I have a Bulgarian Makarov I purchased about 6 years ago. It had never been fired and the grease in the magazines had hardened to a rubbery consistency. I cleaned it up and purchased 5 boxes of ammo and went to my outdoor range. After putting the 5 boxes through the thing I have determined that this pistol may be the best bargain in pistols. Reliable as a Glock, really great trigger, and really easy to shoot. I have since purchased a stainess steel Russian model in 380. It has all the great characteristics of the Bulgarian, and super pretty to boot. However - I can tell the difference in power between the 9x18 and 380. The 9x18 is noticeably punchier on impact. If you are looking for a great carry pistol with great reliability, trigger, and a real safety to boot - there is no better bargain in my opinion. A lot like the Bersa Thunder 380 but a bit sexier as it is a real military combat pistol. Just my 3 cents.
I totally agree with you. I have a Makarov from about 2 or 3 years and its my everyday carry. I live in an area where they are potential robbers or even worse so yeah when i got my makarov i know im ready for anything
Hi from the UK. Just to say thanks for keeping us up to date with these excellent videos. Having spent several years in the UK military services, I miss the freedom of going to the range and letting off a few rounds. I envy your freedom. Keep up the good work.
My husband decided to take my Bulgarian Mak on a kayaking trip. Well, the kayak got tipped and we lost her in the river. I just picked up a new one today and I'm so happy. I'm not the best shot with most guns, but I was very surprised when I was hitting targets pretty far off with my mak. As a beginner shooter who doesn't get much target practice I can vouch that this is a very accurate gun. I love it and feel really safe with it. Before loosing our other one we carried it everywhere especially while hiking and camping in the woods. So glad to have another one I hope we never part again!
First - cheers from Bulgaria! Second - most likely this one is made for or sold to the Ministry of Defence of Slovenia according to you technical manual. Have a nice day and stay safe.
I just put a down payment on an East German Makarov, one of the nicest little guns I have seen in a long time, getting it for $350 with two mags, an East German police marked holster and a 50 rounds box of ammo.
I GOT ONE FOR 300 BUCKS IT DONT MISS A BEAT I SHOT OFF 16 ROUNDS WITH IT 350 NOT BAD THOUGH THEY GOING TO GO UP ON THEM I AM GOING TO KEEP MINE FOR WHEN THEY DO BUT I MIGHT KEEP IT BULLETS ARE CHEAP TO
Got an East German Makarov when they first imported them. I think I paid $125 to a gun dealer friend. Beautifully machined and finished in a deeply polished blue. The front of the grip is etched "Ernst Thaelmann Mod. M 9mm IACO Sacca, Germany". I'm never going to sell it.
I picked up a Russian Makarov for a$100 dollars a few years back for a back up to my duty weapon. It actually had adjustable rear sight. Once we shot mine several guys went out and bought one for their back up.Combat Accuracy and No Jams. Easy to tear down and clean.
I’ve had my Bulgarian for several years now. It was my primary ccw for a very long time. Still love shooting it. It is a must to paint the front sight, preferably in a night sight kind of paint.
I heard that the East German by the Ernst Thälhmann were the best made and the most desirable. Which is the one I have made in 1961 and it's freakin beautiful.
GOT ME ONE FOR 300 THEY GOING TO GO UP THOUGH BUT I THINK I WILL KEEP IT DONT MISS A BEAT AND IT CAN BE RAN OVER BY TRUNK IN MUD AND WATER AND STILL SHOOT ON PIONT ITS ON THE TORTURE TEST ON YUTUBE FOR MAKAROV
I don't follow every model of every firearm from every maker so what may be casual and obvious info to you is many times news to many of us. That is why I follow your channel. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and information. Good job guys.
Academy Sports generally carries 9x18 so it isn't very hard to find. I ran across a bunch of Silver Bear hollow points for a dirt cheap price a few years ago so I've run a lot of it through mine and have never had any feeding issue. They are not exactly high-tech, but they sure do work.
Hey Hickok45, thanks for the great video on the Makarov. I just acquired one recently myself. It is an IMEZ Russian Makarov with the adjustable rear sight and the target like grip with thumb and index finger grooves. From my research it seems the pure military models seem to be the most desired. Personally I like the adjustable rear sight. I do not plan to carry it concealed or otherwise. I like taking my guns to the range and looking for that perfect target with all rounds in the same hole. Well on my first outing to the outdoor range I set my target at about 30 feet from the shooting stand. When adjusting sights i always load my mags up with 3 rounds each. Well you could have slapped me in the mouth when i found on almost every group I was putting two out of three rounds in the same hole. Wow......i was shooting better with this new ( to me ) handgun than I used to shoot with my beloved M-1911A1 and my Detonics Combat Master. It took a little while to get my shot group to move as the elevation screw on the rear sight was backed out so far my adjustments were making no difference. By the time it was getting dark out I fully loaded 2 mags. First full mag made one big ragged hole about 1" above dead center. Second mag was big hole in center of the Ten ring . I was shooting sitting on a stool with 2 hand hold with hands resting flat on the shooting table. No sandbags. Are these Makarovs all this accurate or did I just get lucky on a day the Range Gods were smiling on me. Oh, by the way. One of my 3 round groups WAS 3 rounds in the same hole.
