This is unusual in a Bulgie Mak. I have five Maks and all are 100% reliable. They safety may be the culprit. If you can swap safeties, that may help. If not a replacement slide will do the trick. Check with Karl at
http://www.makarovpistol.com I think that's the link although it may have changed. The discussion forum is now on
http://www.gunboards.com
Don't give up on the Mak.