COLT 1911 38 SUPER for Sale

Quick Look

Originally introduced by Colt in the early 20th century, the 1911 in .38 Super was designed to meet law enforcement's demand for greater penetration against body armor and steel vehicle bodies. With classic 1911 ergonomics and flatter trajectory than .45 ACP, it offers a unique blend of power and control. Today, the Colt 1911 .38 Super remains a niche but respected choice for competition shooters and collectors alike.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Proven 1911 platform with enhanced .38 Super performance
• Flat-shooting cartridge with excellent velocity
• Strong aftermarket support for upgrades and tuning
• Favored for competition and target accuracy
• Historical significance and collectible value

Key Variants

Colt Government Model .38 Super

Full-size classic for target shooters and 1911 traditionalists seeking maximum accuracy.

Colt Combat Commander .38 Super

Shorter barrel option ideal for carrying or competition use in faster-paced stages.

Colt El Centenario .38 Super

Limited-edition model built for the Mexican market and collectors of rare variants.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Colt 1911 .38 Super	Springfield 1911 Range Officer	Rock Island Armory 1911 .38 Super
MSRP	$900–$1,200	$800–$1,000	$500–$700
Capacity	9+1	9+1	9+1
Weight	≈39 oz	≈40 oz	≈41 oz
Optics-Ready	No	No	No
Trigger Type	Single-action	Single-action	Single-action
Notable Pro	Strong historical pedigree	Match-grade barrel	Value-priced
Notable Con	Limited factory availability	Harder to find ammo	Fit/finish varies

Best Use Cases

• Competition shooting
• Range practice
• Personal collection
• Self-defense (with proper loads)

FAQs

What is .38 Super best known for?

.38 Super is valued for its flat trajectory and high velocity, especially in competition and carry.

Can I convert a Colt 1911 .38 Super to 9mm?

Yes, with a conversion barrel and possibly magazine swap, but fitting may be required.

How does the Colt 1911 .38 Super compare to .45 ACP models?

It offers less recoil, flatter trajectory, and higher velocity, but lacks .45's widespread ammo availability.