Description
The Iver Johnson 1911A1 38 Super 5″ Chrome Black Wood Grips is a Series 70 Government-style pistol that brings back the classic feel of a 1911 with a bright polish chrome finish and black diamondwood grips. Chambered in .38 Super, this handgun offers a flat-shooting round with a 5″ barrel, a serrated steel slide and frame, and a beavertail with grip safety for traditional ergonomics. It ships with one magazine, a manual, a gun lock, and a hard lockable case, making it a ready-to-carry option for EDC enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics with modern reliability.
| Manufacturer | Iver Johnson |
|---|---|
| Model | 1911A1 Series 70 |
| Material | Steel slide and frame |
| Compatibility | .38 Super cartridges |
| Finish | Bright polish chrome |
| Weight | 39 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Bright Polish Chrome Finish — This isn’t just for looks; the chrome resists corrosion and wear, keeping the pistol looking sharp even after daily carry in humid or coastal environments.
- Black Diamondwood Grips — These grips add a touch of class while providing a secure hold, reducing slip during rapid fire or one-handed manipulations.
- Beavertail with Grip Safety — The beavertail prevents slide bite and the grip safety ensures the gun only fires when properly held, a classic safety feature that still works.
- Fixed Sights — Simple, durable, and snag-free, these sights are ideal for defensive use where you need a clear sight picture without worrying about adjustments.
- Series 70 Firing System — No firing pin block means a lighter trigger pull and a more traditional 1911 feel, which many shooters prefer for accuracy and speed.
Who It’s For
This pistol is built for the EDC enthusiast who wants a .38 Super for its flat trajectory and mild recoil, or for anyone who appreciates a classic 1911 with a polished look that stands out in a pocket dump. It’s also a solid choice for collectors who want a shooter-grade gun with vintage appeal.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Chrome finish is easy to clean and durable; .38 Super offers less recoil than .45 ACP with higher capacity; traditional 1911 ergonomics work for most hands; includes a hard case and lock.
- Cons: The bright chrome finish can show fingerprints and smudges more than matte finishes, so you’ll need to wipe it down regularly.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Iver Johnson 1911A1 .38 Super | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms Syndicate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Super | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 5″ | 4.5″ | 4.7″ |
| Finish | Bright polish chrome | Black nitride | Black DLC |
| Grip | Black diamondwood | Textured polymer | G10 |
| Safety | Grip safety + thumb safety | Thumb safety only | Thumb safety only |
| Price | $1,059.57 | $1,800+ | $1,500+ |
The Iver Johnson 1911A1 gives you a traditional 1911 platform with a unique caliber at a fraction of the cost of custom builds.
FAQ
Is this pistol reliable for daily carry?
Yes, the Iver Johnson 1911A1 uses a Series 70 design with a steel frame and slide, which is proven reliable. The .38 Super round feeds well with the proper magazine, and the chrome finish resists rust, making it suitable for EDC provided you keep it lubricated.
Does it come with extra magazines?
It ships with one magazine. You can purchase additional .38 Super 1911 magazines from brands like Wilson Combat or Check-Mate for spares.
What holsters are compatible with this model?
Any holster designed for a full-size 1911 with a 5″ barrel will work. Look for leather or Kydex options that accommodate the beavertail and thumb safety. The bright chrome finish may show holster wear faster, so consider a lined holster.
Is .38 Super hard to find?
.38 Super is less common than 9mm or .45 ACP, but it’s available online and at larger retailers. It’s a popular round for competition and self-defense, so supply is steady.
Ready to Add This to Your EDC Rotation?
This Iver Johnson 1911A1 in .38 Super delivers a classic look with a polished chrome finish and black diamondwood grips that stand out in any pocket dump. Whether you’re a collector or a daily carrier, this pistol offers reliable performance with a vintage edge. Order now for nationwide delivery to all 50 states, ships in 1-2 business days, with a 30-day return policy and secure checkout.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Browse more: Semi Auto Handguns | 1911 Pistols | EDC Gear
Last updated: April 2026
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