The 9mm Flobert ammunition is a unique cartridge that occupies a special niche in the world of firearms. Originally developed in the mid-19th century, it was named after its inventor, the French gunsmith Louis-Nicolas Flobert. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the history, characteristics, areas of application and special features of 9mm Flobert ammunition.

History and development

The 9mm Flobert ammunition was created at a time when the development of firearms and ammunition was making great progress. Louis-Nicolas Flobert is considered the pioneer of rimfire ammunition, in which the primer is attached to the rim of the cartridge. The first Flobert cartridges were originally intended for indoor or small garden shooting and were characterized by a very low powder charge or the complete absence of gunpowder. The bullets were only propelled by the primer charge in the base of the cartridge.

Technical specifications

The 9mm Flobert cartridge is available in various versions, including round ball and shot. The ammunition is mainly produced in two variants:

• 9mm Flobert bullet: this variant uses a small lead bullet as the projectile. It is designed for short-range shooting, with sufficient accuracy and penetration for hunting very small animals or pests.
• 9mm Flobert shot: This version is filled with shot pellets and resembles a miniature shotgun. It is often used for controlling pests and small animals or for sport shooting.

Despite the designation "9mm", the actual diameter of Flobert cartridges varies and can differ depending on the manufacturer and intended use.

Fields of application

The main areas of application for 9mm Flobert ammunition are in pest control, recreational shooting and specialized areas of hunting. Due to its limited range and penetrating power, it is particularly suitable for use in populated areas or near residential areas where safety and minimizing collateral damage are priorities.

• Pest control: Ideal for controlling rodents and small pests at short distances.
• Recreational shooting: Because of their low volume and recoil, 9mm Flobert guns are popular with shooting sports enthusiasts for practice and competitions.
• Hunting: In some regions they are used for hunting small animals such as hares or pheasants under specific conditions.

Legal aspects

The legal treatment of 9mm Flobert ammunition and associated firearms varies greatly from country to country. In some areas they are classified as firearms and are subject to corresponding possession and use regulations, while in other regions they are less strictly regulated. Potential users should always check local laws and regulations.

Conclusion

The 9mm Flobert cartridge is an interesting relic from the early days of firearms development that is still used today in certain niche areas. Its low volume, minimal recoil and specialized uses make it a unique option for shooting sports, hunting and pest control. Despite its limited distribution, the 9mm Flobert remains a fascinating part of firearms history and culture.