Soviet Izhevsk Makarov PM 7x18mm 3.68″ Double Action Semi-Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $1901
LSB#: 220331RL004
Make: Izhevsk
Model: Makarov, PM (Pistolet Makarova)
Serial#: Soviet Serial Number (romanized): PU5976
Year of Manufacture: 1973, ATF Modern
Caliber: 9x18mm Makarov
Action Type: Single & Double-Action Semi-Automatic Service Pistol
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with the serial number “PU5976”. The left side of the frame is marked “PU5976”, has the Izhevsk logo (a triangle with an arrow inside) and date code “1973”. The parts are serial matched. The grip is marked with a star on the left and right sides.
Barrel Length: 93.5mm (approximately 3.68”)
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed by the muzzle. The rear sight is a dovetailed square-notch. There is a serrated rib between the sights to help reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grip is one-piece brown synthetic with checkering on the left and right sides. There is a lanyard ring fixed to the left side of the grip. The grip has light handling marks, nicks and scuffs. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering remains mostly sharp. Overall, the grip is in 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.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 65% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks, nicks and scuffs. Notably, there is finish loss on the barrel from the action, the leading edges and the front of the slide around the muzzle. Also, there are some patches of finish loss along the sides of the slide, front strap and the rear end of the frame that’s visible above the grip. The markings remain clear. Overall, the pistol is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: There is a single 8-round magazine included with the pistol. The magazine has some handling wear but it remains in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: The brainchild of Nikolai Fyodorovich Makarov, his namesake handgun was designed over the course of the late 1940s. The handgun adopted several elements from the Walther PP, but unlike the German pistol Makarov’s design was less complicated, it was made to endure harsh conditions and had stronger parts. The gun was adopted for service in 1951 and eventually phased out TT-30 Tokarev and Nagant M1895. The gun had a long service life and remains in service with several countries today including the Russian Federation.
This particular specimen is a Soviet-era Makarov which was made in 1973. The gun is a simple, ergonomic and mechanically sound option. Interestingly, the gun has no annoying importer stamps, this certainly adds to its charm and makes it stand out among the many Makarov’s on the market. While the gun does have some handling wear, it is a great option for fans of military firearms and/or someone in the market for a new personal defense weapon. Good luck on your bid!