Inside the World's Smallest Cartridges: 2.7mm Kolibri

Published on January 1, 2026
Duration: 1:27

The 2.7mm Kolibri is the world's smallest centerfire cartridge, firing a 3-grain projectile at 650 fps with 3 ft-lbs of energy. Approximately 1,000 units were produced before WWI, ceasing due to wartime production shifts. The pistol, weighing 7.7 ounces loaded, features the 'FP' monogram for designer Franz Pfannl and was sold in a presentation case.

Quick Summary

The 2.7mm Kolibri is the world's smallest centerfire cartridge, firing a 3-grain projectile at 650 fps with 3 ft-lbs of energy. Produced before WWI, only about 1,000 units were made. The pistol, weighing 7.7 oz loaded, features the 'FP' monogram for designer Franz Pfannl.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Performance Specs: 2.7mm Kolibri
  2. 00:11Production History: Pre-WWI
  3. 00:23Design: FP Monogram & Kolibri Name
  4. 00:38Weight & Presentation Case
  5. 01:09Ammunition: Smallest Centerfire

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the performance specifications of the 2.7mm Kolibri cartridge?

The 2.7mm Kolibri fires a 3-grain projectile at approximately 650 feet per second, generating about 3 foot-pounds (4 Joules) of energy. It is recognized as the world's smallest centerfire cartridge.

When was the 2.7mm Kolibri pistol produced and why did production stop?

Approximately 1,000 units of the 2.7mm Kolibri were manufactured shortly before World War I. Production ceased as manufacturing facilities shifted focus to producing arms for the war effort.

What does the 'FP' monogram and the name 'Kolibri' signify on the pistol?

The 'FP' monogram on the grips stands for the designer, Franz Pfannl. 'Kolibri' is the German word for hummingbird, reflecting the pistol's exceptionally small size.

What was included with the 2.7mm Kolibri pistol when sold?

The 2.7mm Kolibri pistol, weighing 7.7 ounces loaded, was sold in a presentation case. This case typically included a cleaning rod and a metal box designed to hold the cartridges.

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