The 1911 pistol originated in the late 1890s as the result of a search for a suitable self-loading (or semi-automatic) pistol to replace the variety of revolvers then in service. The United States was adopting new firearms at a phenomenal rate. Following its success in trials, the Colt 1911 pistol was formally adopted by the Army on March 29, 1911, when it was designated Model of the pistol, later changed in 1917, and then M1911, in the mid-1920s. The Director of Civilian Marksmanship began the manufacture of pistols for members of the National Rifle Association in August 1912. Approximately 100 pistols stamped “N.R.A.” below the serial number were manufactured at Springfield Armory and by Colt. The M1911 was formally adopted by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in 1913. The .45 ACP “Model of 1911 U.S. Army” was used by both US Army Cavalry Troops and Infantry Soldiers during the United States’ Punitive Expedition into Mexico against Pancho Villa in 1916. Today the 1911 airsoft pistol is one of the most popular airsoft guns sold at Just BB Guns.