The search for a suitable self-loading pistol to replace revolvers in service began in the late 1890s. The 1911 pistol emerged as a result and was quickly adopted by the United States Army on March 29, 1911, after successful trials. Originally designated as Model of the pistol, it was later renamed M1911 in the mid-1920s. The Director of Civilian Marksmanship commenced pistol production for members of the National Rifle Association in August 1912, with around 100 pistols stamped “N.R.A.” below their serial numbers manufactured at Springfield Armory and by Colt. The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps formally adopted the M1911 in 1913. During the United States’ Punitive Expedition against Pancho Villa in 1916, both US Army Cavalry Troops and Infantry Soldiers used the .45 ACP “Model of 1911 U.S. Army.”