I just love ya! I was so afraid of guns only because I didn't know anything about them and I knew a few ppl who were careless with them. I started watching you several years ago and learned about them and how to properly use one (Cooper). I bought my first gun because of you and I totally enjoy using it at the range. I'm hopeful to one day buy a second...Makarov. Thank you. Blessings to you.
michael johnson If I was to assign a sex to any firearm, they would all be female. They accept the phallic bullets and when handled properly are a joy to behold. So no children would realistically be possible. I just meant that is what the Mak looks like to me. A cross between the PPK and CZ 75. Just a turn a phase.
+Arbhall McDougall CZ75 has nothing common with this gun. Nothing. It is completely different. Different size, different slide, different locking mech, different shape.. Absolutely nothing. Only simillar CZ guns are the CZ50/CZ70, CZ83/ CZ vz.82
xmeda Not even that super comfortable grip? Would you feel less offended if I suggested it looked more the grip on a Hi Point? You could also ask which model Im referring too couldnt you?
+Arbhall McDougall Not even grip. Have you ever seen CZ75 yet?? I have it disassembled for cleaning on table right now. And Cz vz. 82 next to it.. Makarov has single-piece grip with different size and shape. Nothing common with CZ75 other than both are self loading pistols.
The first thing I did when I got mine, was ordered the proper red star grips and a spare magazine. They both showed up today. I'm having an extra birffday today, sent 250 rounds at the range this afternoon to celebrate!!
They are over the $350.00 price point now, that is of your lucky enough to find one at that price. Wish I never sold mine years ago, gonna get another. One of the best firearms on the world IMO.
Thanks Hickock. Great video. Back in the mid-90s, I worked evenings at a gun store after working days as a correctional caseworker. We sold a ton of Makarovs from throughout the old Warsaw Pack and Soviet Union. I believe they went for around $119. By comparison, we had Russian capture Walther P-38s for around $200. The Cold War had ended just 5-6 years prior and the deals in surplus arms seemed like they would never end. Another Cold War bargain was the Spanish Basque manufactured 9x19mm Star BM. I did get the Star. Now I wish I had picked up a Mak or two, and a Walther.
Another great video Hickok. I remember when these were cheap too (and im not nearly as old as you ;) I kinda knew all this Russian/combloc surplus would go up in price. It always was remarkable how cheap they were for the quality of the firearms. I had a feeling that wouldnt last. Theyre simple but not bad nor cheaply made.
7-4-2020. I own one of these Bulgarian Makarovs and just love it. I modified mine with a tactical grip that changes the mag release from the heel of the butt to the top left of the grip. I also sent the slide to Novak Sights to have a high vizability/Tritium set installed for my aging eyes to focus on. Best small gun I ever bought and is very accurate.
I received my Bulgarian Arsenal Makarov on Sept 7th and spent a good part of the next day cleaning the cosmoline out of the gun. My Mak cleaned up really well and the barrel was very clean. I purchased my gun from Classic Firearms for $299.00. I received two mags and two different grips. I cant wait to get on the range with this cold war beauty to compare it to my Sig P226, and Glock 19. For the money I really like the feel of the gun in my hands.
I know this is am old video but I felt I needed to weigh in. We have as Red Connection, x2 polish made p64s, a cz82, and a bulgarian makarov. Absolutely love the 9x18mm. All very well accurate weapons up to 25 meters. The available of makarov copies are starting to become more scarce. The best way to acquire magazines is to get in touch with folks like us. We keep I'm contact with russian vendors on Vk. I really recommend any 9mm enthusiast to own one. You won't regret having a makarov. This was a pretty good video, keep up the good work. Ura comrades!
In Bulgaria one magazine for this gun is 10$,and one box of ammo is around 17$. But if you going to the Arsenal Bulgaria you can buy ammo for around 8-9$ for box.
I always carry MP (Makarov Pistol) as my back up gun while on duty. Extremely reliable and pretty powerful weapon for some certain tasks. Better stopping power than Walter PPK .380 and less penetration than my regular sidearm Beretta92F.
