.38 super into 9mm?

[bnr420]

i have a 1911 .38 super, can i convert it into a 9mm by just swapping out the barrel and mag? any help would be appreciated.

[SilentPea]

Assuming:
1) the 9mm barrel is the same ramp/not-ramped configuration as your 38-super barrel
2) you fit the 9mm barrel appropriately (or at least check the fitment)
3) your recoil spring matches the 9mm recommended spring weights

then yes, it should just work.

[bnr420]

thanks for the help

[Twystd1]

You MAY need extractor and ejector tuning.
You may have to use 9mm specific magazines.
If you get a ramped barrel. You may have to cut your frame.

I have done it with ramped and non ramped barrels. The non ramped barrel was VERY problematic. Always had feed problems. With the ramped barrel. NO problems after tweaking mags, ejector and extractor.

The case head on the 9mm VS the 38 super is so close that this allows you to use your slide for either cartridge.

Note, This was 20 years ago. I am sure I have forgotten a couple of other pertinent tweaks.
Wait for Randall, KC or some of the other gunsmiths to show up on this thread.. They will have better info.

-T

[mag88]

Did it to my RIA 38 Super. Ordered the 9mm barrel from them. It went in with no fitting required. Didn't change anything else out and use 38 Super mags. In the first 100 rounds had 3 fte but it has been flawless ever since. Definitely is fun switching back and forth between calibers at the range. I use the 9mm to warm up and finish on the Super.