Actually the .38Super is much closer to the 9mm than any others mentioned. The Super fires in factory loads a 115gr bullet to around 1,350fps and a 124 to around 1,250fps. The 130gr RN-FMJ's run to high 1,100's to 1,200fps.
Recoil is about the same, BUT different................
The total impulse is about the same, but the force duration is shorter, so, it will appear a bit snappier. (lighter bullet, higher velocity, much higher chamber pressure hence "port-pressure" at muzzle).
The important thing to remember about the Super is, that like the .45, it's been around a long time. Guns built prior to the mid 80's, will most likely have a .356" bore, and will be headspaced on the rim. Accuracy suffers greatly with this set-up and contributed to the long term languishing of this cartridge until it was resurrected by the action-shooters. The high port-pressure at the muzzle was found to be much more efficient and the higher magazine capacity gave it a significant advantage over the .45acp.
The Springfield Armory .38Super I have, has a .355" barrel (nominal 9mm), and is a ramped barrel (factory!), and headspaces on the case mouth. Accuracy is very good.
Best part of this gun is that it will handle loads as light as 9mm cast bullets at 1,000fps, and- will shoot some real "fire-ball" loads with BlueDot, or AA#7 with 124gr JHP's to 1,350fps.
Brass is a sticky issue with the .38super. I have some Winchester Nickle plated cases that are quite thin, and with a standard expander, won't hold the bullet tight enough to prevent push-back. All other brands (Remington, Fiochi, Starline, ect) are fine though. My favorite all around bullets are a 120gr truncated conical loaded to around 1,100fps, a the Remington 115gr JHP loaded from 1,100fps, and UPWARD !
I sure you'll like the .38Super. Most that get one do.
Besides the usual 1911's, I've a friend that has an EAA "Witness" that holds 15 -or so, rounds and is respectably accurate (2.5"@25yds). These can be had for somewhat less than a good 1911.
