Using 9mm Luger dies for 9mm Makarov?

[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?

[Morne]

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

[rimfireOH]

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.]

Makarov is a few thousandths larger diameter than Luger/Parabellum.

[cpg]

What they said .

[Brian D.]

I looked it up: 9mm Parabellum bullets are about 0.355" in diameter, Makarov is 0.365".

[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]

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

[rimfireOH]

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!