Milsurp Pistol I Traded Up For -- 1961 Pistole M East German Makarov

Published on March 16, 2025
Duration: 16:41

This video reviews the East German Makarov pistol, acquired through a trade. The presenter details its historical development, comparing it to the TT-33 and noting its design similarities to the Walther PPK. Range performance with Hornady Critical Defense ammunition at 50 yards is discussed, along with ballistics in 10% gel. The review highlights the Makarov's ease of manufacture, maintenance, and training, while acknowledging its low capacity and the 9x18mm cartridge's perceived underpowered status.

Quick Summary

The 1961 East German Makarov pistol is lauded for its simple design, featuring only 25 parts for easy manufacturing and maintenance. While its 8+1 capacity and 9x18mm cartridge are noted limitations, its reliability and quality of construction, particularly from East German production, make it a desirable milsurp firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:0150 Yard Range Test Setup
  2. 00:45Introduction to the Makarov Pistol
  3. 01:33Sponsorship Acknowledgment: Clear Ballistics
  4. 02:07Viewer Question: Unpurchased Milsurp
  5. 02:51Acquisition: East German Makarov Trade
  6. 03:05The Trade Story
  7. 03:49Trade Details: S&W Model 19-5
  8. 04:13Included Accessories: Holsters
  9. 04:37Development of the Makarov Pistol
  10. 05:01Historical Context: 1895 Nagant Revolver
  11. 05:30Introduction of the TT-33 Tokarev
  12. 06:27Post-WWII Soviet Military Modernization
  13. 07:03The 9x18mm Cartridge Origin
  14. 07:37Advantages of the Makarov Design
  15. 08:46Downsides: Capacity and Cartridge Power
  16. 09:13Design Similarities to Walther PPK
  17. 10:06Why an East German Makarov?
  18. 11:01East German Production Years (1959-1965)
  19. 11:23Included Holsters Detailed
  20. 11:53Range Experience & Reliability
  21. 12:20Downside: Low Sights
  22. 12:2650 Yard Accuracy Test
  23. 13:21Ballistics Testing: 9x18mm in Gel
  24. 14:20Custom Holster: Rose Leather Works
  25. 14:59Overall Reliability & Fun Factor
  26. 15:13Ergonomic Adjustment Needed
  27. 15:39Conclusion & Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key advantages of the Makarov pistol's design?

The Makarov pistol is praised for its ease of manufacture, with only 25 parts, making it simple to produce and maintain. It's also easy to field strip and train soldiers on, contributing to its widespread adoption by Soviet bloc forces.

How does the 9x18mm Makarov cartridge perform in ballistics testing?

In 10% Clear Ballistics gel, the 9x18mm Makarov cartridge, specifically Hornady Critical Defense 95-grain FTX, achieved 10 inches of penetration and expanded well. However, this penetration depth is considered by some to be potentially underpowered for self-defense applications.

What are the main drawbacks of the Makarov pistol?

The primary drawbacks of the Makarov pistol include its limited magazine capacity of 8+1 rounds and the 9x18mm cartridge's perceived lack of power compared to Western calibers. Additionally, the pistol features low-profile sights, which can be a challenge for accurate shooting at longer distances.

Why is the East German Makarov considered desirable?

East German Makarovs, produced from 1959 to 1965, are often sought after for their quality of manufacture, reflecting German engineering standards. The 1961 model specifically benefits from having had earlier production bugs worked out, offering a refined example of the design.

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