2 Mm Kolibri - Background

Background

The cartridge weighed 5.3 grams (82 grains), measured 3 millimeters (0.12 in) at its widest point, and 11 mm (0.43 in) from the base of the primer to the tip of the bullet. The cartridge headspaced on the mouth of the case. The bullet itself weighed 0.2 g (3 grains), and was estimated to have a normal muzzle velocity of 200 m/s (650 fps), resulting in a muzzle energy 4.0 joules (3 foot-pounds).

The round was not accepted overly well. The 2 mm Kolibri's small size made handling and loading individual cartridges difficult, and the bullet itself was fairly weak, literature at the time suggesting the round was capable of penetrating only 10–40 mm (0.4 to 1.6 inches) of pine board. The round also suffered some accuracy issues, since the technology of the time was incapable of applying rifling to the bore of such a small caliber, resulting in no spin on the bullet.

The series, and most weapons by Franz Pfannl, were discontinued in 1938.

The cartridge (and related firearm series) is now a collector's item, with individual rounds going for over US$70. Original guns for this round can sell for US$5,000.

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