Unveiling the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government 70 Series .38 Super: A Fusion of Classic Design and Modern Performance

For discerning firearms enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and collectors who appreciate both heritage and cutting-edge performance, the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government 70 Series chambered in the potent .38 Super caliber stands out as a remarkable choice. This full-size, steel-framed pistol, with its striking bright polish chrome finish and classic 1911 silhouette, is more than just a firearm; it's a testament to enduring design principles meticulously crafted for reliability, accuracy, and aesthetic appeal.

Are you searching for a 1911 that combines traditional Series 70 mechanics with the ballistic advantages of the .38 Super cartridge? Do you value a hand-fitted firearm built with robust materials? Or perhaps you're simply looking for a distinctive and high-performing pistol for range days, competition, or personal collection? The Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government model is engineered to meet these demands, offering an exceptional shooting experience right out of its protective case.

The Enduring Legacy of the Series 70 1911

The term "Series 70" is a hallmark of classic 1911 design, highly coveted by purists and competitive shooters alike. What does "Series 70" mean for a pistol like the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government? Simply put, it signifies the absence of a firing pin safety block, a feature introduced in later 1911 iterations (the Series 80).

Why is this significant? The primary benefit of a Series 70 design is its direct and crisp trigger pull. Without the additional components of a firing pin block, there's less mechanical interference, resulting in a cleaner, smoother, and often lighter trigger break. This characteristic is paramount for precision shooting, where a predictable trigger is crucial for accuracy. For shooters who prioritize feel and an authentic 1911 experience, the Series 70 design, as embodied by this Iver Johnson Arms model, delivers an unparalleled tactile response that contributes directly to improved shot placement.

Precision Engineering and Robust Construction

The foundation of any exceptional firearm lies in its construction, and the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government excels in this regard. This pistol features a robust steel frame and a forged steel slide. While some manufacturers opt for all-cast or all-forged components, Iver Johnson Arms utilizes a thoughtful combination:

• Forged Slide: Forging is a manufacturing process that uses localized compressive forces to shape metal, resulting in a grain structure that enhances strength and durability. A forged slide provides superior resistance to stress and wear, critical for the slide's rapid cycling under recoil.
• Cast Frame: Casting involves pouring molten metal into a mold. Modern casting techniques, especially for firearm frames, produce strong, reliable components that can withstand significant pressures.

Both the forged slide and cast frame undergo precise CNC machining, ensuring tight tolerances and consistent dimensions. However, the true artistry comes in the final stage: hand-fitting. Each slide is meticulously hand-fitted to its individual frame. This labor-intensive process, often reserved for custom or semi-custom firearms, eliminates play between components, enhancing accuracy and overall reliability. The result is a pistol with an exceptionally tight out-of-the-box fit, contributing to a longer service life and consistent performance.

The bright polish chrome finish on both the frame and slide not only provides a stunning visual appeal but also offers enhanced corrosion resistance and durability. This finish, coupled with the serrated steel slide and flat, serrated steel mainspring housing, ensures the pistol can withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining its elegant appearance.

Ergonomics and User Comfort: Designed for the Shooter

Comfort and control are paramount for an enjoyable and effective shooting experience. The Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government incorporates several design elements to optimize user ergonomics:

• Beavertail Grip Safety: This extended safety feature ensures a high and comfortable grip, distributing recoil more effectively across the hand and preventing "hammer bite" (where the hammer pinches the web of the hand). It promotes a consistent high grip, essential for recoil management and rapid follow-up shots.
• Finger Relief Cut: Positioned strategically near the trigger guard, this subtle yet impactful cut provides a more comfortable resting place for the trigger finger when not actively engaging the trigger. It minimizes fatigue during extended shooting sessions and promotes a natural, relaxed grip.
• Black Diamondwood Grips: These grips offer a classic aesthetic with a modern, dual-textured surface. The diamondwood provides a secure and comfortable hold, enhancing control without being overly aggressive. Their dark color provides a striking contrast against the bright chrome finish, adding to the pistol's overall visual appeal.
• Rear Vertical Serrations: Located on the slide, these serrations provide a positive grip for easy slide manipulation, whether chambering a round, clearing a malfunction, or performing a press check. Their vertical orientation is a traditional 1911 feature, complementing the pistol's classic lines.

