Description
The Colt 1911 Pistol 38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless 9 rd. is a modern take on a proven classic. Chambered in .38 Super, this full-size Government model gives you a 9+1 capacity, a 5-inch barrel, and a bright stainless finish that holds up to daily carry or range use. It’s built on Colt’s solid steel frame with double diamond rosewood grips and fixed white dot sights. This is a no-nonsense 1911 for shooters who want extra punch and classic looks.
| Manufacturer | Colt (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 1991 Government .38 Super |
| Material | Steel frame and slide |
| Finish | Bright stainless |
| Weight | 35 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Capacity | 9+1 rounds |
| Overall Length | 8.5 inches |
Key Features
- .38 Super Chambering – Delivers higher velocity and flatter trajectory than standard 9mm, giving you more energy on target.
- Bright Stainless Finish – Resists corrosion and looks sharp out of the box. Wipes clean easy after a day at the range.
- Double Diamond Rosewood Grips – Provide a secure hold without being too aggressive. They also keep the traditional 1911 look intact.
- Fixed White Dot Sights – Allow quick front sight pickup in low light. Great for defensive use or target shooting.
- Single Action Trigger – Crisp, short pull that experienced 1911 shooters expect. Makes follow-up shots fast and accurate.
Who It’s For
This Colt is for the shooter who wants a .38 Super 1911 that’s ready out of the box. It fits collectors, competition shooters, and anyone who appreciates a stainless Government model. If you’re new to 1911s, the .38 Super gives you less recoil than .45 ACP but more velocity than 9mm. It’s a solid choice for range days or home defense.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Reliable feeding with JHP and ball ammo, classic Colt fit and finish, 9-round capacity in a full-size frame, easy to clean and maintain.
- Cons: .38 Super ammo costs more than 9mm and isn’t as common at every shop. The bright finish shows holster wear faster than a matte or parkerized finish.
How It Stacks Up
| Feature | Colt 1911 .38 Super | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms AOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Super | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches | 4.5 inches | 5 inches |
| Capacity | 9+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 |
| Finish | Bright stainless | Black nitride | Cerakote options |
| Price | $1,488.03 | ~$2,200 | ~$2,500 |
FAQ
What ammo does the Colt .38 Super 1911 shoot best?
It runs reliably with 130-grain FMJ ball ammo for practice and 115-grain JHP for defense. Stick to factory loads at first. Per Colt specs, the barrel is cut for standard .38 Super Auto cartridges.
Is the bright stainless finish hard to maintain?
It’s easy to clean with a soft cloth and mild solvent. The bright finish can show scratches more than a matte finish, but it resists rust well. A light coat of oil after cleaning keeps it looking good.
Can I use .38 Super +P ammo in this Colt?
Yes, the steel frame and barrel handle +P loads fine. Expect a little more muzzle flip, but the gun is built for it. Always check your manual for max pressure specs.
Does this Colt come with extra magazines?
It ships with one 9-round magazine. Extra .38 Super mags from Colt or Checkmate fit and run reliably. I’d pick up at least two more for the range.
Trust & Delivery
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026. According to the NRA, .38 Super has seen a 15% increase in shooter interest over the last two years. This Colt is a solid choice for that growing crowd.
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