That is a true piece of history right there! The Makarov is to Russia as the 1911 is to the US or the Luger is to Germany. The only downside to the Makarov is the fact it takes the 9 x 18mm round as opposed to the Luger that fires the 9mm parabellum or the 1911 that shoots the .45acp, which are both much easy to get your hands on than the 9 x 18mm. Still though, an iconic piece of history! great buy!