In the army, My crew had to carry a box with 10 Makarovs in our self-propelled howitzer, in any drills we had. Once after we drove in a very hilly place had to stop and start shooting with a howitzer for time. The box with Mkarovs had detached and when we turned the turret to aim we smashed the whole box with the guns. It perforated one fuel tank.Then we had to sleep in the howitzer. It was winter and we are soaked in fuel in the morning. . Nobody was interested in the Makarovs we are shooting 122mm shells. Damn Makarovs I did not think someone will appreciate them so much. 122 mm Self-propelled howitzers were also Bulgarian production Russian models. Very good ones . They used them in the last war in Syria. Bulgaria was used by USSR to produce and sell weapons to all pro-communist states from Vietnam, Angola, Ethiopia ,Syria,Iraq and etc. The state company TEREM producing weapons and small arms had 30 factories The export company was called ''Kintex''' It started with shiploads for Vietnam. As small concealed arms, they developed keyholders with 2 bullets. It was called OSA
10:26 "Republic of Slovenia Ministry of Defense TECHNICAL BOOKLET classification group: 010101010105 Title: Pistol, 9mm Registered factory number (serial number): NH 2946C" It's more of a booklet that the military uses to keep track of when and to whom the weapon was issued, how many rounds were discharged on a particular day, etc.
I am from Bulgaria. And I am glad to watch a video where you mention us. The crazy thing is that our police officers in the whole country use Makarov pistols Only. The special forces use Glock 17, mp5 and G36.
Cool vid Sir... I was just watching a video about an after market grip modification with an elongated duckbill for comfort as well as safety from the Mak blowback ....after the installation of the grip it turns the mag release from bottom to side release...just something you might want to look into for your personal Mak for an edc option ...thank you for uploading..tae care
I purchased a Bulgarian Makarov in 2000 with the same grip combo you have. It was in like new condition. I purchased it for just over $100 at the time.
Hickok, it is a Slovenian service pistol. The technical manual ( Tehnicka Knjizica) is from the Slovenian Republic Ministry of Defense (Republika Slovenia Ministarstvo za Obrambo), and a Slovenian coat of arms. The pistols were imported into Slovenia from Bulgaria during the wars in former Yugoslavia to provide the newly independent Slovenia with small arms.
+oahu kane Actually goes back further than that. I bought my Model 29 .44 Magnum there at a gun show in 1974. Don't know where they get the "35" years. Government entities are becoming more and more out of step with citizens; at the very time when fireams are becoming more and more popular and mainstream, anti gun / anti freedom governments are trying to go the other way and find any reason they can come up with to weaken the 2nd Amendment.
+hickok45 I don't live i your area, I'am SW Virginia, and the gun shows here are going away too. There used to be 2 a year 15 miles from were I live, about 2 years ago they cut them back to 1 a year, this year they moved it to a little place that you can't hardly move in, and its 30 miles from were I'am at. So this happening every where I guess. Thanks for all the great videos.
+JJw650 jones I live out in Appalachia, near the TN/NC border. We have gun shows round here several times a year near Waynesville, and Franklin. My anti-gun professors at college always love to hear me talk about going to gun shows heheh. I was once asked by a Prof what I would do if someone was shooting at me. I told him I'd probably grab my AK47 and shoot back. He freaked out LOL
***** The professor was kind of shocked and didn't know what to say. However, a classmate gasped when I said that and said "You can own one of those?!". I responded with "Yes you can, I own two. I usually shoot them on my Sunday School Teacher's property". That classmate seemed horrified for the rest of the class for some reason and didn't want to talk to me.
+turbostewi you'll be impressed of our firearms. But! If you read our Firearm Law - you'll be disappointed too, because we have to make a license for a 12 G gun for a hunt, and if you're want to buy a rifle for example in .22 LR caliber - you have to go to the Department licensing and permitting work of the Ministry of internal Affairs
The CZ has a double stack mag that's just a better magazine overall, and a better mag release. The makarov safety de-cocks and really locks the gun up. Both are great and just eat everything you put in them. Diff is capacity and better mag vs better safety and more parts and aftermarket.
This is funny, I watched the Russian Mak video from Nov 23, 2012 just last night. Nice little gun, I am buying one for sure...too cheap to pass up and like you said, a nice piece of history. Thanks the great timing on this video, educational and entertaining as usual.
Bought a Russian Mak for $50 bucks in 1988. Never once had a FTF or misfire. Just bought a Bulgy Mak for $280. Covered in Cosmoline. I have some work to do. These are not in same class as CZ 82 or CZ 83 (got one of these too), but they are among the most rugged semi-autos ever made. Accurate and reliable. Exactly what you need for CCW.
I noticed that the manual is on Slovenian langue. Slovenia is former republic of Yugoslavia, where I served in military force (JNA) and as I recoil, this gun wasn't Yugoslav military firearm.
+hickok45 I really love the nostalgia of these old surplus war horses! Is there any chance of you being able to review a Star Super B 9mm? The cheap 1911Knock off???
Hickok, I just got a beautiful (and I mean really beautiful) Henry 30-30 with an amazing American walnut stock and checkering and I got on to see what your thoughts were on it and to my surprise you don't have a video on one?!? What the what? Please get your hands on one and do a review!! Love your videos and thanks for making them!
