The 9mm Makarov is a semi-automatic pistol cartridge developed in the Soviet Union in the late 1940s. It was designed for use in the Makarov PM pistol, which became a standard sidearm for Soviet and Eastern Bloc military and police forces. The cartridge is known for its moderate recoil and effective stopping power, making it suitable for self-defense and law enforcement. The 9mm Makarov has a bullet diameter of 9.2 mm and typically uses a 95-grain bullet. It operates at a lower pressure compared to other 9mm cartridges, such as the 9mm Luger, which contributes to its manageable recoil. The cartridge remains popular in various countries and is often used in surplus firearms.