Historical Foundations
The Combat Commander’s Genesis
The sharp snap of the slide, the resounding report of the shot, and the undeniable presence in hand – these are hallmarks of the Colt legacy. For over a century, the name “Colt” has been synonymous with quality, innovation, and a distinct American spirit. The stories surrounding these firearms are as numerous as the rounds they’ve fired, weaving themselves into the fabric of history, law enforcement, and the very soul of gun enthusiasts. And amongst the myriad of Colt models, one stands out as a testament to practicality and potent firepower: the Colt 38 Super Combat Commander. This piece isn’t just a firearm; it’s a statement, a legacy of refinement, and a piece of American craftsmanship that continues to captivate shooters worldwide.
This article delves into the rich history, features, and enduring appeal of the Colt 38 Super Combat Commander, exploring its significance within the realm of compact, powerful handguns. We’ll dissect its design, examine its performance, and explore its continuing popularity, solidifying its place as a top contender for concealed carry, defensive purposes, and the avid collection of firearm enthusiasts.
The Making of the Combat Commander
The genesis of the Combat Commander stemmed from a need for a lighter, more concealable version of the iconic 1911. The full-sized 1911, while renowned for its stopping power and reliability, was substantial. Recognizing the demand for a more compact offering, Colt embarked on a mission to reduce size and weight without sacrificing the proven platform’s advantages.
The introduction of the aluminum alloy frame, a major innovation at the time, was a key element in achieving this goal. This change significantly reduced the pistol’s overall weight, making it considerably easier to carry and maneuver. The original Combat Commander debuted with this lighter frame, and it quickly gained popularity among those seeking a more manageable carry gun.
Series 70 Refinements
The Series 70 designation marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Colt 1911 platform. It represented a refinement, an effort to enhance the design and performance. The Series 70 pistols, including the Combat Commander, incorporated specific improvements. These subtle, but significant, upgrades were instrumental in achieving a higher level of reliability and performance. Notably, the introduction of a collet barrel bushing ensured greater accuracy by providing a tighter lockup. This enhancement, in conjunction with meticulous craftsmanship, elevated the pistol’s overall shooting experience.
The 38 Super’s Origins
The 38 Super cartridge, the powerplant behind this exceptional handgun, is a testament to the evolution of cartridge technology. Emerging in the early 1920s, this round distinguished itself immediately by its high-velocity performance, boasting impressive stopping power in its time. It offered significant advantages over other common handgun cartridges, and the 38 Super soon found its place in the hands of law enforcement. Its ability to penetrate barriers and neutralize threats rapidly cemented its reputation as a formidable round.
Defining Characteristics
The Frame and Slide
Examining the physical attributes of the Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 provides insight into its design and function. The frame, a critical element of the pistol, came in two primary materials: steel and aluminum alloy. The steel-framed models offer enhanced durability and heft, while the aluminum versions provide a significant reduction in weight for easier everyday carry. Both frames are designed to withstand the rigors of repeated firing and provide a solid foundation for the slide assembly. The construction and overall durability were designed to provide years of reliable service.
The slide is crafted from forged steel, ensuring strength and resistance to wear. It bears the iconic Colt markings, representing a commitment to the brand and the tradition of excellence. The slide travels along the frame with precise tolerances, which ensures consistent functionality and enhances overall accuracy.
Barrel and Sights Details
The barrel length, approximately four-and-a-quarter inches, strikes a balance between firepower and concealment. It’s long enough to fully harness the potent 38 Super cartridge’s energy while still fitting comfortably in a holster designed for concealed carry. The rifling inside the barrel guides the bullet, imparting a spin that increases stability and accuracy.
Sights are another aspect of the gun that deserve consideration. The classic Combat Commander featured simple, fixed sights. These sights, while functional, provided a straightforward aiming solution. The design, however, meant that the rear sight could be changed. Modern variants of the Colt Combat Commander and subsequent models featured upgraded options, including adjustable sights, to accommodate different shooting preferences and distances.
