[Mike Faires]

I have a Colt Goverment Model 38 Super in reading the books I have determined that the way to identify the differance is the location of the Rampant Colt on the slide in combination heavy versus thin barrel. It would certainly be simpler to identify by serial number range but what do I know. Can anyone provide the od of each style barrel at the muzzle if that is were the differnece is determined. If that is not where the measurement is taken please provide same. For reference my serial number is 645xx, made in 1948 I think.

[Ron James]

Don't know about the barrel style but Wilson's book shows 1949 is the year the serial number was issued.

[Jim Watson]

The thin barrel is about .50" at the muzzle, the "fat" barrel is about .579", same as a .45 ACP's.

[Mike Faires]

Thanks for your replies;

Ron I will have to get a copy of Wilsons book (What Title), I'm a Smith guy usually but this one just spoke to me. By the way Proofhouse website lists the date as 1948.

Jim thnaks for the barrel od mine measures .572, Prancing pony on left of slide should make it a 2nd model.

[BADSBSNF81]

Proofhouse will get you in the ballpark. Call Colt and the will tell you when it was made. Colt: An American Legend or the The Book of Colt Firearms are both by Wilson.