I am a newby here but I have been shooting for 16 years. My First pistol was a 9x18 Baikal Makarov so I am a long time fan of the cartridge. I no longer have that Baikal but I do have a East German 1960 Makarov and an incoming 1977 Vintage P64.
I look forward to posting here as my questions about the P64 arise. This looks like a cool place.
Welcome boreal1. This is my favorite forum also. You'll learn just about everything there is to know about the P64 here. If not, the knowledgeable and friendly members will show you where to find it or how to do it!
You will enjoy shooting the P64. I've put over 300 rounds through mine, mostly Silver Bear, without so much as a hiccup. It's very accurate and dependable. I don't find it hurts my hand as some say. I enjoy shooting it and it's my primary CCW pistol. Enjoy!
I bought my 64 for the wife. After the first time we went out shooting - I deceided to keep it and give her the Taurus millenium pro that I paid twice as much for. She's happy and I am shocked how much I like the 64. I put another 100 rounds through it today and my hand is a little sore, but my shoulder soreness from firing 40 rounds through my winchester model94 30-30 is making me forget about the hand . Thanks to everyone on this sight for all the info. Steve