Load Testing Results - 9x18 Makarov

[JonB]

Finally got to the range to test 2 different load work ups in my Bulgarian Makarov.
First load:
Powder: Titegroup
Charge: 3.3gr start to 3.6gr max
Bullet: 93gr MBC HiTek coated
COL: 0.970

Best Loads:
3.4 gr / 10 shots


3.6gr / 10 shots


All of the Titegroup loads were pretty good. Very sooty cases on the lower end, so I think more powder burned better.


Second Load
Powder: AA#5
Charge: 5.0gr to 5.5gr
Bullet: 95gr Berry's Plated
COL: 0.966

5.2gr / 10 shots


5.3 gr /10 shots


5.4 gr / 10 shots (one flyer - my fault)



I am liking this pistol - easy to shoot, low recoil, accurate. The only thing I fumble with is the heel mag release.

 

[Tejano_UT]

Thanks for posting. My EG Makarov does well with essentially the same bullets you used and 3.7 to 3.9 gr. of Unique.

 

[JonB]

I need to load some AA#5 with the MBC coated bullets and Titegroup with the Berry's plated - basically same loads, but flip-flop the bullet choice.

But, a 7 shot ragged hole with AA#5 is pretty good in my book. The Titegroup 3.4gr was good, but quite dirty/unburned powder so I am going with 3.6gr.

I replaced the recoil spring with a Wolff 19# and the cases fly over my head and land behind me a few feet (probably bouncing off the back wall of the range) so I was able to recover 92 of the 95 cases. Not bad, especially since I convert 9mm Parabellum cases to 9x18. Saves a lot of case prep work.

 

[joneb]

I've loaded 93 gr LRN with Bullseye, W-231 and Accurate #5 for a EG Mak. the W-231 worked the best for me, I'd like to find some Accurate #2 to try.

The only thing I fumble with is the heel mag release

Same here the Soviet's didn't want to accidentally release the magazine Great guns.