As a recommendation for those interested in carrying a Makarov for CC, I'd avoid the hollowpoints - the 9x18 round has mediocre penetration as it is, and adding a hollowpoint to the mix is bad news. I recommend a hard-cast round, such as the one Buffalo Bore makes. They're pricey, but being absolutely certain that your round will perform as you want it to is worth the extra money. Also, a higher weight recoil spring is a good idea too - not that the recoil is at all difficult, but tends to function better with a heavier spring.
I always loved this gun and the incredible sleek style and fixed barrel performance / accuracy. It's a brilliant and elegant design to say the lest. The bullets are so dainty and cute I always wanted one but still haven't found one with the quality and price I like. All the nice ones get expensive. To get one like I want will be about $400 but the ones that come close are going for about $350+++ today (July 2020). I have a couple 5-7's but still no nice P64. I will suffer on... P.S. God bless America.
Hickok i am from Bulgaria, and the Makarov is really popular here even now some police officers are still carrying this gun. My dad taught me how to shoot on this gun, i even got my licence with Makarov :). The price on 1 round here is in US dollars arround 15 cents. :D. Nice to see a video for this one :D
I have a Bulgarian Makarov I purchased about 6 years ago. It had never been fired and the grease in the magazines had hardened to a rubbery consistency. I cleaned it up and purchased 5 boxes of ammo and went to my outdoor range. After putting the 5 boxes through the thing I have determined that this pistol may be the best bargain in pistols. Reliable as a Glock, really great trigger, and really easy to shoot. I have since purchased a stainess steel Russian model in 380. It has all the great characteristics of the Bulgarian, and super pretty to boot. However - I can tell the difference in power between the 9x18 and 380. The 9x18 is noticeably punchier on impact.
If you are looking for a great carry pistol with great reliability, trigger, and a real safety to boot - there is no better bargain in my opinion. A lot like the Bersa Thunder 380 but a bit sexier as it is a real military combat pistol. Just my 3 cents.
Do you think the p 83 wanad would be an even better gun?
I totally agree with you. I have a Makarov from about 2 or 3 years and its my everyday carry. I live in an area where they are potential robbers or even worse so yeah when i got my makarov i know im ready for anything
"Let's smoke some pot right away." Hickok45, 2015.
I freaking love Granpa Hickock. Is there a way I can reverse-adopt him ? xD
+TheAtmosfear7 Sounds like you're on your way already... just gotta get him to call you grandson now :D.
+TheAtmosfear7 Haha he is in high demand!
69 likes lol
all day
He's like the Bob Ross of guns
but alive
never heard that before....
Agreed
Nah, that's Paul Harrell. Hickock is like the mister Rogers of guns
Very polite Gentleman, also great narrator :)
Made in Bulgaria. ARSENAL-Kazanlak
Hi from the UK. Just to say thanks for keeping us up to date with these excellent videos. Having spent several years in the UK military services, I miss the freedom of going to the range and letting off a few rounds. I envy your freedom. Keep up the good work.
My husband decided to take my Bulgarian Mak on a kayaking trip. Well, the kayak got tipped and we lost her in the river. I just picked up a new one today and I'm so happy. I'm not the best shot with most guns, but I was very surprised when I was hitting targets pretty far off with my mak. As a beginner shooter who doesn't get much target practice I can vouch that this is a very accurate gun. I love it and feel really safe with it. Before loosing our other one we carried it everywhere especially while hiking and camping in the woods. So glad to have another one I hope we never part again!
I love my Bulgarian Mak. Always makes me look like a better shot than I am. Also love my Polish P64! Great video. Thanks from Knoxville! - Hegde
First - cheers from Bulgaria!
Second - most likely this one is made for or sold to the Ministry of Defence of Slovenia according to you technical manual.
Have a nice day and stay safe.
I just put a down payment on an East German Makarov, one of the nicest little guns I have seen in a long time, getting it for $350 with two mags, an East German police marked holster and a 50 rounds box of ammo.
Happy shootin!
I GOT ONE FOR 300 BUCKS IT DONT MISS A BEAT I SHOT OFF 16 ROUNDS WITH IT 350 NOT BAD THOUGH THEY GOING TO GO UP ON THEM I AM GOING TO KEEP MINE FOR WHEN THEY DO BUT I MIGHT KEEP IT BULLETS ARE CHEAP TO
Got an East German Makarov when they first imported them. I think I paid $125 to a gun dealer friend. Beautifully machined and finished in a deeply polished blue. The front of the grip is etched "Ernst Thaelmann Mod. M 9mm IACO Sacca, Germany". I'm never going to sell it.
you keep saying makarov! but the dog hears Mack! ..Mack!...Mack!
