The PM (short for Pistolet Makarova), otherwise known as the Makarov, is a Russian semi-automatic pistol. It was first produced in 1949 and was put into service in 1951.
History
The PM was intended to replace the TT-33 semi-automatic pistol, but with a 9mm cartridge as opposed to the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge. The PM differentiates from the TT-33 by being lighter, smaller, and slightly less powerful. Because of this, it is a lot easier to carry, hold, use, and is more accurate than the TT-33. Not only this, it is simple, cheap, and easy to manufacture, which helped it being selected as the Soviet Union's standard sidearm replacing the TT-33. In 1991, the gun was phased out of service after the collapse of the Soviet Union, later being replaced by the MP-443 Grach. The PM proved superior still to the TT-33, being able to be quickly field-stripped in times of under a minute, even without tools. As proof, until 2003 IzhMash security could account for a Makarov Serial №8 that had performed 50000 shots without major part replacement.
Nowadays, the PM is very common and inexpensive, prices ranging from $150 to $450. Safety issues have been previously shown, such as about the free-floating firing pin, but many countries still allow it for civilian ownership and use. They are very popular in the United States due to its compact size, making it ideal for concealed carry.
Variants
- PMM
Modernization of the Makarov. Features higher-capacity magazines, different grip, a fluted barrel, and the capability to use higher pressure 9x18mm Makarov cartridges.[1]