I have a russian Hi-Cap model I purchased at a pawn shop in 95% perfect condition about a year and a half ago for $150 OTD .
Came with one original 12rnder and an aftermarket 10rnder, original grips, original cleaning tool, lanyard, and holster, and the ever-annoying to carry original adjustable "target" sight.
I've since put a finish hone on the hammer and trigger parts to slicked it up a bit. Replaced the rear sight with one of Makarov.com's sleeker 'carry" sights, pearce grips, and a wolff 19# recoil spring. (If you haven't tried the firmer recoil springs--stock is 17lbs--you really should, not only will it save your frame but lessen the unique "straight back" recoil on these maks).
I had converted it to .380 for a short time, due to ammo availability...but it's just not as satisfying. I've since gone back to the 9x18 barrel, and sold the .380 barrel on ebay (for over twice what I paid).
It's my least expensive handgun, by all means...but it's also my favorite. Eats anything from the cheap norinco green box (junk, imo) to the huge open cavity HP's from Hornady. I tend to buy the S&B FMJ's most often, as they are the cheapest I can find locally that are reloadable. I was shocked the first time I shock the WOLF stuff, as it seems quite a bit "hotter" than the S&B stuff. I don't have dies yet for 9x18, but I have plenty of brass stored up when the time comes!
I had a few failure to fires in the beginning, but it was from a dirt firing pin channel....
I plan to have the trigger and hammer hard chromed, and I'd like to find one of the older (discontinued) Federal barrels in stainless steel...
These buggers are also very accurate (fixed barrel, of course). I'd like to pick up a single-stack version as well, as something a little more sleek would be a big plus...and as you may know, the russian frames do not have the best finish.
This russan makarov was the first handgun my fiancee shot...she did suprisingly well, too!
And just for fun, heres a pic from the same day--the first time she shot a larger caliber rifle....A russian M44 with a STEEL BUTT PLATE too, might I add. Those of you who have had the opportunity know how harsh the recoil and concussion of these rifles really are!
