Ernst Thaelmann E. Germany Makarov 9×18 3.67″ Semi-Auto Pistol MFD 1962 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1000
LSB#: 211028ML02
Make: Ernst Thaelmann, Germany (Imported by CAI)
Model: Makarov
Serial Number: BT 0974
Year of Manufacture: 1962 C&R
Caliber: 9mm Makarov (9mmx18)
Action Type: Single or Double Action Semi-Auto Pistol with Decocker Safety
Fed by Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with the serial number and a German arsenal mark behind the safety. The left side of the frame is marked with an arsenal mark, “K100” within a rectangle, the serial number, “62” indicating the year of manufacture, and an “Y” in a dotted circle. The right side of the frame is marked “CAI ST ALB VT. / 9MM MAK” and “GERMANY”. The underside flat of the firing pin housing is marked “K48” in a box. The left side of the chamber is marked with a German arsenal mark. The left side of the barrel assembly is marked “K75” in a box. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “862”. The trigger bar assembly is marked “74”. There is a faded import mark on the front strap from which “ERNST THAELMANN MOD M” can be made out, the rest is illegible.
Barrel Length: 3.67”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed into the slide. The top of the slide has a full-length rib with fine wavy serrations to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece checkered black plastic that encloses the backstrap. There are some nicks, scratches, and light cloudy discoloration on the smooth portions but no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grip is in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, just some light fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 86% of its current metal finish. There are scattered little nicks and scratches throughout the metal. There is standard operational wear. There is some faint pitting on the right side of the slide. The safety and sides of the hammer show a slight plum hue. There is thinning on the leading edges. There is notable finish loss on the front strap. The grip screw is lightly tooled with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a de-cocker that also blocks the firing pin when raised all the way up into the safe position. The double-action trigger pull is relatively smooth and the single-action trigger has a small amount of creep. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with two 8-round magazines and a black leather flap holster. The inside of the flap is marked “Heino Handrick ZENKE” and “Mdl / III./X”.
Our Assessment: Taken from Makarov.com, “The Ernst Thaelman factory in Suhl, Thueringen made what are considered by some to be the finest pre-fall-of-the-Berlin Wall Makarovs. The finish is nice, the fit and machining is of quality you’d expect from a German shop, and they shoot like a dream. Almost all that came into this country had already seen service, so their quality varies by how they were treated by the person who carried them.” This example is in about Very Good-Fine condition with a bright bore and strong mechanics. It comes with a black leather holster and two 8-round magazines. Please see our photos and good luck!