+marcuss354
Ha ha, yeah, that's what I was thinking as well. :)
*****
Guess the dogs name. :)
I picked up a Russian Makarov for a$100 dollars a few years back for a back up to my duty weapon. It actually had adjustable rear sight. Once we shot mine several guys went out and bought one for their back up.Combat Accuracy and No Jams. Easy to tear down and clean.
I’ve had my Bulgarian for several years now. It was my primary ccw for a very long time. Still love shooting it. It is a must to paint the front sight, preferably in a night sight kind of paint.
What brand of paint would you recommend?
Just gotta give Mac a big old hug, that always makes a Golden happy :)
Yeah! Smoke some pot right from the start.
420
+Toby Wood Dat Byze chicken tho haha
+Toby Wood and to that.... excuse me
+Toby Wood Smoke pot everyday
hell yeah
I heard that the East German by the Ernst Thälhmann were the best made and the most desirable. Which is the one I have made in 1961 and it's freakin beautiful.
Yes.
+Rich P I picked one up at a local gun show, years ago ($175). It's a sweetie, and no, I'll never sell it.
The only Mak-type I prize more is my Cz82.
GOT ME ONE FOR 300 THEY GOING TO GO UP THOUGH BUT I THINK I WILL KEEP IT DONT MISS A BEAT AND IT CAN BE RAN OVER BY TRUNK IN MUD AND WATER AND STILL SHOOT ON PIONT ITS ON THE TORTURE TEST ON YUTUBE FOR MAKAROV
I have an East German, made in 65. All original with holster. Brandon Herrera has me convinced to keep it, lol!
I have an East German and it is a very sweet little pistol. I love mine.
Looks like it'd be a solid option for concealed carry if one were seeking an inexpensive option?
My father liked to use this as a CCW. R.I.P. I inherited this handgun and I love it. Added a slip on Pachmyar grip. It’s fantastic.
I don't follow every model of every firearm from every maker so what may be casual and obvious info to you is many times news to many of us. That is why I follow your channel. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and information. Good job guys.
When Hickok does a video on a gun you actually own . . . .
Academy Sports generally carries 9x18 so it isn't very hard to find. I ran across a bunch of Silver Bear hollow points for a dirt cheap price a few years ago so I've run a lot of it through mine and have never had any feeding issue. They are not exactly high-tech, but they sure do work.
I own the Hungarian version, the PA-63. Great little carry gun and very accurate.
Hey Hickok45, thanks for the great video on the Makarov. I just acquired one recently myself.
It is an IMEZ Russian Makarov with the adjustable rear sight and the target like grip with thumb and index finger
grooves. From my research it seems the pure military models seem to be the most desired.
Personally I like the adjustable rear sight. I do not plan to carry it concealed or otherwise. I like taking my guns to the range and looking for that perfect target with all rounds in the same hole. Well on my first outing to the outdoor range I set my target at about 30 feet from the shooting stand. When adjusting sights i always load my mags up with 3 rounds each.
Well you could have slapped me in the mouth when i found on almost every group I was putting two out of three rounds in the same hole. Wow......i was shooting better with this new ( to me ) handgun than I used to shoot with my beloved M-1911A1 and my Detonics Combat Master. It took a little while to get my shot group to move as the elevation screw on the rear sight was backed out so far my adjustments were making no difference. By the time it was getting dark out I fully loaded 2 mags.
First full mag made one big ragged hole about 1" above dead center. Second mag was big hole in center of the Ten ring .
I was shooting sitting on a stool with 2 hand hold with hands resting flat on the shooting table. No sandbags.
Are these Makarovs all this accurate or did I just get lucky on a day the Range Gods were smiling on me.
Oh, by the way. One of my 3 round groups WAS 3 rounds in the same hole.
Awesome video Hickock! I've been waiting for you to revisit the Makarov for a long time.
it looks quite effective on that cinderblock, good enough for me.
I appreciate the video guys. It's great to learn about firearms I've never had the opportunity to shoot before.
YES!! you finally did the makarov!! great shoot!
+trickster 876 This is our second Makarov video. See description.
+hickok45 I didnt notice the other one, but thank you for telling me that, ill go find it!
Soap! Price! Makarov is still alive!!!
I just love ya! I was so afraid of guns only because I didn't know anything about them and I knew a few ppl who were careless with them. I started watching you several years ago and learned about them and how to properly use one (Cooper). I bought my first gun because of you and I totally enjoy using it at the range. I'm hopeful to one day buy a second...Makarov. Thank you. Blessings to you.
That is a really pretty pistol. Like the child of a Walther PPK and a CZ 75. Thank you sir for another great video.
+Arbhall McDougall how could a child be born 24 years before the parent?
michael johnson If I was to assign a sex to any firearm, they would all be female. They accept the phallic bullets and when handled properly are a joy to behold. So no children would realistically be possible. I just meant that is what the Mak looks like to me. A cross between the PPK and CZ 75. Just a turn a phase.
