<Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (March 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> A semi-automatic firearm, or self - loading firearm, is one that not only fires a bullet each time the trigger is pulled, but also performs all steps necessary to prepare it to discharge again--assuming cartridges remain in the firearm's feed device . Typically, this includes extracting and ejecting the spent cartridge case from the firing chamber, re-cocking the firing mechanism, and loading a new cartridge into the firing chamber . To fire again, the trigger is released and re-pressed . </P> <P> Ferdinand Ritter von Mannlicher produced the first successful design for a semi-automatic rifle in 1885, and by the early 20th century, many manufacturers had introduced semi-automatic shotguns, rifles and pistols . </P> <P> In military use, self - loading rifles were barely used in World War I, and most armies in World War II also still relied upon bolt - action rifles, with the exception of the Americans, who in 1937 had adopted the M1 Garand as the standard - issue infantry weapon . </P>

When was the first semi auto rifle made