The 20mm Solothurn: Unleashing Historic Firepower in Modern Times

The 20mm Solothurn is a true icon of firepower and history. If you're fascinated by big guns and jaw-dropping firepower, get ready to experience an adventure unlike any other. This isn’t just another gun story—it’s a journey that showcases how modern technology continues to honor  World War II-era firepower by reviving some of its greatest weapons. For example, let’s revisit the mighty  20mm Solothurn anti-tank rifle, a spectacular show of force that brings history and innovation together.

The massive 20mm Solothurn anti-tank rifle positioned on a firing range, with a shooter preparing to fire. The large 20x138mm rounds are displayed nearby, emphasizing their size. Background shows a mix of modern and historic targets, with destroyed steel plates and concrete blocks from previous shots.

A Beast from the Past: The 20mm Solothurn

Imagine standing before a massive weapon designed to stop a tank. Among the many weapons developed by mankind, would you have inagined a rifle? The 20mm Solothurn S-18/100, developed in the late 1930s, was engineered to pierce the thick armor of enemy tanks. Nearly a century later, Scott from Kentucky Ballistics brings this legendary firearm back to life. In a world where 0.50 BMG rifles often dominate conversations, the 20mm Solothurn redefines what it means to wield a “big gun.”

Weighing over 120 pounds and nearly seven feet long, this rifle is nothing like what most shooters are used to. The oversized 20x138mm round it fires dwarfs any typical bullet, adding to its larger-than-life presence. For more details on historic firearms like the 20mm Solothurn, check out The Firearm Blog.

The 20mm Solothurn’s History of Destruction

Each  20mm Solothurn 2,330-grain round was originally designed to destroy heavily armored vehicles. True to form, it delivered catastrophic damage to anything it hit: disabling tanks, destroying light vehicles, or downing aircraft. These rounds were vital during World War II, when the need for powerful anti-tank weapons was at its peak.

Fast-forward to the present, and Scott’s excitement about handling this historic weapon is contagious. His modern-day exploration of the Solothurn brings a fresh perspective to some of the internet’s most exhilarating gun content. Want to learn more about iconic weapons from history? Visit Military Factory.

Modern-Day Mayhem: Firing the 20mm Solothurn

Firing the 20mm Solothurn is far from an ordinary shooting experience. Its size and weight make it feel more like operating artillery than a traditional firearm. Scott used a bike chain and crank system to cock the rifle—an old-school method that’s fitting for such a historic weapon.

As soon as Scott loaded the first round and switched the safety off, tension started to build. An earth-shattering blast, a flash of light, and an obliterated target followed. The Solothurn lived up to its reputation as it effortlessly punched holes through steel plates and reduced concrete blocks to rubble. Learn more about Scott's experiences on Kentucky Ballistics.

The Recoil and Precision You Won’t Believe

For such a powerful gun, you probably expected uncontrollable recoil. Thanks to the rifle's hefty weight, advanced muzzle brake, and reciprocating barrel system, however, the recoil was surprisingly manageable. Scott expertly handled the force, but even he acknowledged the intensity of each shot. Every trigger pull felt like a mini explosion, adding to the thrill of firing this beast.

Despite its age, the Solothurn remains incredibly accurate. The original scope and iron sights are still intact. It enabled Scott to hit targets with impressive precision, even at long distances. Decades later, the Solothurn remains a fascinating blend of historical firepower and modern shooting skill.

The rifle's two-finger trigger and long, deliberate pull require a steady hand and nerves of steel. Operating such a powerful weapon will connect you to its storied past, offering a direct link to the intensity of combat during the 20th century.

The Legacy of the 20mm Solothurn

The 20mm Solothurn is more than a gun—it’s a piece of history. This relic from World War II stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its creators and the destructive power it delivered. Today, it continues to inspire awe and fascination among gun enthusiasts. Scott’s enthusiasm for sharing this firearm with the world highlights its lasting impact.

Whether you’re a seasoned gun enthusiast or simply curious about powerful machines, the 20mm Solothurn offers an unforgettable experience that bridges the past and present.

P.S. Have you ever encountered a historic firearm like the 20mm Solothurn? Share your stories with us!