Convert to .380 for mak?

G

Gewehrmutter

New member
I am thinking of converting one of my bulgie maks to .380 cal. I have never used this cartridge before, and I hear it's just worth staying with the original 9x18 because the conversion cost a nice chunk of change and the .380 is slighty less powerful. Despite all of this, I am tempted to convert it anyways because 1. .380 is more available (e.g. you can buy ammo in most Walmarts, etc.) 2. There is a wider choice of defensive rounds available (e.g. Golden Saber, Hydroshok, etc.) 3. I hear there is less wear on the gun because the .380 is slightly less powerful. 4. .380 ammo can by found at slightly cheaper prices. The reason I ask, is because I am told the .380 conversion can cost more than the gun and why pay that for a less powerful round. Oh, one more thing: Is the .380 prone to jamming compared to the 9x18 in the mak when using evrn just ball ammo? Well, I just wanted to check with you'll on this aspect before doing so.

Thanks,
Gewehrmutter
 
I get boxes of 50 rounds of 9mmMakarov at the local gun show for $5.45 per box, Russian LVE. Usually Barnaul 95 grain and Wolf 109 grain for maybe a dollar more. You can get the Chinease for ~$5 per box. Barnaul hollow points for $7-8. Sometimes the 9mm Mak is harder to find but there is plenty out there, at least in this area.
Lots of technical info at www.makarov.com
Considering the number of 9x18-chambered pistols out there is large and companies like Wolf are perfectly legit , IMHO I don't see the supply of 9mmMak ammo evaporating. I DO wish that Walmart would start selling Mak ammo, though.
Haven't heard of 9x17 being less reliable than 9x18. You can use the same magazines, I am sure you already know.
I considered switching a few years ago but figured, nah!
 
The conversion consists of a rather simple (remove one pin and drive out barrel, then drive in new barrel and replace pin) barrel swap. Federal Ordnance makes a barrel, I have done several for friends and all required some minor fitting (I had to file the feed ramp off at the bottom as it was manufactured too long and it hung out into the magazine well).

Functioning with .380 ammo (including JHP) is fine.

FWIW
 
I would not do it, of course, I'm a purist. I would suggest finding a .380 Mak and adding it to your collection. :D
 
I would forget the idea and order a large amount of ammo from one of the dealers on the Internet. When I can't do this I will reload for the Mak. Regards, Richard
 
Thanks for all of the replies. I will most likely not convert to .380. Besides, I already have a good amount of 9x18 ammo on hand!

Thanks,
Gewehrmutter
 
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