Buy 9x18mm Ammo: The Ultimate Guide
Introduction to 9x18mm Makarov Ammo
The 9×18mm Makarov cartridge, also known as 9mm Makarov or 9x18 Mak, was developed in the late 1940s as a replacement for the 7.62×25mm Tokarev. It became the standard issue for Soviet military and police forces in 1951 alongside the adoption of the Makarov PM pistol.
Designed by Boris Semin, the 9x18mm Makarov was intended for compact handguns, offering low recoil and moderate stopping power. This made it a reliable choice for self-defense, military, and police use. The cartridge is non-interchangeable with 9x19mm Parabellum, as it has a slightly shorter case and wider bullet (9.22mm vs. 9.01mm). The 9x18mm Makarov is used in various firearms chambered for this round, highlighting its versatility.
What is 9x18mm Makarov Ammo?
The 9x18mm Makarov cartridge is a distinctive Soviet-designed pistol round. It operates at lower pressure than 9x19mm, making it manageable in compact handguns while still delivering effective ballistic performance.
- Bullet Diameter: 9.22mm (compared to 9.01mm for 9x19mm)
- Standard Bullet Weights: 90-100 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: 950-1,100 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 220-250 ft-lbs
- Common Uses: Self-defense, target shooting, military surplus firearms, and self defense purposes due to its reliability and effectiveness.
The 9x18mm Makarov remains a popular choice for those who own Soviet and Eastern Bloc firearms. Surplus ammunition, including steel-cased and corrosive-primed options, is still widely available.
History and Development of 9x18mm Makarov Pistol
The 9×18mm Makarov was developed to replace the high-velocity but over-penetrative 7.62×25mm Tokarev. Soviet engineers wanted a lower recoil alternative suitable for compact, blowback-operated pistols.
- Designed by Boris Semin in the late 1940s
- Standardized in 1951 with the Makarov PM pistol
- Used extensively by Soviet and Eastern Bloc nations
- Produced in Russia, China, Bulgaria, and East Germany
- Available in steel-cased and brass-cased variants
This wider bullet diameter ensured that NATO 9x19mm rounds could not be used in captured Makarov pistols, though this was not the primary reason for its design.
Types of 9x18mm Makarov Ammo
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
- Ideal for target shooting and training
- Lead core with a copper or bi-metal jacket
- Non-expanding, making it cost-effective for practice
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
- Designed for self-defense and law enforcement
- Expands upon impact for increased stopping power
- Reduces overpenetration, making it safer for home defense
Steel-Cased & Surplus Ammo
- Often found in military surplus stock
- More affordable but not reloadable
- Some indoor ranges restrict steel-core ammo due to backstop damage
- Some older surplus ammo is corrosive, requiring thorough cleaning
Firearms That Use 9x18mm Makarov Ammo
The 9x18mm Makarov is primarily used in Soviet-era pistols and submachine guns, specifically firearms chambered for this round:
Pistols:
- Makarov PM (Standard Soviet/Eastern Bloc service pistol)
- Makarov PMM (Modernized version with increased capacity)
- PA-63 (Hungarian)
- P-64 (Polish)
- P-83 (Polish)
- CZ-82 (Czech, double-stack magazine)
Submachine Guns:
- Kedr PP-91 (Russian compact SMG)
- Stechkin APS (Select-fire Soviet pistol)
- PP-90 (Russian foldable SMG)
Note: The OTs-14 Groza was NOT mass-produced in 9x18mm, making it not a widely used firearm for this caliber.
Uses and Applications of 9x18mm Makarov Ammo
Self-Defense
- JHP rounds are preferred for self defense purposes due to their expansion and stopping power
- Lower recoil makes follow-up shots easier
- Slightly weaker than 9x19mm but stronger than .380 ACP
Target Shooting
- FMJ rounds offer affordable, reliable performance
- Steel-cased surplus is common but may be banned at some ranges
Military Surplus Collecting
- Many Soviet and Eastern Bloc pistols are still in circulation
- Surplus ammunition is widely available, but some may be corrosive
Hunting: 9x18mm is not recommended for hunting, except for very small game at close range.
Why Buy 9x18mm Makarov Ammo from Pro Armory?
At Pro Armory, we offer high-quality 9x18mm Makarov ammo at competitive prices:
- Extensive Selection – FMJ, JHP, and surplus rounds
- Affordable Pricing – Get the best value for your purchase
- Fast Shipping – Orders processed quickly for fast delivery
- Trusted Brands – Reliable manufacturers for quality and consistency
- Customer Support – Our team helps you find the right ammo
9x18mm Makarov Ammo Safety & Storage Tips
Proper handling and storage of your ammunition ensures safety and longevity:
- Always Treat Firearms as Loaded – Never point at anything you don’t intend to shoot
- Use the Correct Caliber – Verify your firearm is chambered for 9x18mm Makarov
- Store Ammo Properly – Keep in a cool, dry place to prevent degradation
- Wear Eye & Ear Protection – Shooting sports generate noise and debris
- Know Your Target and Beyond – Prevent accidental discharges
- Inspect Surplus Ammo – Clean firearms thoroughly after using corrosive surplus rounds
Shop 9x18mm Makarov Ammo Online at Pro Armory
Whether you need 9x18mm Makarov ammo for target practice, self-defense, or surplus collecting, Pro Armory has the right selection for you. Browse our online store today and find the best deals on 9x18mm Makarov ammunition.
