it is to be kept in the nightstand or similar I'd opt for something larger. If you are going to carry concealed it is a reasonable choice, but a .357 snubbie or one of the compact .45's would be preferable.
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  • NighthawkNighthawk Member Posts: 12,022 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Shot placement is the single most important issue.Myself I want carry nothing below a .38special or a 9mm. But I wouldnt want to be looking domn the wrong end of a Makarov.


    Good Shooting.

    Rugster
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  • rballirballi Member Posts: 770 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    It's better than nothing! The Mak is a good reliable weapon. They are a little on the heavy side, but functionality is great. If you are thinking about getting one because they are inexpensive, don't. The ammo is kinda hard to find other than on the internet and at gun shows. For about the same money, you can find a different gun with easier to find ammo. For example, you can find a good used Taurus revolver in just about any flavor for about $150. Police trade in S&W 38's can also be found for about the same money. You can usually find a good used ruger 9mm semi-auto for around $250. The Mak can also be found in 380 if you are lucky. If you are set on the Mak 'look' there are Bersa 380's for about $199 new. Also, the same places that usually sell the Maks also can get PA-63's in 380 for about $100.

    The 9x18 makarov I think carries more punch than the 380.

    Hope this helps a little.
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  • joeaf1911a1joeaf1911a1 Member Posts: 2,962 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Although I am a firm believer in the .45 auto, I picked up a Russian
    Mak in .380 about 7 years ago, NIB with 3 mags for $138.00. A very
    nice, flat, carry gun. It eats all types of ammo including my lead
    reloads with no problems. With full adjustable rear site and a D.A.feature its a winner. Its a bit heavy, being all steel, and
    a .45 it aint, but you cant have everything.
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  • ghost614ghost614 Member Posts: 129 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    thanks for all the help guys, my curiousity has been throughly satisfied.
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  • JustCJustC Member Posts: 16,056 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    and Wolf ammunition is available for it, for around $100/1000rnds.

    A great rifle with a junk scope,....is junk.
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  • ranahanranahan Member Posts: 38 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Ammo for the Mak hard to find? I guess it depwnds on where you live.
    Tucson and Phoenix seem to have lots. It's CHEAP and everywhere.

    ranahan
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