The Legacy of a Legend
The Colt Commander. The name itself evokes images of sleek steel, confident handling, and a rich history deeply intertwined with the evolution of the modern handgun. Introduced in the mid-1950s, the Commander was a revolutionary concept: a full-power cartridge pistol built on a shorter, more concealable frame than the iconic Colt Government Model, making it ideal for everyday carry. Its aluminum alloy frame offered significant weight savings compared to its steel counterparts. But what about the version chambered in the powerful .38 Super? Does the Colt 38 Super Commander still hold its own in today’s crowded firearms market? This article will delve into its history, features, performance, and lasting appeal to answer that very question. Is the Colt 38 Super Commander truly a modern classic, or has it been surpassed by newer designs?
A Deep Dive into History and Cartridge Evolution
The story of the Colt Commander is a story of innovation born from necessity. After World War II, there was a growing demand for a more compact, easily concealed handgun suitable for law enforcement and personal defense. Colt answered this call with the Commander, a pistol that retained the proven single-action operating system, reliable feeding, and familiar controls of the 1911 platform but packaged it in a smaller, more manageable form. This was a pivotal moment in the evolution of the 1911 design, demonstrating its adaptability.
And what of the cartridge? The .38 Super, developed in the late 1920s, was designed to offer enhanced performance compared to the .38 ACP cartridge. Its increased power was achieved through higher pressures, making it capable of delivering impressive velocities and kinetic energy. Initially, it was intended to address the shortcomings of the .38 ACP in terms of stopping power, particularly against the protection afforded by some early body armor. The .38 Super quickly found a home among law enforcement and target shooters, especially in regions where the cartridge had a strong following and was readily available. It offered excellent accuracy and penetration, making it a formidable choice for various shooting disciplines.
The marriage of the Commander platform with the .38 Super cartridge created a potent combination. The Commander’s shorter barrel and lighter frame, combined with the .38 Super’s power, provided a balance between concealability, handling characteristics, and stopping power that resonated with shooters who valued both performance and practicality.
Examining Essential Design Elements
The Colt 38 Super Commander distinguished itself with a unique blend of features. While the frame might be constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy or, in some variations, steel, the key elements that defined the platform remained consistent.
The single-action operating system, a hallmark of the 1911 design, provides a crisp, clean trigger pull after the manual action of cocking the hammer. This characteristic enhances accuracy and precision, making it ideal for target shooting and defensive applications. The 1911 platform’s well-designed ergonomics, offering a comfortable grip and intuitive controls, contributed to the Commander’s overall handling characteristics. The presence of a grip safety and a manual thumb safety ensured safe handling and transport.
The Commander typically featured a barrel length shorter than that of the Government Model, usually around four and a quarter inches. This reduction in length allowed for a more compact profile, enhancing concealability without significantly compromising ballistic performance. The overall dimensions of the Commander made it easy to carry concealed in a variety of holsters, from inside-the-waistband designs to shoulder holsters.
Sights, often a fixed design, were typically robust and adequate for general shooting and defense. However, the classic 1911 platform also allowed for the easy addition of aftermarket sights to optimize the pistol for specific shooting styles. The finish options, ranging from blued steel to stainless steel, provided shooters with choices that suited their preferences for aesthetics and durability. The .38 Super version also had design considerations to handle the higher pressures of the round.
The magazine capacity in standard configuration provided a reasonable amount of ammunition, offering a balance between firepower and concealability. This was another factor in the gun’s appeal, balancing power with ease of carry.
Evaluating Performance and Operational Experience
The Colt 38 Super Commander’s performance is a key factor in its appeal. The .38 Super cartridge, known for its flat trajectory and impressive energy, delivers good accuracy in a well-made pistol. Shooters often find they can achieve tight groupings at moderate distances, contributing to its effectiveness in a variety of roles.
The cartridge’s flat trajectory also made it a good choice for longer-range target shooting. The .38 Super’s velocity translates into significant stopping power. It provided reliable performance against barriers and potential threats. The overall ballistic performance of the Colt 38 Super Commander offered a compelling balance between power and control.
