Description
There's a reason the 1911 Government model has been around for over a century, and Colt has been building it longer than anyone. This bright stainless version chambered in .38 Super is one of those guns that stops people mid-conversation at the range. The high-polish stainless finish catches light in a way that blued guns simply don't, and paired with the classic double diamond rosewood grip panels, it looks like something out of a different era in the best possible way.
Under the hood, this is the real deal. Colt spec'd it with a 5-inch National Match barrel, the Series 70 firing system (no firing pin block, just the clean, uncluttered trigger geometry that 1911 purists love), and a serrated stainless slide for solid purchase when you rack it. The beavertail grip safety and standard thumb safety give you the full classic 1911 safety package. Fixed white dot sights front and rear keep the sight picture simple and familiar.
The .38 Super itself is worth talking about. It's a cartridge with a legitimate competitive history, long favored in IPSC and USPSA Open division for its ability to reach major power factor with factory loads. It fires a .355-inch bullet at higher velocity than standard 9mm, and in a heavy steel 1911 frame, the recoil comes across as a firm push rather than a sharp snap. The 9+1 capacity gives you a slight edge over .45 ACP configurations on a standard Government frame.
This gun appeals to a pretty specific buyer: the person who wants a quality American-made 1911 with a premium finish, a serious barrel, and a caliber with real character. It's equally at home as a range gun, a competition starting point, or a centerpiece for a Colt collection. One 9-round magazine is included from the factory.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Colt's Manufacturing
- MPN: O1911C-BS38
- UPC: 098289113504
- Caliber: .38 Super Auto
- Action: Single-Action Semi-Auto
- Firing System: Series 70
- Barrel Length: 5"
- Barrel Type: National Match
- Overall Length: 8.5"
- Weight: 35 oz (approx.)
- Capacity: 9+1
- Frame Material: Steel
- Finish: Bright Stainless
- Grips: Double Diamond Rosewood
- Sights: Fixed White Dot Front and Rear
- Safety: Thumb Safety, Beavertail Grip Safety
What’s Included
- Colt 1911 Government Pistol (.38 Super, Bright Stainless)
- 1 x 9-Round Magazine
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Series 70 firing system and why does it matter on the Colt 1911 Government?
The Series 70 firing system is Colt's original 1911 design without a passive firing pin block. Many experienced 1911 shooters prefer it because removing that mechanical linkage from the trigger path results in a cleaner, crisper trigger pull. It's one of the most requested features in a traditional 1911, and the O1911C-BS38 includes it from the factory.
What are the advantages of .38 Super over 9mm in a 1911 platform?
The .38 Super uses a longer case and runs at higher pressure than standard 9mm, which translates to more velocity and energy from the same bullet diameter. In a heavy all-steel 1911 frame, that extra power is well-managed, and the felt recoil tends to be a smooth push rather than a sharp snap. The caliber also has a strong history in IPSC and USPSA competition, where it can meet major power factor requirements with factory-loaded ammunition.
Does the bright stainless finish require any special maintenance?
Stainless steel is significantly more corrosion-resistant than blued carbon steel, which makes it a great choice for humid climates or range guns that see a lot of use. That said, bright polished finishes will show fingerprints and light handling marks more readily than a brushed or matte finish. A light wipe-down with a silicone cloth after handling goes a long way to keeping it looking sharp.
Is the .38 Super hard to find ammunition for?
Factory .38 Super ammunition is less widely available than 9mm or .45 ACP, so it's worth keeping a supply on hand. Major manufacturers like Federal, Winchester, and Fiocchi produce it, and it's available at most well-stocked gun stores and online retailers. Many .38 Super owners also reload their own brass, which is straightforward and gives you more flexibility with loads.
What grips come on the Colt 1911 Government .38 Super Bright Stainless?
This model ships with double diamond checkered rosewood grip panels, which complement the bright stainless finish nicely and provide a solid, textured grip surface. They're the classic Government Model look and feel. Like any 1911, the grip panels are user-replaceable if you want to swap in aftermarket options down the road.
Is this a good 1911 for someone new to the platform?
The Colt Government Model is one of the most well-documented and widely supported 1911s on the market, which makes it a solid choice for someone learning the platform. Parts, holsters, and accessories are abundant. Keep in mind that .38 Super is a less common caliber than 9mm or .45 ACP, so if you're just getting started and prefer easy ammo availability, those options may be simpler. But if the classic Government size, bright stainless finish, and .38 Super caliber speak to you, this is a quality, purpose-built gun worth investing in.




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