Project PRAK: Converting the CZ50 Pistol to 9x18mm Makarov

Published on October 31, 2025
Duration: 0:58

This guide outlines the process of converting a CZ Model 50 pistol to 9x18mm Makarov, as demonstrated in Project PRAK. It details the external restamping of caliber markings and internal barrel modifications. The project involved extensive testing, firing 3500 rounds, but was ultimately discontinued. Expert instruction highlights the gunsmithing involved in this historical Czech experiment.

Quick Summary

Project PRAK was a Czech experimental program to convert CZ Model 50 pistols to 9x18mm Makarov. This involved grinding and restamping the slide, and fitting a new barrel with visible hand-fitting marks. Extensive testing with 3500 rounds revealed issues, leading to the project's abandonment by October 1966.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project PRAK Introduction
  2. 00:07CZ 50 Conversion Goal
  3. 00:17External Conversion Markings
  4. 00:27Internal Barrel Modification
  5. 00:37Firing Trials and Issues
  6. 00:46Project Abandonment

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Project PRAK?

Project PRAK was a Czech experimental initiative aimed at converting existing CZ Model 50 pistols to fire the 9x18mm Makarov cartridge. The project involved significant gunsmithing, including modifying the barrel and restamping the slide markings.

How was the CZ Model 50 converted to 9x18mm Makarov?

The conversion involved grinding off the original caliber marking on the CZ Model 50 slide and restamping it with a "9" for 9x18mm Makarov. Internally, a new barrel was fitted, showing hand-fitting and grind marks from the gunsmithing process.

What were the results of the Project PRAK firing trials?

During firing trials for Project PRAK, a total of 3500 rounds were fired through the converted CZ Model 50 pistols. The project encountered a series of different problems throughout the testing phase.

Was the CZ Model 50 9x18mm Makarov conversion adopted?

No, the CZ Model 50 conversion project was not adopted. By October 1966, testing was completed, conclusions were reached, and the decision was made not to pursue this conversion further.

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