Description
The Colt 1911 Government Classic in .38 Super is a direct nod to the pre-1970s Commercial models that defined American semi-auto handguns. This colt 1911 pistol 38 super 5 in. royal blue 9 rd. brings back the Series 70 firing system, a National Match barrel, and that deep Royal Blue finish that collectors and shooters alike recognize instantly. It’s not a reissue—it’s a continuation of the same build philosophy, with a steel frame, spurred hammer, and staked-on front sight that make it as reliable today as it was decades ago. Per Colt’s current production specs, this pistol weighs 35 ounces empty and carries 9+1 rounds of .38 Super, a cartridge that splits the difference between 9mm and .45 ACP for velocity and magazine capacity.
| Manufacturer | Colt (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Government Classic (Series 70) |
| Material | Steel frame and slide |
| Compatibility | .38 Super (9+1 capacity) |
| Finish | Royal Blue blued finish |
| Weight | 35 ounces (empty, per Colt specs) |
| Condition | New production |
Key features
- Series 70 firing system – No firing pin block means a cleaner trigger pull and faster lock time, which translates to tighter groups at the range.
- National Match barrel – This 5-inch barrel is hand-fitted for accuracy, giving you a consistent point of impact shot after shot.
- Royal Blue finish – This high-polish blued finish is one of the most durable and corrosion-resistant options available, and it looks like a mirror in sunlight.
- Spurred hammer and thumb safety – Traditional single-action controls that are intuitive for anyone who’s shot a 1911, plus the hammer spur gives you a positive grip for cocking.
- Fixed dovetail sights – The front sight is staked, the rear is dovetailed—simple, snag-free, and easy to replace if you want fiber optics or night sights.
Who it’s for
This Colt is built for the shooter who values history and performance in equal measure. If you’re a collector looking for a faithful reproduction of the early Government Models, this fits. If you’re a competition shooter who wants a .38 Super for USPSA or steel matches, the 9+1 capacity and National Match barrel give you a solid platform. It’s also for the everyday carrier who prefers a full-size steel 1911 in a caliber that offers less recoil than .45 ACP but more velocity than 9mm. The Royal Blue finish demands a bit more care than a matte parkerized gun, but that’s part of the appeal for enthusiasts who treat their firearms as tools and art.
Pros / Cons
- Pros: Authentic Series 70 trigger, National Match barrel for accuracy, high-polish Royal Blue finish that holds up well, 9+1 capacity in .38 Super, all-steel construction for durability.
- Cons: Fixed sights limit customization for night/low-light use, the Royal Blue finish shows holster wear faster than matte finishes, and the 35-ounce weight is noticeable for all-day concealed carry.
Comparison
| Feature | Colt 1911 Gov Classic .38 Super | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Super | 9mm | 9mm |
| Frame material | Steel | Polymer/aluminum | Polymer |
| Weight (empty) | 35 oz | 24 oz | 22 oz |
| Trigger system | Series 70 single-action | Zev trigger, striker-fired | Glock-style striker |
| Finish | Royal Blue blued | Black nitride | Black nitride |
| MSRP | $1,488.03 | ~$1,700 | ~$500 |
| Best for | Traditionalists, .38 Super fans | Competition shooters | Budget builders |
What is the .38 Super cartridge good for?
The .38 Super pushes a 124-grain bullet at roughly 1,200-1,300 fps, which gives it less recoil than .45 ACP but more energy than standard 9mm. It’s popular in USPSA for its capacity and flat trajectory, and it’s also a solid defensive option if you want something that penetrates barriers well.
Does this Colt 1911 have a Series 70 or Series 80 firing system?
This is a Series 70 model, so there is no firing pin block. That means the trigger pull is lighter and crisper than Series 80 pistols, which is preferred by many target shooters and 1911 purists.
Can I use this pistol for concealed carry?
At 35 ounces and a 5-inch barrel, it’s a full-size 1911. You can carry it, but you’ll need a sturdy belt and a good holster. The weight helps tame recoil, but the length and heft make it better suited for open carry or range use than daily pocket carry.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from the National Match barrel?
Colt’s National Match barrels are hand-fitted to the slide, and most shooters report sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards with quality factory ammunition. It’s match-grade, not just a marketing term.
Is the Royal Blue finish hard to maintain?
It’s a high-polish blued finish, so it will show fingerprints and light scratches more than a matte or parkerized surface. Wipe it down with a silicone cloth after handling, and avoid storing it in a leather holster for long periods (leather can trap moisture).
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Browse more options in our 1911 Pistols or Colt Firearms categories. Last updated: April 2026.
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