Colt firearms are prestigious, that’s undeniable, but this one, is unreliable. Colt Government .380

Published on April 17, 2022
Duration: 14:23

This video details a gunsmithing attempt to improve the reliability of a Colt Government .380 pistol. The reviewer addresses a specific issue of rounds catching on a high spot in the barrel's throat by meticulously polishing the feed ramp and barrel throat. Despite these efforts and replacing springs, the firearm continues to experience reliability issues, leading to a decision to sell it. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of reliable firearms, even for guns that are otherwise accurate and enjoyable to shoot.

Quick Summary

A common issue causing feeding problems in firearms like the Colt Government .380 is a 'high spot' on the barrel's throat where casings catch. Resolving this involves polishing the feed ramp and barrel throat, replacing springs, and ensuring proper cleaning and lubrication. However, even after these modifications, the Colt Government .380 in this review continued to experience malfunctions, leading to the decision to sell it.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: Colt Government .380 Reliability Test
  2. 00:10Troubleshooting: Identifying Feed Ramp Issues
  3. 00:36DIY Fix: Polishing Feed Ramp and Barrel Throat
  4. 01:22Spring Replacements: Recoil and Firing Pin Springs
  5. 01:55Pre-Range Prep: Cleaning and Lubrication
  6. 02:10Magazine Troubleshooting
  7. 02:27Heading to the Range: Test Ammunition
  8. 03:16Range Day: Final Reliability Assessment
  9. 04:13Ammunition Used: Sgt. Major and Ammo Incorporated
  10. 05:03First Shots with Sgt. Major Ammo
  11. 06:33Encountering a Stovepipe Malfunction
  12. 07:01Magazine Performance Update
  13. 08:32First Round Loading Issue and Slingshot Technique
  14. 10:21Reliability Declines After Initial Success
  15. 11:17Worst Malfunction Encountered
  16. 13:03Final Decision: The Gun is Not Fixed
  17. 13:44Conclusion: Disappointing Range Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

What common issue can cause feeding problems in firearms like the Colt Government .380?

A common issue is a 'high spot' on the inside of the barrel's throat, where cartridge casings can catch during the feeding process. This can lead to jams and malfunctions, requiring polishing of the feed ramp and barrel throat to potentially resolve.

What steps can be taken to improve the reliability of a Colt Government .380 with feeding issues?

Steps include meticulously polishing the feed ramp until it's mirror smooth, polishing the barrel's throat, replacing recoil and firing pin springs, ensuring the firearm is immaculately cleaned, and applying minimal lubrication to the rails.

What types of ammunition were tested in the Colt Government .380 for reliability?

The reviewer tested Sgt. Major 95-grain round nose 380 ACP ammunition (zinc-plated steel case) and Ammo Incorporated 100-grain full metal jacket 380 ACP ammunition. Winchester white box flat nose was also briefly mentioned as causing a stovepipe.

What was the outcome of the reliability testing on the Colt Government .380 after modifications?

Despite initial improvements and some successful shooting, the Colt Government .380 continued to experience reliability issues, including feeding problems and double feeds, after approximately 50 rounds. This led the reviewer to decide the gun was not fixed and would likely be sold.

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