What is the Smallest Pistol?
When it comes to firearms, size matters. For many gun enthusiasts, the smaller the pistol, the more convenient and portable it is. But what is the smallest pistol that exists? In this article, we’ll explore the world of tiny pistols and find out what the smallest one is.
What is the Definition of a Pistol?
Before we dive into the smallest pistols, let’s define what a pistol is. A pistol is a type of handgun that is designed to be held and fired with one hand. It typically has a short barrel and a compact design, making it easy to carry and conceal. There are many types of pistols, including revolvers, semi-automatics, and derringers.
The Smallest Pistol: A Brief History
The concept of a small pistol dates back to the 19th century, when inventors and gunsmiths were experimenting with new designs and materials. One of the earliest examples of a small pistol is the derringer, which was invented by Henry Deringer in the 1850s. The derringer was a small, single-shot pistol that was designed to be carried in a pocket or purse.
The Smallest Pistol Today
Fast-forward to the present day, and we have a wide range of small pistols available. From pocket-sized revolvers to tiny semi-automatics, there’s a small pistol out there for everyone. But what is the smallest pistol that exists?
The Winner: The Kahr PM9
According to various sources, including gun experts and enthusiasts, the smallest pistol in the world is the Kahr PM9. The PM9 is a semi-automatic pistol that is designed to be compact and lightweight. It has a barrel length of just 3.6 inches and a overall length of 5.9 inches. It weighs a mere 16.2 ounces, making it one of the lightest pistols on the market.
Here are some key features of the Kahr PM9:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Barrel length: 3.6 inches
- Overall length: 5.9 inches
- Weight: 16.2 ounces
- Capacity: 7+1 rounds
- Action: Single-action only
Other Contenders
While the Kahr PM9 is the smallest pistol in the world, there are other contenders that are worth mentioning. Some of these include:
- Rimfire pistols: These are small, single-shot pistols that are designed to fire rimfire cartridges. They are often used for target shooting and are very affordable.
- Pocket pistols: These are small, single-shot pistols that are designed to be carried in a pocket or purse. They are often used for self-defense and are very popular among concealed carry enthusiasts.
- Micro-pistols: These are extremely small pistols that are designed to be carried in a pocket or purse. They are often used for self-defense and are very popular among concealed carry enthusiasts.
Here are some key features of these pistols:
| Pistol | Caliber | Barrel length | Overall length | Weight | Capacity | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rimfire pistol | .22 LR | 2.5 inches | 4.5 inches | 8 ounces | 1 round | Single-shot |
| Pocket pistol | .380 ACP | 2.5 inches | 4.5 inches | 10 ounces | 6+1 rounds | Single-action only |
| Micro-pistol | .25 ACP | 1.5 inches | 3.5 inches | 6 ounces | 6+1 rounds | Single-action only |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the smallest pistol in the world is the Kahr PM9. With its compact design and lightweight construction, it is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a small pistol that is easy to carry and conceal. Whether you’re a gun enthusiast or a self-defense expert, the Kahr PM9 is definitely worth considering.
Additional Tips
- When choosing a small pistol, make sure to consider your needs and preferences. Think about what you’ll be using the pistol for and what features are most important to you.
- Always handle firearms safely and responsibly. Make sure to follow all local laws and regulations, and never point a firearm at someone or something you don’t intend to harm.
- Consider taking a firearms safety course to learn more about handling and using small pistols safely and effectively.
By following these tips and considering the features of the Kahr PM9, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect small pistol for your needs.