+Arbhall McDougall CZ75 has nothing common with this gun. Nothing. It is completely different. Different size, different slide, different locking mech, different shape.. Absolutely nothing.
Only simillar CZ guns are the CZ50/CZ70, CZ83/ CZ vz.82
xmeda Not even that super comfortable grip?
Would you feel less offended if I suggested it looked more the grip on a Hi Point?
You could also ask which model Im referring too couldnt you?
+Arbhall McDougall Not even grip. Have you ever seen CZ75 yet?? I have it disassembled for cleaning on table right now. And Cz vz. 82 next to it..
Makarov has single-piece grip with different size and shape. Nothing common with CZ75 other than both are self loading pistols.
The first thing I did when I got mine, was ordered the proper red star grips and a spare magazine. They both showed up today. I'm having an extra birffday today, sent 250 rounds at the range this afternoon to celebrate!!
They are over the $350.00 price point now, that is of your lucky enough to find one at that price. Wish I never sold mine years ago, gonna get another. One of the best firearms on the world IMO.
Today, around $500. Perhaps these iconic guns aren’t a bad investment.
Love this thing. First gun my dad gave me. Damn thing works like it doesn't have a choice in the matter.
I love the Makarov, I have a Baikal IJ-70, it was my first pistol.
Thanks Hickock. Great video. Back in the mid-90s, I worked evenings at a gun store after working days as a correctional caseworker. We sold a ton of Makarovs from throughout the old Warsaw Pack and Soviet Union. I believe they went for around $119. By comparison, we had Russian capture Walther P-38s for around $200. The Cold War had ended just 5-6 years prior and the deals in surplus arms seemed like they would never end. Another Cold War bargain was the Spanish Basque manufactured 9x19mm Star BM. I did get the Star. Now I wish I had picked up a Mak or two, and a Walther.
+Richard Najjar a PM firearm really cost about 50 $ in Russia!
Another great video Hickok.
I remember when these were cheap too (and im not nearly as old as you ;)
I kinda knew all this Russian/combloc surplus would go up in price. It always was remarkable how cheap they were for the quality of the firearms. I had a feeling that wouldnt last.
Theyre simple but not bad nor cheaply made.
Funny that this video was posted, have been looking into one of these over the past few days. Looks good.
7-4-2020. I own one of these Bulgarian Makarovs and just love it. I modified mine with a tactical grip that changes the mag release from the heel of the butt to the top left of the grip. I also sent the slide to Novak Sights to have a high vizability/Tritium set installed for my aging eyes to focus on. Best small gun I ever bought and is very accurate.
I wondered about being able to do tritium sights on this. Do you love them?
Black ops 1 memories haha
You are an artist with all of the guns
I received my Bulgarian Arsenal Makarov on Sept 7th and spent a good part of the next day cleaning the cosmoline out of the gun. My Mak cleaned up really well and the barrel was very clean. I purchased my gun from Classic Firearms for $299.00. I received two mags and two different grips. I cant wait to get on the range with this cold war beauty to compare it to my Sig P226, and Glock 19. For the money I really like the feel of the gun in my hands.
I think its funny every single time I consider purchasing a new gun Hickok45 posts a video of it....great minds think alike.
I know this is am old video but I felt I needed to weigh in. We have as Red Connection, x2 polish made p64s, a cz82, and a bulgarian makarov. Absolutely love the 9x18mm. All very well accurate weapons up to 25 meters. The available of makarov copies are starting to become more scarce. The best way to acquire magazines is to get in touch with folks like us. We keep I'm contact with russian vendors on Vk. I really recommend any 9mm enthusiast to own one. You won't regret having a makarov. This was a pretty good video, keep up the good work. Ura comrades!
my best friends in Bulgaria concealed carry Makarov, we were shooting targets 25 m away , great shooter :-) Thx HK45 :-)
I've got one with adjustable rear sights. Reliable, easy to carry, and cheap to own. For a time, ammo was hard to find.
In Bulgaria one magazine for this gun is 10$,and one box of ammo is around 17$.
But if you going to the Arsenal Bulgaria you can buy ammo for around 8-9$ for box.
Pretty much the AK of pistols right ?
Kinda
Mostly, but even more accurate. That fixed barrel pistol is a tack driver
I always carry MP (Makarov Pistol) as my back up gun while on duty. Extremely reliable and pretty powerful weapon for some certain tasks. Better stopping power than Walter PPK .380 and less penetration than my regular sidearm Beretta92F.
You win Mr. Hickok! I couldn't take it any more. Just ordered one from Bud's. Merry Christmas to me!
you just have to appreciate hickok45
Ak-47 and PM was made with good quality in my country.
I love your videos mate!!
