Colt 1911 38 Super Auto Review : The Obscure, Popular Caliber

Published on September 20, 2021
Duration: 18:45

This review of the Colt 1911 Government Model in .38 Super Auto explores its unique position as an obscure yet popular caliber. The .38 Super offers higher capacity and competitive power factor advantages over the .45 ACP with less recoil, making it suitable for faster follow-up shots. Despite some cartridge design challenges and higher ammo costs, it remains a favorite for reloaders and enthusiasts.

Quick Summary

The .38 Super caliber, popular in competitive shooting like IPSC/USPSA, offers 'Major' power factor with less recoil than .45 ACP. It fires lighter bullets faster (130gr @ 1200 fps) for flatter trajectory, comparable to .357 SIG, enabling quicker follow-up shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1911 .38 Super
  2. 01:07History of the .38 Super Caliber
  3. 03:09.38 Super vs .45 ACP: Capacity & Competition
  4. 04:03Ballistics Comparison: .38 Super vs .45 ACP
  5. 06:01.38 Super Cartridge Design Challenges
  6. 07:47Colt Government Model Features
  7. 10:12Alternative .38 Super Handguns
  8. 12:12Range Test: Shooting Impressions
  9. 14:03Historical Trivia & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of the .38 Super caliber in competitive shooting?

The .38 Super caliber allows competitive shooters to achieve a 'Major' power factor with less recoil than the .45 ACP. This combination of power and reduced recoil enables faster follow-up shots, which is crucial for scoring well in disciplines like IPSC and USPSA.

How does the .38 Super compare ballistically to the .45 ACP?

Ballistically, the .38 Super typically fires a lighter bullet (e.g., 130gr) at a higher velocity (around 1200 fps), resulting in a flatter trajectory. The .45 ACP uses a heavier bullet (e.g., 230gr) at a lower velocity (around 850 fps), offering more momentum but a slower, arcing path.

What are the potential feeding issues with the .38 Super cartridge?

The .38 Super features a semi-rimmed case design. While effective in single-stack 1911 pistols, the rim can sometimes catch or cause feeding problems in double-stack magazines, leading some manufacturers to produce rimless variants.

Is the .38 Super a good caliber for self-defense?

The .38 Super offers good performance, comparable to .357 SIG in some loadings, and provides higher capacity than a .45 ACP 1911. Its flatter trajectory and manageable recoil make it a viable option, though .45 ACP and 9mm are more common choices.

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