The Potent .38 Super Cartridge: A Deep Dive

One of the most distinctive features of this Iver Johnson Arms 1911 is its chambering in .38 Super. Often overlooked in favor of more common calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP, the .38 Super offers a unique blend of attributes that make it highly desirable for specific applications.

History and Evolution:

Introduced by Colt in 1928, the .38 Super was designed to offer enhanced velocity and penetration over the .38 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge. It quickly gained popularity in law enforcement circles due to its ability to defeat early automobile body armor and common cover materials. Its semi-rimmed case design, which traditionally headspaces on the rim, was later improved with modern pistol barrels headspacing on the case mouth for enhanced accuracy.

Ballistic Advantages:

The .38 Super operates at higher pressures than the 9mm Luger, resulting in impressive velocities. Typically, a 130-grain bullet in .38 Super can achieve velocities well over 1,200 feet per second (fps), often exceeding 1,300 fps, generating significant energy.

• Flat Trajectory: The high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, making it easier to achieve accuracy at longer distances compared to slower, heavier calibers.
• Recoil Characteristics: While powerful, the .38 Super's recoil impulse is often described as "sharp" rather than "heavy." In a full-size, all-steel 1911 like the Iver Johnson Arms Government model, the pistol's substantial weight (43 oz) effectively absorbs and dissipates this recoil, making it surprisingly manageable and enabling faster follow-up shots.
• Competitive Shooting Power Factor: In action shooting sports like IPSC and USPSA, the .38 Super has long been a favorite, especially in the "Open" division. Its ability to easily make "Major" power factor (a minimum momentum threshold required for higher scoring) while allowing for higher magazine capacity (compared to .45 ACP) and flatter shooting has cemented its place among top competitors.

Common Uses and Applications:

• Competition: As mentioned, the .38 Super is a perennial favorite for practical shooting competitions due to its ballistics and manageability.
• Target Shooting: Its inherent accuracy and pleasant shooting characteristics make it an excellent choice for range enthusiasts looking for something beyond the ordinary.
• Self-Defense: With modern hollow-point ammunition, the .38 Super is a highly capable self-defense cartridge, offering excellent penetration and expansion.
• Collecting: For collectors, a well-made .38 Super 1911 represents a piece of firearms history and a unique addition to any collection.

Performance and Accuracy: What to Expect

The 5-inch barrel of the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government is the optimal length for maximizing the ballistic potential of the .38 Super cartridge, ensuring full powder burn and consistent velocities. This length also contributes to a longer sight radius, aiding in precise aiming.

Equipped with fixed sights—a fixed rear dovetail sight and a fixed post front sight—this pistol provides a robust and reliable sighting system. While fixed, they are designed for practical accuracy at common engagement distances. The tight hand-fitted slide-to-frame precise lockup further enhances accuracy by minimizing any potential movement of components, ensuring consistency shot after shot. Shooters can expect excellent groups on target, making this pistol a joy for punching paper or engaging steel.

Ready Out-of-the-Box: Included Accessories

The Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government .38 Super comes complete with essential accessories, adding significant value and convenience for the new owner:

• One Magazine: A standard capacity magazine, holding 9 rounds, provides immediate readiness for range use.
• Gun Lock: For safety and compliance with storage regulations.
• Manual: Comprehensive instructions for safe operation, maintenance, and care.
• Hard Black Plastic Lockable Gun Case: This durable case provides secure storage and transport for your new firearm, protecting it from damage and unauthorized access.

Who is the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government .38 Super For?

This pistol is ideally suited for:

• 1911 Aficionados: Those who appreciate the classic Series 70 design, robust steel construction, and hand-fitted precision.
• Competitive Shooters: Especially those involved in USPSA/IPSC who seek a .38 Super for its power factor and ballistic advantages in Open or Limited divisions.
• Collectors: Its unique caliber, striking chrome finish, and quality craftsmanship make it a desirable addition to any collection.
• Experienced Shooters: Individuals seeking a high-performance, full-size pistol for range shooting, target practice, or home defense.
• Those Seeking a Distinctive Firearm: The bright polish chrome finish sets this 1911 apart visually from more common blued or black models.

