RIA is a company located in the Phillipines. They are mostly known for building 1911 pistols for the US military. They are still making guns today. The pistols they make are of very high quality. As a matter of fact I think you would be hard pressed to find a 1911 more true to it's origins, and being a $400.00 pistol brand new they are probably better then the more expensive ones by Para and Springfield. Shoot one and see for yourself.