The Colt Combat Commander is a semi-automatic .38 Super pistol built on the 1911 platform with a 4.25-inch barrel and blued carbon steel construction. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Caliber: .38 Super 
• Action Type: Semi-Auto 
• Barrel Length: 4.25 inches 
• Overall Length: 7.750 inches 
• Item Height: 5.500 inches 
• Item Width: 1.250 inches 
• Weight: 2.063 lbs 
• Magazine Capacity: 9 rounds 
• Rear Sight Type: Adjustable 
• Front Sight Type: Bead 
• Barrel Finish: Blued 
• Material Composition: Carbon Steel with G10 stock material 
• Safety Style: Beavertail Cut 
• Muzzle Style: Non-threaded 
   

Features 

The 4.25-inch barrel splits the difference between a Government model's 5-inch barrel and a shorter Officer's model, keeping the Commander compact without sacrificing too much sight radius. The adjustable rear sight allows for dialing in windage and elevation, which matters for .38 Super's flatter trajectory. G10 grips provide traction without adding bulk. 
 
A beavertail grip safety is fitted as standard, protecting against slide bite with high-grip shooting. 
 

Use Cases 

The .38 Super in a Commander-length 1911 is a traditional competition caliber, especially in USPSA Open and Limited divisions. The 9-round capacity gives an edge over standard .45 ACP Government magazines. The blued carbon steel and classic profile also appeal to collectors tracking the Colt Combat Commander lineage.

The Colt Combat Commander .38 Super in blued finish generates positive and nostalgic feedback across firearm discussions.

The Colt name and 1911 platform carry historical weight that matters to owners. Handling and craftsmanship comments reflect that -- the blued finish is specifically described as timeless-looking, and buyers who want a traditional aesthetic over a modern Cerakote or stainless finish tend to seek this out.

Shooting feel is well-regarded. The 4.25-inch barrel balances compactness and accuracy, recoil with .38 Super is described as manageable, and the grip dimensions work for most hands without modification.

Amunition availability is the most practical concern. .38 Super is less common than 9mm or .45 ACP, which means more effort to source and typically higher per-round cost. Buyers are advised to confirm local availability before committing.

Compared to more modern pistol designs, some users note this configuration lacks optics mounting, suppressor-height sights, or a rail -- which matters less to the traditional 1911 buyer but is worth noting for shooters used to current-generation duty guns.