Ammunition

Makarov cartridge is build just like any other typical round. Factory markings are located on the bottom of the shell. Primer capsule is inserted in the middle and covered with lacquer that is also serves as color code for bullet type. Grove on the back of the cartridge serves as contact for ejector. Gunpowder charge is 0.25 grams.

Primer’s construction and components were designed by Hiram Berdan. It consists of brass cap with fulminate of mercury Hg(ONC)2 inside that is covered by small piece of aluminum foil.

Bullet consists of steel core that is covered by lead jacket. This solution first was used in design of 7.62x39 round back in 1943. Such design enabled for lead economy (World War II was still going on, remember?), and also added additional penetration power.

After Makarov entering world market in mid 90s, it became necessary to adjust to demand. This is how 9x17 or .380 Auto version came about. That caliber is the one of the oldest rounds produced. However, the biggest interest should’ve been caused by 9x19 version. This powerful round became one of the most popular round since it’s first appearance in 1902. It was 1990s when compact 9x19 handguns started to appear. Small size and relatively light weight allowed for these pistols to be concealed easily. And yet standard Makarov Pistol fires it’s own 9x18 round.