Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

To learn and introduce new loaders. Tips and tricks from old timers.

Moderators: Chuck, Mustang380gal, Coordinators, Moderators

Post Reply
rimfireOH
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 420
Joined: Fri Dec 27, 2013 9:49 am
Location: NE Ohio

Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by rimfireOH »

I'm a newer reloader and am having good success with 9x19 Luger. I also shoot 9x18mm Makarov. I see that Mak dies exist -- is that necessary or can I just use my existing 9mm dies and adjust them for the shorter Makarov cartridges?

I'm also wondering if it would be useful to have a dedicated setup (one for Luger and one for Makarov). What are the forum's thoughts?
User avatar
Morne
OFCC Coordinator
OFCC Coordinator
Posts: 10631
Joined: Thu Jul 07, 2005 9:01 pm
Location: Wayne County

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by Morne »

Makarov is a slightly different diameter - it's not just shorter. Don't think your luger dies will work.
Thus spoke Zarathustra.

Footsoldier in the Conservative Insurrection of the GOP.

Remember, only you can prevent big government!
rimfireOH
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 420
Joined: Fri Dec 27, 2013 9:49 am
Location: NE Ohio

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by rimfireOH »

Morne wrote:Makarov is a slightly different diameter - it's not just shorter. Don't think your luger dies will work.
That's probably why they exist. Ok thanks, I'll go acquire a set.
Brian D.
Posts: 16229
Joined: Mon Jul 04, 2005 8:42 pm
Location: SW Ohio

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by Brian D. »

Makarov is a few thousandths larger diameter than Luger/Parabellum.
Quit worrying, hide your gun well, shut up, and CARRY that handgun!

********************************************************************************
1911 and Browning Hi Power Enthusianado.
cpg
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 345
Joined: Fri Nov 20, 2009 11:39 am
Location: Lorain County

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by cpg »

What they said :) .
People say firearm owners are compensating for something.
I am compensating for being smaller and weaker than most criminals.
Brian D.
Posts: 16229
Joined: Mon Jul 04, 2005 8:42 pm
Location: SW Ohio

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by Brian D. »

I looked it up: 9mm Parabellum bullets are about 0.355" in diameter, Makarov is 0.365".
Quit worrying, hide your gun well, shut up, and CARRY that handgun!

********************************************************************************
1911 and Browning Hi Power Enthusianado.
rimfireOH
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 420
Joined: Fri Dec 27, 2013 9:49 am
Location: NE Ohio

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by rimfireOH »

Thanks, all -- I think I'd shoot my Makarov more if I had easier access to ammunition, so I went ahead and purchased the dies for that caliber.

Thank you.
willbird
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 11446
Joined: Tue Nov 08, 2005 9:19 am
Location: Exit 13 on the ohio Turnpike :-)

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by willbird »

Lee sells a 9x18 trimmer, and you can trim 9x19, expand, load with proper bullet, and fire.

You will want to keep the brass separate though.


Bill
Have a great day today unless you have made other plans :-).
rimfireOH
OFCC Member
OFCC Member
Posts: 420
Joined: Fri Dec 27, 2013 9:49 am
Location: NE Ohio

Re: Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

Post by rimfireOH »

willbird wrote:Lee sells a 9x18 trimmer, and you can trim 9x19, expand, load with proper bullet, and fire.
Thank you. I've purchased the die set (should be here today). I have a pretty large collection of 9x18 brass already, so I think I'll stick with those.

Thanks, all, for the helpful comments!
Post Reply