This is the Erika, developed by Franz Pfannl and chambered for the 4.25mm Liliput cartridge (which develops approximately 1/4 the energy of the .25 ACP).
These pistols were actually carried for personal protection, under the theory that any gun was better than no gun, and that the presentation and threat of a gunshot would be sufficient to dissuade an attacker (or with the idea of using them on stray dogs, for example).
Practicality aside, the mechanical internals of tiny pistols like this Erika are quite interesting to see, simple because of their minute size. Pfannl really was part gunsmith and part watchmaker…
Ian’s video: [8:56] https://youtu.be/7PaUNIbztus?si=
https://www.forgottenweapons.com/erika-4-25mm-pistol-at-ria/
The muzzle energy of a .25 ACP is around 60 ft lbs (.22 LR is ~ 75). One quarter, then, is about 15 ft lbs. That probably beats poking them with a sharp stick. Probably.
