P-64 Polish 9x18 Makarov Pistol Review

The Polish Radom P-64 is an affordable 9x18 Makarov pistol, often found under $200, offering extreme reliability and simple maintenance. While compact and thin, making it suitable for concealed carry, it suffers from sharp recoil, a low capacity, and a very heavy factory double-action trigger. Modifications with Wolff springs can significantly improve trigger pull.

This review compares the CZ 82 (military 9x18 Makarov) and CZ 83 (commercial .380 ACP). Both feature all-steel construction and DA/SA triggers, with interchangeable magazines. The CZ 82 boasts a polygonal barrel and ambidextrous controls, while the CZ 83 offers slightly higher capacity in .380 ACP. Chronograph tests show minimal velocity difference, but the 9x18 Makarov has more felt recoil.

The Polish PM63 Rak is reviewed as a machine pistol with significant ergonomic and operational flaws. Its reciprocating slide ejects debris, and the sights are difficult to use due to movement. The progressive trigger makes semi-automatic fire challenging, often leading to unintended full-auto bursts. Compared to other machine pistols like the Skorpion, the PM63 is ranked lower due to poor handling and distracting mechanics.

The Hungarian FEG AP pistol, a near-exact replica of the Walther PP, offers significant value as a surplus firearm, often found for around $220. While the AP model is in .32 ACP, the PA-63 variant is chambered in 9x18 Makarov. The pistol features a heavy double-action trigger but is noted for its reliability and minimal recoil, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.

The Polish Vis 35, also known as the WZ 35 or P.35(p) under German occupation, is a highly regarded 9mm military pistol from WWII. It features a unique internal design, a grip safety, and a hammer-drop safety (decocker). Despite its historical significance and excellent ergonomics, it has three main production variants with differing features like take-down levers and stock cuts.

The Polish P-83 Wanad is a 9x18mm handgun offering a budget-friendly option at around $219.95, often bundled with a leather flap holster and two magazines. While inspired by the Makarov, it has distinct differences in magazine compatibility and disassembly. Its 9x18mm caliber is viable for self-defense with modern ammunition, and its double-action trigger is smoother than the P-64's.

This video offers an extensive tour of Classic Firearms' warehouse, showcasing a vast array of surplus and imported firearms. Key highlights include Beretta 92S pistols, Zastava M57 Tokarevs with unique import safeties, and various European pistols like Hungarian FEGs, Makarovs, Nagant revolvers, and CZ models. The tour also covers classic rifles such as the Lee-Enfield and modern AR-15 components, alongside ample ammunition and accessories.

The M-1 Carbine in .30 caliber is a lightweight and maneuverable rifle with a rich history, serving from WWII through Vietnam. Despite its smaller round compared to the .30-06, it offers high capacity and manageable recoil, making it a viable home defense option today. Its design by Winchester, incorporating features from 'Carbine' Williams and Ed Browning, resulted in over 6.5 million units produced by various manufacturers.

The Ideal Conceal IC380 is a unique .380 ACP pistol designed to resemble a smartphone when folded, offering deep concealment. While its double-action trigger is heavy (around 11 lbs 15 oz) and accuracy is limited to close distances, its primary advantage is its discreet appearance. It functions as a two-shot derringer and includes safety features like inaccessible triggers when closed and firing pin blocks.

Glock's enduring popularity stems from its reliability, simplicity, and value, making it a dominant force in the handgun market for decades. Its widespread adoption by law enforcement, robust polymer construction, and high magazine capacity contribute to its reputation. While other firearms may offer more refined features, Glock's combination of price, durability, and consistent performance remains a compelling choice for many shooters.