The 1911 A1 Government in .38 Super is a single-action pistol built on the classic 1911 frame with a chrome slide and frame finish. It chambers .38 Super — a caliber known for high velocity and a flat trajectory — in a 9-round capacity with a 5-inch barrel. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Series/Collection: 1911 A1 Government 
• Action: Single 
• Caliber/Gauge: .38 Super 
• Capacity: 9 rounds 
• Sight: Fixed Post Front, GI Fixed Rear 
• Slide Material: Chrome 
• Grip Type: Black Dymondwood with Silver Grain and Dual Texture 
• Frame Material: Steel 
• Frame Finish: Chrome 
• Barrel Length: 5 inches 
• Overall Length: 8.5 inches 
• Weight: 43 oz 
   

Detailed Features 

The single-action trigger gives a lighter, more consistent pull than DA/SA designs, which helps with accuracy and quick follow-up shots. The .38 Super caliber sits between 9mm and .45 ACP in energy output — it's fast with manageable recoil for a full-size platform. 
 
Fixed GI-style sights are basic but usable for range work and competition. Chrome finish on both the slide and steel frame resists corrosion and gives the pistol a distinctive look. The Black Dymondwood grips with dual texture provide a secure hold during firing — the material is dense and durable compared to standard synthetic grips. 
 
At 43 oz unloaded, this is a hefty pistol. That weight helps dampen felt recoil but makes it a poor everyday-carry choice. It's better suited to range use, competition, or as a display piece. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Competitive shooting where single-action accuracy and .38 Super ballistics are an advantage 
• Range training for shooters already comfortable with the 1911 platform 
• Collector interest given the combination of chrome finish and classic 1911 A1 configuration

Feedback on the Iver Johnson 1911 A1 .38 Super Chrome is mixed but generally positive for the right buyer.

The chrome finish draws consistent praise for appearance and corrosion resistance. Collectors and shooters who appreciate the 1911's history tend to respond well to this version — it looks the part and the classic profile is hard to argue with. Handling feels familiar to anyone who has shot a standard 1911, and the .38 Super caliber is considered accurate and enjoyable for target shooting.

On the critical side, quality control gets mentioned in some discussions. Not universal, but there are reports of inconsistency in fit and finish or reliability that suggest manufacturing isn't as tight as higher-end 1911 producers. Parts and accessories availability is also a noted concern — finding replacement components specific to the Iver Johnson version can be harder than for Colt or Springfield variants.

Weight is the other consistent topic. At 43 oz, it's heavy even by 1911 standards, which rules it out for most carry applications. Trigger feel draws split opinions — some find it solid for a production single-action, others think it needs work out of the box.

The price point is probably the deciding factor for most buyers. It comes in below comparable chrome 1911s from other makers, which makes the occasional quality variance more tolerable for value-focused shooters.