Makarov as a main battle sidearm

[JohnKSa]

The M9 is much easier for many people to shoot due to much less recoil.

Shame on the military for issuing the troops a gun that is much easier to shoot, holds twice as many rounds and is much better at penetrating body armor!

Sort of like in Vietnam when we issued our troops a new cartridge (5.56) that was such a poor performer that the Russians almost immediately copied it.

You want to talk politics? Research the story of how the M14 (a gun the rest of the world rejected) was chosen over the FAL (a rifle adopted by nearly 100 countries during its service life). Or how various people did their level best to sabotage the M16--even after it had been issued to our troops.

 

[cls12vg30]

Turning the conversation back to the Makarov, it is a bit bulkier and heavier than some other pistols of similar power, since its straight blowback design requires the slide to have significant mass.
In my experience the beautiful simplicity of the design is well worth that bit of extra mass. A semi-auto pistol composed of only 27 parts total, no doubt it's going to be reliable.

 

[David4516]

Is it the best choice? probably not, but it is a gun that has NEVER jammed and it has acceptable power, so it is a VERY GOOD choice

That is exactly how I feel.

As I type this, I have in the desk drawer to my right a loaded Makarov. This is my choice of personal defense pistol because I can depend on it, it won't let me down.

The Mak is a fine handgun that is well suited to concealed carry or home defense.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Ok fellas simmer down ...I didn't mean to start a Peein contest about the 1911. I've been out for a long time. I'm old fashioned and hard headed.
You know what they say about opinions, Right? Maybe I put too much stock in what old soldiers have told me.

I almost forgot how touchy folks can be ...

Back to the topic>>>>

The Mak is a fine weapon and I carry one occasionally. I have confidence in it as a personal defense weapon at typical close range engagments.
I however don't beleive it is adequate as a primary battle weapon where ranges can increase. Mine are sufficiently accurate to routinely put hits on a B27? silouette at 50 yards. But I doubt the rounds effectiveness at that range.

That is why I beleive the PM was designed and intended to be a close up last ditch weapon.