1917 Colt Government Model 1911 .38 Super Conversion — 6-inch Ported NM Match Barrel, Target Sights
This Colt Government Model was manufactured in 1917 and later converted to .38 Super with a 6-inch "38 SUPER NM" match barrel. The extended, ported barrel and target-adjustable rear sight with a tall front blade set it up for precise shooting, while the pistol retains 1911-style controls and steel construction. It features replacement checkered wood grip panels and an 8+1 single-stack configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Shows mild wear and use consistent with prior handling.
What’s Included
- 1x 8-round steel single-stack 1911-pattern magazine
- Extended 6-inch ported .38 SUPER NM barrel (installed)
- Target-adjustable rear sight (installed)
Built on a U.S.-made steel frame marked "GOV'T MODEL," this pistol carries the classic slide address "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO., HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A." The platform is full-size 1911 with single-action, short-recoil, locked-breech operation and an 8+1 capacity in .38 Super.
The conversion centers on a fitted 6-inch National Match-style barrel with the hood marked "38 SUPER NM." The barrel extends approximately one inch beyond the slide and is ported with three vents near the muzzle. A standard 1911 barrel bushing is retained along with a checkered recoil spring plug.
Sighting is enhanced by a target-adjustable rear installed via a slide cut and paired with a tall front blade. The slide retains rear-only vertical serrations and a non-lowered ejection port, preserving period-correct lines.
Controls include a smooth trigger, thumb safety, grip safety, and a wide-spur, checkered hammer. The mainspring housing is flat and vertically serrated with a smooth front strap. Replacement checkered wood grip panels complete the setup.