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Originally, the Colt Mustang was built a miniature 1911 chambered in .380 and was a hit with shooters interested in a pocket sized handgun with the same single action features and operation at the venerable Colt 1911 series. Although the original Mustang series was fairly popular, Colt elected to discontinue this model in 1996.
One popular theory for the discontinuation was the fact that the Mustang was significantly heavier (having a steel frame) and more expensive than the smaller polymer frame pistols entering the market. In addition, the Mustang was a more costly option compared to many of the newer, smaller polymer based handguns. Over the next 10 years the Mustang was basically “rediscovered” and encountered a significant rebound in popularity. This increase in interest coupled with the limited availability drove the street price up to 3 to 4 times the original cost.
As Colt became aware of the resurgence, plans were made to re-introduce an updated version of the Mustang in June of 2013. Basically the Mustang was updated to this century as the new model, called the Mustang XSP (with XSP meaning “XTra Special Polymer”), utilizes a polymer frame, a blackened stainless steel slide, and a mini-picatinny rail. The controls on the new XSP models are nearly identical to the versions on the original Mustang series. Here are a few other areas where the XSP has been updated:
Dovetail sights – The original Mustang series came with a fixed ramp front sight but the new XSP model features dovetail sights. What’s so great about that you ask? Because dovetail sights can be removed and potentially replaced with an aftermarket sight.
Picatinny rail – Although this has already been mentioned, it bears further discussion. The integration of a picatinny rail (or light rail) means that a laser or light can potentially be added to the XSP. I’d expect Crimson Trace to jump on the XSP bandwagon at some point.
Updated trigger – The trigger on the XSP comes from the factory at a fairly crisp 5 lbs and has a much shorter reset compared to the original Mustang series. A shorter reset equates to a faster rate of fire, which is usually a good thing. The trigger guard has been altered as well to a more squared off look versus the round trigger found on the original series.
Here are some common gun holster questions that we’ve encountered on the Mustang XSP:
#1 – Will a holster for the original Mustang fit the new XSP version?
No probably not, and there are two reasons for that:
#2 – Will the XSP version fit a holster made for the new or older Colt Pocketlite .380 because the dimensions are similar?
No it won’t because the Pocketlite model has the same dimensions and frame as the original Mustang series.
#3 – Since the Mustang is single action and is designed to be carried in the cocked & locked position, are there any holster models that feature a thumb break or retention strap made specifically for the cocked & locked carry model on the Mustang?
Yes, there are some holster models below that have the option of an added thumb break designed for the cocked & locked carry mode.
#4 – Is the Mustang a good choice for pocket carry?
Based on opinions, we don’t feel that it’s a good choice for pocket carry. The added edges of a cocked & locked hammer doesn’t typically work as a pocket carry option as it adds height and offers more area to for potential snagging during the draw. In addition, the XSP is on the big side of pistols when it comes to pocket carry. While these opinions won’t rule the XSP out as a pocket carry option, there are certainly better pocket carry weapons on the market.
Any of the holster models shown below are available in a left or right version to fit the Colt Mustang XSP.