[boogalou]

I've owned a couple of Makarov's in 9x18 over the last few years and sold them because I was looking to buy something else. I'm thinking about getting a russian one in .380 because I have all the reloading stuff for that caliber. Does anyone have any experience with the russian .380 Mak vrs the bulgarian 9x18? Any differences in reliability/accuracy between the two?

[dairycreek]

It has been a fine, little, gun as Maks almost always are. No problems at all and it just putts right along. FWIW - Good shooting;)

[Teakwood]

The Russain IJ70-17 (9x17) is every bit as good as the IJ70-18 (9x18). The only difference is the barrel.

If you are intent on a .380, I might suggest looking for a commercial Bulgarian in that caliber. These were imported several years ago under the Arsenal and Miltex brand. Frankly, they typically have a nicer finish than the Russian IJ70-17.

[J. Parker]

I've got a Russian Mak in 380 and it's been 100% reliable with all ammo. Sweet little pistol.:)

[rde]

I've heard (course you know what that means..anyway) the finish on the Russians are not very durable. But I've never heard (course..again..you know what that means) of anyone having any problems with its function (quite good).

BTW..I have one of those commercial bulgarian 380's under the arsenal brand. This has a good and durable finish and looks very nice. Shoots perfectly. Is extremely accurate. Will never get rid of it. Have been looking for another one for a long time.

And keeping with tradition I must put in a plug for the Bersa in the 380 category. Better sights for my aging eyes.

[Man-O-War]

I had a Russian Mak in .380. It was 100% reliable, never had a malfunction of any kind. In a moment of weakness, I sold several guns to finance a more expensive gun. I have regretted selling that Mak ever since.

[denfoote]

It was my first carry gun and the only gun I have ever drawn to defend my home and family. I still have it and still carry it sometimes!!

Good pistol!! To bad you can't get them any more...thanks to Vladimir Klintinov!!

[Clean97GTI]

I own a commercial Bulgarian (Arsenal brand imported by Miltex) in .380 and have no complaints other than the factory grip. A makawrap cured that easily enough.
The finish is excellent and the gun has never failed to fire or eject/load. It is my daily carry. I keep it stoked with Winchester Supreme SXT's. She is carried in DA mode with safety off. That long, heavy first pull makes a great safety.