Grip and Trigger
The ergonomics of the pistol play a vital role in its overall user experience. The grip, designed to fit the contours of the hand, offers a comfortable and secure hold. The size, while compact, provides enough surface area for a confident grip, even under stress. The standard grips were frequently made of wood, polished and checkered for a secure purchase. There are other variants, for example, rubber grips which enhance the grip, especially for those who prefer a firmer grip.
The trigger action, a fundamental component of any firearm, is the interface between the shooter and the weapon. The trigger mechanism is known for its crisp break and relatively short reset. The result is that shooters find it easy to achieve accurate and rapid follow-up shots.
Series 70 Upgrades
The series 70 specifically, also features some significant upgrades from prior models. The barrel bushing contributes to overall accuracy. It ensures the barrel is properly centered in the slide. This helps reduce play and provides a better lockup. The design of the Series 70 was a direct refinement of the original.
Performance Under Fire
Accuracy and Reliability
The Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 delivers exceptional accuracy. The collet barrel bushing, combined with the inherent accuracy of the 1911 design, allows for tight groupings at various distances. The cartridge’s high velocity further contributes to this, providing a flat trajectory and reducing bullet drop.
Reliability is a hallmark of the 1911 platform, and the Combat Commander Series 70 is no exception. With regular maintenance and proper care, this pistol consistently functions. It’s essential to use quality ammunition and clean the firearm after each use. While it doesn’t have the greatest capacity, its power is enough to be a top contender.
Recoil and Concealed Carry
The recoil of the 38 Super cartridge in a Commander-sized frame is manageable, yet offers substantial energy. The relatively light weight, combined with the powerful cartridge, produces a noticeable, but controllable, recoil impulse. The ergonomic design of the grip helps mitigate this recoil, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
The Combat Commander is an excellent choice for concealed carry. Its compact size, coupled with its powerful chambering, make it a versatile choice. The slender profile fits well under clothing, providing a good balance of concealment and effectiveness.
Appreciating Collectible Value
Market Trends and Rarities
The Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 has maintained significant value in the collector’s market. The overall values are dependent upon several different factors including condition, rarity, originality, and historical significance.
The Series 70 Combat Commander has become a sought-after item. These pistols are particularly desirable. The higher-end, more pristine examples of the model command premium prices.
Authenticity Considerations
Authenticity is key in the world of collectible firearms. Collectors and potential buyers must know how to spot original, matching guns. Checking serial numbers is crucial to verify the date of manufacture. The presence of all factory-original parts significantly impacts the pistol’s collectibility.
Customization and Enhancement
Common Upgrades
Shooters have a lot of choices when it comes to customizing and upgrading the Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70. Improved sights enhance target acquisition.
Aftermarket grips provide enhanced ergonomics. Holsters offer versatility and comfort, and the magazine’s extended capacity, which allows for quick changes, all enhance the performance and the handling of this iconic pistol.
Weighing the Merits
Advantages
The advantages are significant. The Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 combines the stopping power of the 38 Super cartridge with the concealability of a Commander-sized 1911. This unique pairing makes it a formidable defensive weapon. The iconic design provides a comfortable grip and intuitive handling. This makes it great for shooters of all levels.
Disadvantages
The primary consideration is the substantial recoil, which requires some training to manage. The pistol’s limited capacity might be a drawback for some.
Concluding Thoughts
The Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 isn’t just a firearm; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the 1911 platform. It successfully blends historical elegance with practical power. The marriage of the cartridge and the compact format offers a distinct advantage for defensive purposes and concealed carry.
The Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 is for those who appreciate quality, power, and reliability. It’s for those who value a piece of history while demanding exceptional performance.
The legacy of the Colt 38 Super Combat Commander Series 70 endures, representing a pinnacle of design and performance. It’s a timeless classic that continues to captivate shooters, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the rich tapestry of firearm history.
