Colt 1911 Government .38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless
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About this product
The Colt 1911 Government .38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless is a full-size semi-automatic pistol chambered in .38 Super Auto with a 5-inch barrel and bright stainless steel construction. It maintains the classic 1911 design with modern corrosion resistance and is shipped with one removable magazine. This model is built for precision shooting, collecting, and range use, adhering to the original Government specifications with updated materials.
What is the Colt 1911 Government .38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless used for?
This pistol is designed for range shooting, target practice, and collecting due to its classic design and reliable performance. Its 5-inch barrel provides excellent accuracy for precision work, and the stainless steel finish ensures durability against corrosion. It's not intended for concealed carry due to its full-size frame and weight.
How does the Colt 1911 Government .38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Colt 1911 excels in handgun precision and rapid semi-automatic fire, while the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is better for long-range accuracy and hunting. The Colt offers a 8-round magazine capacity and faster follow-up shots, whereas the Stevens provides higher energy per round and a 20-inch barrel for extended range. Choose the Colt for handgun disciplines and the Stevens for rifle applications.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 38 ounces unloaded and measures 8.5 inches in length, 5.5 inches in height, and 1.3 inches in width. Its 5-inch barrel contributes to a sight radius of 6.75 inches, enhancing aiming precision. The steel frame adds heft, making it stable during firing but less portable than compact models.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not suitable for concealed carry enthusiasts or those seeking a lightweight firearm. Its 38-ounce weight and full-size dimensions make it bulky for everyday carry, and it lacks modern features like accessory rails. New shooters might find the .38 Super recoil and manual safety challenging compared to smaller calibers.
What's in the box?
The box includes the pistol, one 8-round stainless steel magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual. No additional accessories like holsters or cleaning kits are provided, so buyers should budget for those separately. The packaging is standard Colt issue, ensuring safe transport and storage.
Is the Colt 1911 Government .38 Super 5″ Bright Stainless worth it at $1488.99?
At $1488.99, it's a justified investment for collectors and serious shooters who value Colt's heritage and stainless durability. Compared to custom 1911s costing over $2000, it offers reliable performance at a lower price point. However, for practical use, a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge might offer more versatility for similar cost.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 38 oz — provides stable shooting platform with reduced recoil
- 5-inch barrel length — offers 6.75-inch sight radius for improved accuracy
- Bright stainless finish — resists corrosion better than blued steel by 3x in salt spray tests
- Includes one 8-round magazine — standard capacity for .38 Super competitions
Trade-offs
- No accessory rail — limits mounting options for lights or lasers without gunsmithing
- Fixed sights — non-adjustable, may require replacement for precision tuning at $50-100
- Heavy at 38 oz — not ideal for carry, 12 oz heavier than compact 1911 models
Key attributes
| upc | 098289113504 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | O1911C-BS38 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 5'' |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Super Auto |
| capacity | 9+1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 8.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 9-Round |
| model | 1911 |
| number of magazines | 1 |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Beavertail |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | White Dot |
| sights type | FIXED |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket 1911 magazines?
- Yes, it accepts standard 1911 .38 Super magazines from brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick. The magazine well is designed to MIL-SPEC dimensions, ensuring reliable feeding. Test with your preferred brand for fit, as tolerances can vary slightly.
- Does it fit in a standard 1911 holster?
- Yes, it fits most holsters designed for full-size 1911 pistols with a 5-inch barrel. The bright stainless finish may require a holster with smooth interior to prevent scratching. Check compatibility with brands like Galco or Safariland for optimal retention.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days within the continental U.S. after FFL verification is complete. Delays may occur during high-demand periods or due to local regulations. Contact customer service for exact timelines based on your location.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the firearm is unfired and in original condition, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Firearms must be shipped back through an FFL dealer for compliance. Review our return policy on the website for detailed steps.