Hot-loaded 1911 cartridge beloved in IPSC/USPSA competition. Offers 9mm bullet diameter with higher velocity in the 1911 platform.
Type: Pistol
Introduced: 1929, United States
Parent case: .38 ACP
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.356" (9.04 mm)
Case length: 0.9" (22.86 mm)
Overall length: 1.28" (32.51 mm)
Max pressure: 36,500 PSI
Rim type: Semi-Rimmed
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 1200–1400 fps
Muzzle energy: 385–500 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 115, 124, 130 gr
Primary use: Competition, Self-Defense
Production status: Active
Also known as: .38 Super Auto · .38 Super +P · .38 Super Auto +P
History: Introduced by Colt in 1929 as an upgrade to the .38 ACP. Achieved notoriety when gangsters favored it for penetrating car bodies. Now a staple of competitive shooting, particularly in Mexico where citizens cannot own military calibers.
Notable firearms: Colt 1911 Government, Para-Ordnance, STI/Staccato
Military use: {"country":"Mexico","years":"military and police"}
Similar cartridges: 9mm Luger, .357 SIG