Conversion to a 38 Super

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04 May 2006, 00:02

Old Army

Conversion to a 38 Super

I have a Series 80 Colt 1911 in 45 ACP. I have developed a lust for a 38 Super. How difficult would it be to convert the Colt to a 38 Super?
Can I buy a Bar-Sto barrel and drop it in or do I need a gunsmith to adjust the feed and maybe, fit a new barrel bushing?
If I have to use a gunsmith what is your guesstimate on the final cost of the project?

04 May 2006, 06:08

Carluchin

I dont think it is that simple. If I'm not mistaken, you also need a new slide for the 38 super.

04 May 2006, 06:39

Peter

Easier to convert a 9mm Colt.
Peter.

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04 May 2006, 08:55

Allan DeGroot

Yep, he'll need a new slide to do it....

AllanD

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08 May 2006, 23:28

mstarling

You'd need a new slide, barrel, new extractor, new ejector, and new magazines.

I'd strongly recommend that you go with a ramped, fully supported barrel (like a Mowlin) and that means cutting the frame to fit. Is not a trivial endeavor.

If you're going to do one, start with an STI or SVI double column frame and build a new pistol. This would give you 18 to 25 rounds in the mag depending on the length of magazine you use.

Mike

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