Makarov PMM
Izhevsk Mechanical Plant · Pistol · Limited Production · 1994
Also known as: PMM, Pistolet Makarova Modernizirovannyy
Overview
The Makarov PMM (Pistolet Makarova Modernizirovannyy) is a modernized variant of the classic Makarov PM, introduced in 1994 and chambered for a hotter loading of the 9x18mm cartridge (57-N-181SM). It features a double-stack 12-round magazine, a slightly stronger frame and slide, fluted chamber to aid extraction, and more ergonomic grip panels. The hotter cartridge generates approximately 25% more chamber pressure and pushes muzzle velocity from 315 to 430 m/s.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 760 g (26.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 93.5 mm (3.68") |
| Height | 127 mm (5.00") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 430 m/s (1411 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 536 J (395 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x18mm Makarov · primary — also known as 9mm Makarov, 9x18mm PM
- 9x18mm PMM (57-N-181SM) — also known as 9x18mm Improved, 9x18mm +P+, 57-N-181SM
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Decocker
- Features: Double Stack Magazine, Fluted Chamber, Ergonomic Grip
Variants
- IJ-71H — Export
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · adopted 1994 · as PMM
- Russian Federal Security Service
Conflicts
- Second Chechen War (1999-2009)
Production
Production years: 1994-present
Limited production; never widely adopted to replace the standard PM
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Boris Pletetsky
Notes
The PMM never fully replaced the standard PM in Russian service due to budget constraints and ammunition compatibility concerns. It can fire standard 9x18mm PM cartridges, but standard PMs should not be fed the hotter PMM ammunition.
Background
The PMM was developed in the early 1990s when Soviet pistol design philosophy collided with NATO realities - Russian engineers wanted to keep the venerable Makarov platform but needed more capacity and more punch to match Western 9x19mm sidearms. The compromise was a hotter cartridge that the original PM's frame couldn't safely handle, creating a one-way ammunition compatibility problem that persists today.