Colt has a reputation for crafting reliable, high-quality firearms, and the Colt Mustang upholds that tradition in a sleek, compact package designed for concealed carry. Blending classic 1911-style controls with a modern .380 ACP platform, the Mustang delivers a lightweight, easy-to-handle pistol perfect for everyday carry and personal defense.
With a 2.75-inch barrel, 6-round capacity, and stainless-steel frame, the Colt Mustang balances portability with durability. Its single-action trigger and intuitive controls make it a great option for shooters who appreciate a refined, responsive handgun that doesn’t sacrifice performance for size.
In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into the Colt Mustang’s specifications, performance, and price, breaking down what makes this micro 1911 a standout choice. Whether you're looking for a compact defensive pistol or a reliable backup gun, read on to see if the Colt Mustang is the right fit for you.
Colt Mustang: Background & First Impressions
The Colt Mustang is a refined entry in Colt’s lineup, designed to deliver the familiar feel of a 1911 in a compact, pocket-sized .380 ACP platform. Tailored for concealed carry and personal defense, the Mustang retains Colt’s signature precision craftsmanship, smooth trigger action, and durable stainless-steel construction while offering a lightweight and easily concealable pistol.
Upon first handling, the Colt Mustang impresses with its solid yet compact build, intuitive 1911-style controls, and ergonomic grip, making it comfortable to hold and operate. The 2.75-inch barrel provides a balance between concealability and accuracy, while the single-action trigger ensures a crisp, responsive pull for precise shooting. The low-profile fixed sights and well-placed controls make for smooth, intuitive handling. Right out of the box, the Colt Mustang feels like a well-engineered micro Colt pistol, ready to serve as a reliable everyday carry option for both experienced shooters and newcomers alike.
COLT 380 MUSTANG SPECIFICATIONS
Here are some quick specs to give you a better idea of what the Colt Mustang brings to the table:
- Model Name: Colt Mustang
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Action: Single-action
- Weight (Unloaded): 18.5 oz.
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Overall Width: 1.06 inches
- Overall Length: 5.5 inches
- Overall Height: 3.9 inches
- Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
- Frame Material: Stainless steel
- Safety: Manual thumb safety
- Sights: Fixed low-profile sights
- MSRP: $508
COLT MUSTANG PROS AND CONS
PROS
- Compact Size: The Colt Mustang's small size makes it easy to carry concealed or as a backup weapon.
- Familiar Controls: With its 1911-style controls, the Mustang offers a familiar shooting experience for enthusiasts.
- Reliable Performance: Despite its size, the Mustang delivers consistent performance and reliability.
- Accurate: Shooters appreciate the accuracy of the Mustang, allowing for precise shooting even at shorter distances.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The pistol's grip and ergonomics make it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.
CONS
- Small Sights: Some users may find the Mustang's sights to be too small, impacting target acquisition.
- Potential Grip Issues: Shooters with larger hands may experience difficulty getting a secure grip on the pistol.
- Reliability Quirks: While generally reliable, some users have reported occasional feeding issues with certain ammunition types.
- Limited Capacity: With a capacity of 6 rounds, the Mustang may not offer as much firepower as larger pistols.
- Break-In Period: Some users have noted that the Mustang requires a break-in period to function optimally, which may be a drawback for those looking for immediate reliability.
Now that we've got the pros and cons laid out, let's see what the experts have to say about the Colt Mustang.
COLT MUSTANG.380 REVIEWS - PERSONAL ASSESSMENT
Now, let's talk about my personal experience with the Colt Mustang 380. I've had the pleasure of putting this little gem through its paces, and I have to say, I'm impressed. It's become my go-to option for everyday carry, thanks to its reliability, accuracy, and comfortable ergonomics.
COLT MUSTANG 380 - RELIABILITY
In my time with the Colt 380 Mustang, I've encountered very few reliability issues. It's proven to be a dependable companion, whether I'm at the range or out and about. Of course, it's always important to put any firearm through its paces and ensure it performs reliably under various conditions.
COLT 380 MUSTANG - ACCURACY
I've found the Colt Mustang 380 to be surprisingly accurate for its size. It's easy to keep on target, even during rapid-fire drills. The sights are small, but with a bit of practice, I've been able to achieve consistent groupings at various distances.
COLT MUSTANG Pocketlite - ERGONOMICS
One of the things I love most about the Colt 380 Mustang is how it feels in my hand. It's comfortable to grip and easy to control, even during extended shooting sessions. The controls are well-placed and intuitive, making it a pleasure to operate.
COLT 380 MUSTANG Pocketlite - FAQ
No, the Colt Mustang is not a traditional 1911 pistol, but it does share many design elements and controls with the iconic 1911 platform. It's often referred to as a "mini" or "pocket" 1911 due to its compact size and similar features.
The Colt Mustang chambered in .380 ACP typically holds 6 rounds in the magazine, with an additional round in the chamber, bringing the total capacity to 6+1 rounds.
The trigger pull weight of a Colt Mustang can vary slightly depending on factors such as manufacturing tolerances and individual preferences. However, on average, the trigger pull weight of a Colt Mustang is around 6-7 pounds.
The price of a Colt Mustang chambered in .380 ACP can vary depending on factors such as the condition, model (original or newer production), and any additional features or accessories included. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 to $800 for a new Colt Mustang, while used models may range from $400 to $600, depending on their condition and rarity. It's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different retailers or sellers to find the best deal.
COLT 380 MUSTANG REVIEWS - CONCLUSION
The Colt Mustang is a worthy contender in the world of compact pistols. It offers a perfect blend of reliability, accuracy, and comfort, making it an ideal option for everyday carry and personal defense. While it may have its quirks, as all firearms do, its positives far outweigh any negatives. And do not forget that a quality Colt Mustang 380 holster ensures that your pistol remains safely by your side, ready for action. So if you're in the market for a reliable and compact pistol, be sure to give the Colt Mustang a closer look. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
