Colt .38 Super 1911

Published on September 24, 2015
Duration: 25:40

This review of the Colt .38 Super 1911 highlights its historical significance in competition shooting and its continued popularity, especially internationally. Hickok45 demonstrates its accuracy and shootability, comparing the .38 Super cartridge to 9mm and .45 ACP. The video emphasizes the caliber's performance benefits, particularly its ability to achieve 'Major' power factor with higher capacity than .45 ACP, and discusses technical improvements that enhance its accuracy.

Quick Summary

The Colt .38 Super 1911 is praised for its shootability and low recoil. Historically dominant in IPSC/USPSA, its accuracy improved with modern barrels headspacing on the case mouth. It remains popular internationally due to caliber restrictions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt .38 Super 1911
  2. 00:37.38 Super vs. 9mm Cartridge Comparison
  3. 02:35Ballistics & Performance of .38 Super
  4. 06:05Competition History: IPSC/USPSA Dominance
  5. 11:15Technical Evolution: Accuracy Improvements
  6. 12:50International Popularity of .38 Super
  7. 18:00Final Assessment & Accuracy Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the .38 Super cartridge unique compared to 9mm?

The .38 Super cartridge is longer than 9mm and features a semi-rimmed case. It offers ballistics comparable to a 'hotter' 9mm or .357 Sig, typically firing 115-125 grain bullets at 1,200-1,300 fps.

Why was the .38 Super popular in early competition shooting like IPSC?

The .38 Super was favored in early IPSC and USPSA competitions because it could achieve the 'Major' power factor required for high scores while offering a higher magazine capacity (9-10 rounds) than the .45 ACP.

How has the accuracy of the .38 Super 1911 improved over time?

Early .38 Super barrels had accuracy issues due to headspacing on the rim. Modern barrels have significantly improved precision by headspacing on the case mouth instead.

Why is the .38 Super still popular in some countries?

In many Latin American countries, civilian ownership of military calibers like 9mm Parabellum or .45 ACP is restricted. The .38 Super serves as a high-performance alternative that complies with these regulations.

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