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Quick Look
The Kolibri pistol, designed in 1914 by Franz Pfannl, is one of the smallest centerfire pistols ever made. Intended as a highly concealable self-defense weapon, it chambered the tiny 2.7mm Kolibri cartridge. Today, it's a rare collectible, known more for its engineering novelty than practical use.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Extremely compact and concealable design
- Unique novelty appeal for collectors
- Extremely rare with historical value
- Chambered in the smallest known centerfire cartridge
- Interesting example of early 20th-century engineering
Key Variants
Kolibri 2.7mm
Original variant chambered in 2.7mm Kolibri, ideal for historical collections and museum interest.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Kolibri | Beretta 21A | Ruger LCP |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Unavailable (collector price) | $400 | $300 |
| Capacity | 5 rounds (2.7mm) | 7+1 (.22 LR) | 6+1 (.380 ACP) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.25 lb | 11.8 oz | 9.6 oz |
| Optics-ready | No | No | No |
| Trigger type | Single action | DA/SA | DAO |
| Notable pro | Smallest centerfire pistol ever | Tip-up barrel design | Lightweight and pocketable |
| Notable con | Poor stopping power | Small caliber for defense | Snappy recoil |
Best Use Cases
- Private firearms collections
- Museum exhibitions
- Historical firearms research
- Conversation piece among enthusiasts
FAQs
What is the Kolibri pistol chambered in?
The Kolibri fires a 2.7mm centerfire cartridge, the smallest commercially available centerfire round ever made.
Can I use the Kolibri for self-defense?
No, the 2.7mm round lacks sufficient stopping power and was more of a novelty even in its era.
How rare is the Kolibri today?
Very rare. Fewer than 1,000 were produced, and surviving examples are highly collectible.







