Bulgarian Arsenal “Circle 10” Makarov PM 9x18mm – 1990 Military-Issue Semi-Auto Pistol
Built at Bulgaria’s famed Factory 10 arsenal and imported by Century International Arms, this 1990 Makarov PM represents one of the last true military-issue examples legally brought into the U.S. market. Chambered in 9x18mm and featuring the robust fixed-barrel, straight-blowback system the design is known for, this pistol offers collectors an authentic Circle 10 service sidearm with its original blued steel finish, chrome-lined barrel, and star-medallion bakelite grip.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – shows extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol remains mechanically solid. External surfaces display scattered scratches, blemishes, and areas of light rust with minor pitting. The bore is bright and shiny, consistent with the chrome-lined interior.
What’s Included
- 2 × 8-round factory-pattern steel magazines
- Wrap-around black rubber grip sleeve (for Makarov)
- Century International Arms cardboard import box with serialized label
Produced in 1990, the serial format includes the “30” year code confirming its late-Cold-War manufacture. Circle 10 proof marks on the slide and frame verify Bulgarian military origin, while the discreet C.A.I. Georgia VT stamp documents its U.S. importation.
The fixed, chrome-lined 3.68-inch barrel contributes to inherent accuracy and ease of maintenance. Combined with the simple straight-blowback action, the design remains famously reliable and easy to service.
Operational controls are classic Makarov: a slide-mounted safety/decocker, heel-type magazine release, and DA/SA trigger linked to an external ring hammer. Factory cocking serrations and a grooved top rib aid manipulation and reduce glare.
The original reddish-brown bakelite grip with molded star emblem is intact, preserving authentic military aesthetics. A removable rubber grip sleeve is included for shooters who prefer additional traction without altering the pistol.