The smallest caliber gun ever made that saw commercial production is the 2.7mm Kolibri automatic pistol, often simply referred to as the 2mm Kolibri. This remarkable miniature firearm holds a unique place in history due to its incredibly compact size.
The Ultra-Compact 2.7mm Kolibri
Designed by Austrian watchmaker Franz Pfannl, the 2.7mm Kolibri pistol was first produced in 1914. Its creation was more of a novelty or a proof of concept for extremely small-scale firearms rather than a highly effective weapon. Despite its classification as a self-defense pistol, its minuscule size and ammunition provided very limited stopping power or practical range.
Production and Design Insights
The Kolibri pistols were exceptionally small, often compared to the size of a human thumb. Their discreet nature was their primary selling point.
- Designer: Franz Pfannl
- Production Year: 1914
- Number Built: Approximately 1,000 pistols were manufactured.
Ammunition Specifications
The ammunition for this pistol was equally tiny. While commonly known as the "2mm Kolibri," the actual bullet diameter measured 2.7mm (approximately 0.106 inches).
Here are key specifications derived from its design:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | 2mm Kolibri |
| Actual Caliber | 2.7mm |
| Ammunition Case Type | Rimless, straight |
This cartridge's unique rimless, straight case design was necessary for its ultra-compact dimensions. The 2.7mm Kolibri remains a fascinating example of miniature firearm engineering.
