The M1 carbine (formally known as the US Carbine, Caliber .30, M1) is a lightweight semi-automatic carbine that was a standard firearm for the U.S. military during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The M1 carbine was produced in several variants and was widely used by paramilitary and police forces around the world, and also became a popular civilian firearm after World War II. The M1A1 Carbine was designed in 1941 to be a replacement for the Colt M1911 sidearm and the M1 Garand rifle. Though criticized by its stopping power at close and long range, the M1A1 Carbine was manufactured by the millions by the end of the second World War.