Caring for Your Iver Johnson Arms 1911

Maintaining the pristine condition and optimal function of your Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government is straightforward. The bright polish chrome finish, while durable, benefits from regular cleaning with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints and smudges. Standard firearm cleaning solvents and lubricants are suitable for the internal mechanisms and barrel. Given its all-steel construction, proper lubrication is essential to prevent wear and ensure smooth operation. Always refer to the included manual for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government .38 Super

Q: What is a Series 70 1911 and why is it preferred by some shooters?
A: A Series 70 1911, like this Iver Johnson Arms model, refers to the original 1911 design that does not incorporate a firing pin safety block. This absence results in a cleaner, crisper, and often lighter trigger pull, which is highly valued by competitive shooters and enthusiasts for its precision and feel.

Q: What are the advantages of the .38 Super caliber?
A: The .38 Super cartridge offers higher velocities and a flatter trajectory compared to many other handgun calibers. It's renowned for its performance in competitive shooting (easily making "Major" power factor) and is a capable round for self-defense with modern ammunition. It also offers a distinct shooting experience compared to 9mm or .45 ACP.

Q: Is the bright polish chrome finish durable? How do I care for it?
A: Yes, the bright polish chrome finish is durable and provides excellent corrosion resistance. To maintain its luster, regular cleaning with a soft, non-abrasive cloth to remove oils and smudges is recommended. Use standard gun cleaning solvents and lubricants for internal parts, avoiding harsh chemicals on the chrome finish itself.

Q: What is the benefit of a forged slide and cast frame?
A: This combination leverages the strengths of both manufacturing methods. A forged slide offers superior strength for the high-stress cycling of the pistol, while a cast frame, when properly executed and CNC machined like Iver Johnson's, provides a robust and dimensionally stable foundation. The hand-fitting ensures exceptional tolerances and a tight lockup.

Q: What is the capacity of the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government in .38 Super?
A: This model has a capacity of 9+1 rounds, meaning it holds 9 rounds in the magazine plus one in the chamber.

Q: Does this 1911 have a firing pin safety?
A: No, as a Series 70 pistol, it does not have a firing pin safety block. Its primary safeties are the manual thumb safety and the beavertail grip safety, requiring a proper grip to disengage.

Q: Is the 5-inch barrel length beneficial?
A: Yes, a 5-inch barrel is considered the standard "Government" model length for 1911s. It maximizes the ballistic potential of the .38 Super cartridge, contributes to a longer sight radius for improved accuracy, and provides excellent balance and recoil absorption for the full-size frame.

Q: What type of shooting is this pistol best suited for?
A: This Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government in .38 Super is exceptionally well-suited for competitive shooting (especially in action pistol sports), target shooting, and as a centerpiece for a firearms collection. Its full-size frame and powerful caliber also make it a viable option for home defense for those trained in its use.

Q: What accessories are included with the pistol?
A: The pistol comes with one magazine, a gun lock for safety, a user manual, and a hard black plastic lockable gun case for secure storage and transport.

Q: Where can I find more information or purchase this Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government .38 Super?
A: You can find detailed information and availability for the Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government 70 Series .38 Super, UPC 740120787565, at reputable firearms retailers like DEGuns.

The Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government 70 Series .38 Super represents a harmonious blend of classic American firearm design and modern manufacturing excellence. It's a pistol built for discerning individuals who demand reliability, accuracy, and a touch of timeless elegance.

Iver Johnson Arms 1911 A1 Government 70 Series .38 Super Specifications

Feature	Detail	UPC (for reference)
Brand	Iver Johnson Arms	740120787565
Model/Series	1911 A1 Government 70 Series
Caliber	.38 Super
Capacity	9+1 Rounds (Max 9)
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Barrel Length	5 inches (Range 5" to 5.99")
Overall Length	8.50 inches
Weight	43 ounces
Frame Material	Steel
Frame Finish	Bright Polish Chrome w/ Beavertail
Slide Material	Steel
Slide Finish	Bright Polish Chrome
Slide Design	Serrated Bright Polish Chrome
Grips	Black Dual Textured Diamondwood
Sights	Fixed (Rear Dovetail, Front Post)
Safety	Grip Safety (Series 70 Design)
Hand	Right Hand
Includes	One Magazine, Gun Lock, Manual, Lockable Gun Case
SKU	111725
MPN	191138CHRW