Recoil, though more pronounced than with cartridges such as 9mm, is still manageable, owing in part to the Commander’s weight and the efficient design of the 1911 platform. Skilled shooters can maintain rapid and accurate follow-up shots. Its ergonomics, specifically the grip angle and overall balance, also contributed to how easily the pistol points naturally, making it easier to handle.
Field stripping and maintenance, an essential aspect of firearm ownership, are relatively straightforward with the Commander. The 1911 design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning, which is a key factor in maintaining performance and prolonging the life of the firearm.
Assessing the Merits and Weaknesses
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Colt 38 Super Commander is no exception. Understanding both sides is important when evaluating its suitability for any purpose.
The pros of the Commander, especially in .38 Super, are clear. The high power of the .38 Super cartridge provides a real advantage in both stopping power and range. Its relatively compact size makes it much easier to carry concealed than its full-size counterparts. The design’s classic feel and build quality are attractive to many. It offers excellent reliability, as long as the pistol is properly maintained and fed with quality ammunition. The 1911 platform’s single-action trigger provides precise shot placement, enhancing the gun’s appeal. Moreover, a wide array of aftermarket parts allows for extensive customization, from enhanced grips to updated sights and trigger systems.
However, the Commander also has its cons. The availability and cost of .38 Super ammunition can sometimes be a concern. While .38 Super is more common now than it was, it is not as widely available as 9mm or .45 ACP. Over-penetration can be a potential issue with some loads, especially in urban environments. The original 1911 design isn’t the easiest to learn, although many modern shooters have experience with similar single-action platforms. Its price can be relatively high when compared to some modern striker-fired pistols, and it also requires a degree of maintenance to remain reliable.
The Commander in the Current Firearms Landscape
The Colt 38 Super Commander is still available today, although it is not as prevalent as other models. Depending on the production year, the pistol can be found on the used market, and there are companies that have produced new versions. The ongoing popularity of the 1911 platform ensures that demand for these guns will remain strong, even among collectors.
Is the Colt 38 Super Commander a viable choice today? The answer depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. It remains a potentially excellent choice for concealed carry, providing potent performance in a relatively compact package. In the realm of competitive shooting, the .38 Super’s trajectory and power make it a solid option for certain disciplines. For self-defense, the cartridge’s stopping power is undeniable. And for collectors, its historical significance and classic design make it a prized possession.
Compared to more modern handguns, the Colt 38 Super Commander brings unique traits to the table. Its single-action trigger offers a crisper pull than many striker-fired pistols, and its all-metal construction provides a reassuring feeling of quality. However, it may have lower capacity than some modern options, and the manual of arms can be a learning curve for some shooters.
Exploring the World of Customization
One of the great advantages of the 1911 platform, and by extension, the Colt 38 Super Commander, is the extensive aftermarket support. Owners can customize their pistols to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Upgrading sights is a common modification. Improved sights can greatly enhance accuracy. Adding a red dot sight is now possible on some models.
The trigger system can also be upgraded to provide a lighter, crisper pull, leading to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience. The grips can be replaced with more ergonomic and visually appealing options. The firearm’s finish can be modified, using cerakote or other specialized coatings. This improves durability and the pistol’s aesthetic qualities.
The availability of parts and accessories ensures that owners can tailor their Commander to their exact specifications, further enhancing its versatility and appeal. The vast range of available options makes it easy to create a truly unique handgun.
Concluding Thoughts on an Enduring Design
The Colt 38 Super Commander, with its historical roots and unique blend of features, remains an intriguing choice for a variety of shooters. It embodies a classic design, offering a potent cartridge in a package that balances concealability with handling and performance. While it may not be the most modern option in terms of features or ammunition availability, its timeless appeal, potential for customization, and inherent quality still resonate with many.
Considering the question posed at the beginning of this discussion: Is the Colt 38 Super Commander a modern classic? The answer, in many ways, is yes. It represents a pivotal moment in firearm design. It carries a heritage that continues to draw admiration. It delivers solid performance in a platform that’s easy to carry. For those who appreciate its history, its design, and its performance, the Colt 38 Super Commander continues to provide a satisfying and reliable shooting experience. Those looking for a classic pistol with significant power and a classic feel need look no further than the Commander. It’s a testament to a design that continues to endure.