In the army, My crew had to carry a box with 10 Makarovs in our self-propelled howitzer, in any drills we had. Once after we drove in a very hilly place had to stop and start shooting with a howitzer for time. The box with Mkarovs had detached and when we turned the turret to aim we smashed the whole box with the guns. It perforated one fuel tank.Then we had to sleep in the howitzer. It was winter and we are soaked in fuel in the morning. . Nobody was interested in the Makarovs we are shooting 122mm shells. Damn Makarovs I did not think someone will appreciate them so much. 122 mm Self-propelled howitzers were also Bulgarian production Russian models. Very good ones . They used them in the last war in Syria. Bulgaria was used by USSR to produce and sell weapons to all pro-communist states from Vietnam, Angola, Ethiopia ,Syria,Iraq and etc. The state company TEREM producing weapons and small arms had 30 factories The export company was called ''Kintex''' It started with shiploads for Vietnam. As small concealed arms, they developed keyholders with 2 bullets. It was called OSA
I love your videos!
Greetings from Bulgaria
Най-после нещо българско ! Nice !
The "target grips" adds points for importation.
For reloading 9mm Luger can be trimmed to length and fire formed.
Много Добре!! Beautiful firearm
I have an idea for a target to shoot at, and it's a can of shaving cream. love the show hickok, life is good.
This model was my first handgun and last year I gave it to my brother. I liked it, and if I find another I might get it.
Amazing gun. I bought 1 recently as a souvenir when i was in Prague for visit. Very cheap and shoots very fine. I do recommend 👍
I just got one of these and I love it so much
10:26
"Republic of Slovenia
Ministry of Defense
TECHNICAL BOOKLET
classification group: 010101010105
Title: Pistol, 9mm Registered factory number (serial number): NH 2946C"
It's more of a booklet that the military uses to keep track of when and to whom the weapon was issued, how many rounds were discharged on a particular day, etc.
Buds Gun Shop does sell Federal American Eagle ammo for the 9mm Makarov.
I am from Bulgaria. And I am glad to watch a video where you mention us. The crazy thing is that our police officers in the whole country use Makarov pistols Only.
The special forces use Glock 17, mp5 and G36.
I like it when Hickok goes across the field shooting the gongs I call that playing marching through Georgia on the gongs.
Classic Firearms also has the Bulgarian Makarov and the Polish Radoms too. I've been thinking a Radom as a trunk gun for my get home bag.
Cool vid Sir... I was just watching a video about an after market grip modification with an elongated duckbill for comfort as well as safety from the Mak blowback ....after the installation of the grip it turns the mag release from bottom to side release...just something you might want to look into for your personal Mak for an edc option ...thank you for uploading..tae care
One of two of my favorite all time pistols you have in your hand there sir! An original Makarov PM and an original WW2 1911 and I'd be in heaven :)
very beautiful pistol in a fine piece of history thanks for this amazing video Hickok 45
Ah, our standard issue for law enforcement and SWAT teams.
Great video as always!
I purchased a Bulgarian Makarov in 2000 with the same grip combo you have. It was in like new condition. I purchased it for just over $100 at the time.
Hickok, it is a Slovenian service pistol. The technical manual ( Tehnicka Knjizica) is from the Slovenian Republic Ministry of Defense (Republika Slovenia Ministarstvo za Obrambo), and a Slovenian coat of arms. The pistols were imported into Slovenia from Bulgaria during the wars in former Yugoslavia to provide the newly independent Slovenia with small arms.
"..if you could IMAGINE a Golden Retriever being mad about anything.." 👍😊👍
Greg. No more gun shows at the Fairgrounds in Nashville? 35 years of tradition. Broken.
+oahu kane Actually goes back further than that. I bought my Model 29 .44 Magnum there at a gun show in 1974. Don't know where they get the "35" years. Government entities are becoming more and more out of step with citizens; at the very time when fireams are becoming more and more popular and mainstream, anti gun / anti freedom governments are trying to go the other way and find any reason they can come up with to weaken the 2nd Amendment.
+hickok45 I don't live i your area, I'am SW Virginia, and the gun shows here are going away too. There used to be 2 a year 15 miles from were I live, about 2 years ago they cut them back to 1 a year, this year they moved it to a little place that you can't hardly move in, and its 30 miles from were I'am at. So this happening every where I guess. Thanks for all the great videos.
+hickok45 I absolutely agree with you.
+JJw650 jones I live out in Appalachia, near the TN/NC border. We have gun shows round here several times a year near Waynesville, and Franklin.
My anti-gun professors at college always love to hear me talk about going to gun shows heheh. I was once asked by a Prof what I would do if someone was shooting at me.
I told him I'd probably grab my AK47 and shoot back. He freaked out LOL
***** The professor was kind of shocked and didn't know what to say. However, a classmate gasped when I said that and said "You can own one of those?!". I responded with "Yes you can, I own two. I usually shoot them on my Sunday School Teacher's property".
