The .38 Super Auto cartridge, despite its age, remains a potent and popular choice for custom builds. This article delves into the fascinating history of the .38 Super Colt, explores its performance characteristics, and examines the exciting world of custom .38 Super pistols.
A Blast from the Past: The History of the .38 Super
Developed in the early 20th century by Colt, the .38 Super Auto was designed as a powerful self-defense and law enforcement round. Its higher velocity and flatter trajectory compared to the .38 ACP made it a significant improvement. While it never achieved the widespread adoption of its predecessor, the .38 Super enjoyed a loyal following among enthusiasts and professionals who appreciated its stopping power. Its legacy continues to this day, especially in the realm of custom gunsmithing.
From Military to Competition: The .38 Super's Evolution
Initially intended for military and police applications, the .38 Super soon found its niche in competitive shooting. Its accuracy and manageable recoil made it ideal for target practice and IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) competitions. This led to a flourishing market for custom .38 Super pistols, with gunsmiths tailoring these firearms to meet the precise demands of competitive shooters.
Performance and Ballistics: What Makes the .38 Super Unique?
The .38 Super's unique characteristics stem from its design. Its higher pressure compared to the .38 ACP allows for a significantly faster bullet velocity, translating to increased energy on target and a flatter trajectory. This combination of power and accuracy is a key reason for its enduring popularity among enthusiasts.
Key Ballistic Characteristics:
- High Velocity: Significantly faster than the .38 ACP, leading to a flatter trajectory and greater effective range.
- Increased Stopping Power: The higher energy transfer to the target results in increased stopping power.
- Accuracy: Known for its accuracy, making it suitable for both self-defense and target shooting.
- Recoil: While manageable, the recoil is noticeably higher than the .38 ACP.
The Allure of Custom .38 Super Pistols: Tailored to Perfection
The appeal of a custom .38 Super pistol lies in the ability to tailor the firearm to the shooter's exact specifications. From barrel length and slide modifications to trigger work and custom grips, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Experienced gunsmiths can optimize a .38 Super for various applications, enhancing its accuracy, reliability, and overall performance.
Customizations to Consider:
- Match-Grade Barrels: These increase accuracy by improving barrel consistency and reducing harmonics.
- Modified Slides: Lightweight slides reduce felt recoil, while others are designed for enhanced aesthetics.
- Trigger Work: A crisp and clean trigger pull significantly enhances accuracy and shooting comfort.
- Custom Grips: Ergonomically designed grips improve control and reduce fatigue.
Finding Your Perfect .38 Super Custom: A Buyer's Guide
Choosing a custom .38 Super is a personal journey that requires careful consideration. Start by identifying your intended use – self-defense, target shooting, or competition. This will help you prioritize certain customizations. Thorough research, including talking to experienced gunsmiths and other shooters, is essential.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Custom .38 Super:
- Reputation of the Gunsmith: Choose a highly skilled and reputable gunsmith with a proven track record.
- Quality of Components: Ensure high-quality parts are used in the build.
- Customization Options: Consider the level of customization you require and the gunsmith's capabilities.
- Budget: Custom builds can vary widely in price, so establish a realistic budget beforehand.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Reimagined
The .38 Super Colt, despite its age, remains a relevant and exciting cartridge. Its performance and potential for customization make it a compelling choice for both experienced shooters and enthusiasts new to the world of custom firearms. With careful consideration and research, you can find—or commission—a custom .38 Super pistol that perfectly meets your needs and preferences. The timeless elegance of the platform, combined with modern customization options, ensures the .38 Super's continued popularity for years to come.
