Colt Firearms was an Earth projectile weapon manufacturer. In 1873, Colt Firearms invented the Colt .45 single action cavalry pistol. (TNG: "Time's Arrow" ) During the 20th century, Colt Firearms also made the M1911 series pistols and the M16 series automatic rifles, both of which still saw extensive service with the US Armed Forces well into the 21st century. (Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home; VOY: "The Killing Game", "The Killing Game, Part II") According to the Star Trek Encyclopedia (4th ed., vol. 1, p. 153) , Colt Firearms was founded in 1847 by Samuel Colt.