FEG PA-63

by Mark (no last name - not the web master)
(Iowa)

The FEG PA-63

Finding an affordable, concealable, sufficiently powerful handgun for concealed carry is indeed a tough needle to thread. After much research and juggling of wants vs needs, I settled on the Hungarian made PA-63 in 9x18 Makarov.

The pistol is based on the Walther PPK, and like the Bersa and Walther is a fixed barrel design. It is a former Hungarian police/military sidearm that is now available in the US. With a slide clip attached, it carries easily in the waistband of my pants, and provides reasonable firepower and accuracy. Cost was around $250.

I did 2 modifications to the weapon after I bought it. From Wolff Springs I purchased a lighter recoil spring (forgive me if that's the wrong nomenclature - the spring that surrounds the barrel) to reduce felt recoil, and a lighter hammer spring to reduce the double action trigger pull. The weapon was serviceable as is, but these 2 inexpensive and relatively non-invasive modifications make a big difference in the shooter's ability to shoot accurately and get back on target quickly.

The 9x18 Makarov falls between the .380 and 9mm in power, and although it's not readily available at the local gun store, I find that I can get plenty of ammo at the gun shows that pop up several times a year in my area. A box of 50 rounds usually runs around $11.

An elegant, well balanced firearm that fulfills all that I ask for in a concealed carry weapon.

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