Sometimes I carry my Bulgarian Makarov (9x18 Makarov)in a pocket holster instead of my bulky 10mm Glock, especially in the summertime when light, thin clothes are the uniform of the day.

Currently, I load it with S&B, fmj ammo, since I've read several articles that state penetration is a problem with jhp ammo in this caliber. I have seen some plus-p, jhp (Underwood)stuff that almost equals Parabellum ballistics, but have heard from others that this is too hot for some of the recoil-operated Makarov guns.

My hope is that if I ever have to fire the gun in anger (highly unlikely, statistically speaking), either the shock of receiving return fire, or a well aimed head/neck shot will end the danger.

My question is, does anybody here use this caliber as a primary or secondary CCW? What bullet do you use?

Some of the guys out here like the Hornady Critical Defense with the 95gr. FTX bullets for their Makarovs.

George

Some years ago someone gave me some of the Russian HP to test. It looked just the same as the normal FMJ after penetrating 1 gallon water jug.

Luckily I have never had to test my theory with the lower power cartridges (380, 9X18), but I have always felt penetration and nicely distributed multiple impacts would provide the best outcome in the case of coarse social interaction. Of course that was back in the day when I owned a 13 round CZ 82.

Your results are pretty much the same as what I've read from most folks who have tested the Russian Silver Bear JHPs. Might as well use FMJs.

Buffalo Bore loads a 115-grain, hard-cast, flat nosed bullet to a little over 1000 fps that is said to out penetrate most all other makarov loads. I think I'll buy a box and see how they perform in my pistol.