This timeline focuses on John Browning's contributions to military firearms, designing weapons that saw widespread use in conflicts throughout the 20th century.
Colt M1900
1900
Browning designed the Colt Model 1900, a recoil-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in .38 ACP. While not a massive success, it laid the groundwork for future Colt and Browning pistol designs.
Colt M1911 Pistol
1911
Browning designed the Colt M1911 pistol, a recoil-operated, single-action, semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP. It was adopted as the standard sidearm for the U.S. military and served in that role for over 70 years. Its influence on pistol design is undeniable.
Browning .50 Caliber Machine Gun (M2)
1917
Browning designed the M2 .50 caliber machine gun, a heavy machine gun that remains in service around the world today. It is a testament to its robust and effective design, serving in a variety of roles from anti-aircraft defense to vehicle-mounted weaponry.
Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR)
1917
Browning designed the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), a select-fire, air-cooled, gas-operated automatic rifle. Adopted by the US military, it provided infantry squads with increased firepower.
