9 × 18 mm Makarov

the same they are not interchangeable and to avoid confusion the words, 'Makarov,' 'Soviet' 'Police' or 'Ultra' should be used when identifying these different rounds. The 9 mm Makarov cartridge was designed by Boris Semin and was introduced into Soviet service together with the PM Makarov and Stechkin pistols in 1951. Various changes have been introduced over the years, including at one time a Tracer projectile, and the original brass case was replaced by steel. In 1993, a modernised Makarov pistol was introduced chambered for the 57-N-181M 9 × 18 mm cartridge, a high-velocity high-penetration version of the original round. Several new sub-machine guns have since been chambered for the new cartridge, as well. Ballistically, the new cartridge is on a par with the 9 × 19 mm Parabellum, a dramatic improvement. The new cartridge is externally identical to the earlier 9 × 18 mm, apart from its conically shaped bullet designed to penetrate soft body armour and mild steel plate. Because of increased chamber pressures, this new cartridge cannot be safely fired in older PM pistols, although the original cartridge can be safely fired from the modernised PM. Several Russian arms makers recently showed new prototype military pistols in 9 × 19 mm and announced that the military's next pistol will be chambered for that cartridge. The 9 × 18 mm will thus eventually be replaced in Russian military service. Despite this, the many weapons produced in this calibre will ensure the presence of the 9 × 18 mm in the world's military and police forces for many years to come. Applications include soviet PM and PMM Makarov and Stechkin pistols; Makarov copies such as the Chinese Type 59, Czech Model 83, East German Pistole M, and other pistols chambered for this round such as the Hungarian PA-63 and Polish P-64 . Sub-machine guns include the Bison , Kiparis, PP-90 and PP-90M and KEDR.