That classmate seemed horrified for the rest of the class for some reason and didn't want to talk to me.
you should do a video on the p-64, its not a true makarov, but still 9x18 and a great gun
We still use Makarov for the gun license tests in Bulgaria. That or the Tokarev, old bug gold I suppose.
would you do a review on a Russian veper 7.62×54r
+Benjamin Thomas or a "VIKING" Pistol from Russia
the prince of .308 rounds
+turbostewi well, we also have a GSh-18, in 9*19 - very good gun!
Александр Другой
Very interesting! Never heard of it; it has a low bore axis, like some modern Kel-Tec pistols from USA.
+turbostewi you'll be impressed of our firearms. But! If you read our Firearm Law - you'll be disappointed too, because we have to make a license for a 12 G gun for a hunt, and if you're want to buy a rifle for example in .22 LR caliber - you have to go to the Department licensing and permitting work of the Ministry of internal Affairs
What is your concenses of the cz82 vs any of the makarovs
The CZ has a double stack mag that's just a better magazine overall, and a better mag release. The makarov safety de-cocks and really locks the gun up. Both are great and just eat everything you put in them. Diff is capacity and better mag vs better safety and more parts and aftermarket.
Hickok, do you have the Special hostler for the Makarov? That was always the best selling point of that pistol for me.
"I can add pretty good aren't I"
Yes. Yes you can.
I have a Russian Commercial version and picked up a Bulgarian today, I am in love with these pistols!
This is funny, I watched the Russian Mak video from Nov 23, 2012 just last night. Nice little gun, I am buying one for sure...too cheap to pass up and like you said, a nice piece of history. Thanks the great timing on this video, educational and entertaining as usual.
Bought a Russian Mak for $50 bucks in 1988. Never once had a FTF or misfire. Just bought a Bulgy Mak for $280. Covered in Cosmoline. I have some work to do. These are not in same class as CZ 82 or CZ 83 (got one of these too), but they are among the most rugged semi-autos ever made. Accurate and reliable. Exactly what you need for CCW.
I noticed that the manual is on Slovenian langue. Slovenia is former republic of Yugoslavia, where I served in military force (JNA) and as I recoil, this gun wasn't Yugoslav military firearm.
It’s easier to get a Bulgarian makarov in the US than it is in Bulgaria because of the ridiculous gun restrictions that we have here.
hickok45 ur are the best!!! there is none better WOOOOO!!!! PRO GUNS!!! GUNS FOREVER!!!!!! FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS!!!!
I love mine. Best $100 I've spent on guns. My summer carry.
I like the fab defense grip on mine, moves the mag release up to a common position for American handguns
Like no other. Hello from Syberia!
Would you consider revisiting the Tokarev? I'd love to know your thoughts on the new Zastava M70A chambered in 9x19 compared to the original 7.62x25.
+hickok45 I really love the nostalgia of these old surplus war horses! Is there any chance of you being able to review a Star Super B 9mm? The cheap 1911Knock off???
hickok45...i know this is an older video...but what kind of holster were you using in this video????
Hickock, in case you didn't know... you have the best job.
Hickok, I just got a beautiful (and I mean really beautiful) Henry 30-30 with an amazing American walnut stock and checkering and I got on to see what your thoughts were on it and to my surprise you don't have a video on one?!? What the what? Please get your hands on one and do a review!! Love your videos and thanks for making them!
Greetings from Bulgaria my friend
As a recommendation for those interested in carrying a Makarov for CC, I'd avoid the hollowpoints - the 9x18 round has mediocre penetration as it is, and adding a hollowpoint to the mix is bad news. I recommend a hard-cast round, such as the one Buffalo Bore makes. They're pricey, but being absolutely certain that your round will perform as you want it to is worth the extra money. Also, a higher weight recoil spring is a good idea too - not that the recoil is at all difficult, but tends to function better with a heavier spring.
I always loved this gun and the incredible sleek style and fixed barrel performance / accuracy. It's a brilliant and elegant design to say the lest. The bullets are so dainty and cute I always wanted one but still haven't found one with the quality and price I like. All the nice ones get expensive. To get one like I want will be about $400 but the ones that come close are going for about $350+++ today (July 2020). I have a couple 5-7's but still no nice P64.
I will suffer on...
P.S. God bless America.
Hickok i am from Bulgaria, and the Makarov is really popular here even now some police officers are still carrying this gun. My dad taught me how to shoot on this gun, i even got my licence with Makarov :). The price on 1 round here is in US dollars arround 15 cents. :D. Nice to see a video for this one :D
Got one from Bud's last month. Nice shooter!
МНОГО ДОБЪР И ЯК ПИСТОЛЕТ !!!
БЕЗОТКАЗЕН...
СУПЕР ЦЕНА
И НАЙ- ВАЖНОТО МАДЕ ИН БУЛГАРИЯ ..