Is a Makarov a good gun for concealed carry?

Published on March 15, 2016
Duration: 12:01

The Makarov pistol, a Russian-designed firearm similar to the Walther PP, is evaluated for concealed carry. Its 9x18mm Makarov caliber offers power between .380 ACP and 9mm Luger. While featuring a European-style heel magazine release and a slide-mounted decocker, a critical safety warning highlights the free-floating firing pin, necessitating carrying with the safety engaged.

Quick Summary

The Makarov pistol is chambered in 9x18mm Makarov, offering power between .380 ACP and 9mm Luger. It's considered a reliable concealed carry option, but a critical safety warning exists: its free-floating firing pin requires carrying with the safety engaged to prevent accidental discharge if dropped.

Chapters

  1. 00:14Introduction to the Makarov Pistol
  2. 01:02Understanding the 9x18mm Makarov Caliber
  3. 02:54Makarov vs. Walther PP Design Comparison
  4. 04:26Safety and Decocker Operation Explained
  5. 05:07How to Field Strip the Makarov
  6. 06:22Range Performance and Accuracy Test
  7. 08:02Is the Makarov Suitable for Concealed Carry?
  8. 09:01Critical Safety Warning: Firing Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Makarov pistol, and how does it compare to other common handgun rounds?

The Makarov pistol is chambered in 9x18mm Makarov. This cartridge is shorter and wider than the 9x19mm Parabellum and is not interchangeable. Its power level is generally considered to be between that of the .380 ACP and the 9mm Luger.

What are the key differences between the Makarov and the Walther PP pistol?

While similar, the Makarov features a different grip angle, an external manual slide stop, and a European-style heel magazine release. Its slide-mounted safety/decocker operates with 'up' for safe and 'down' for fire, which can be intuitive for some shooters.

Is the Makarov considered a reliable firearm for concealed carry?

Yes, the Makarov is deemed a reliable carry choice, particularly German and Bulgarian variants, which are noted for their quality construction and dependability for self-defense.

What is the most critical safety concern when carrying a Makarov pistol?

The most critical safety concern is the free-floating firing pin. Because there is no firing pin spring, a drop could potentially cause a discharge if the safety is not engaged. It is strongly recommended to always carry the Makarov with the safety 'on'.

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