Interested in buying a new Colt 1911 .45 ACP...

[kopazzz]

Blue finish, want classic model, standard features. Is Model 01970A1CS, which is a series 70 gun, the right choice? What is the difference between series 70 and 80?

Thanks to all in advance.

[DeltaCommander]

A general answer - If you drop a 70 series, it might go off. If you drop an 80, it won't. 80s have a firing pin block where parts block the firing pin until the trigger is pulled. 80s also have a half-cock notch that does fall when you pull the trigger, but nothing to make it fire the gun.

70 triggers are known to be crisper although an 80 can be worked on to get it pretty close by a good smith.

I don't know that I would care which I have if I like the gun.

So, when are you getting it?

[kopazzz]

A general answer - If you drop a 70 series, it might go off. If you drop an 80, it won't. 80s have a firing pin block where parts block the firing pin until the trigger is pulled. 80s also have a half-cock notch that does fall when you pull the trigger, but nothing to make it fire the gun.

70 triggers are known to be crisper although an 80 can be worked on to get it pretty close by a good smith.

I don't know that I would care which I have if I like the gun.

So, when are you getting it?

Not sure, perhaps this spring. I already have a 1911 series 80 in 38 super with a high polished stainless finish. Love the gun, but it bothers me that it isn't 45 ACP. The frame is basically the same, the feel is the same, but would also like to have a true 1911 in 45 ACP. Blue finish, brand new from the factory, would be nice. I want as close to the original design as possible (but new), and from what I've read, the series 70 is it. I can check with Colt, but would love to hear the forum's feedback as well...

[grandpawj]

Welcome to the forum.

[Kid Sopris]

Each Colt handgun seems to be in it's own world of desirability, the .45 acp 1911 is not different. I too own a colt Custom Government BSS in 38 Super "100 years of service" model and I have the Model 01918, (Black Army). I truly love both. The 01918 is more of a tribute to my Grandfather, USMC, WWI.

[kopazzz]

Kid Sopris,
Beautiful guns, thanks for your response.

- Kopazzz

[kenhwind]

I too would be happy with either the Series 70 or the 1991. I think that both pistols should be an option depending on which one you are able to get.

[Ratzo]

If you want it as close to original design then buy a WWI reissue. They are as close to the original as you will get without buying an original. I saw three at a gun show last year for $1100 each, NIB.

[kopazzz]

Ratzo,
Thank you!

[what would you say]

If you want it as close to original design then buy a WWI reissue. They are as close to the original as you will get without buying an original. I saw three at a gun show last year for $1100 each, NIB.

I know of a gunshop here in Eastern NC that has a WWI reissue. He had two. I bought both, but brought one back that just wasnt as NIB to me as they said. It's back on the shelf. If it's gonna be a shooter and holstered, I probably would have kept it. They are not advertising the fact that its a WWI issue and all that it comes with, (some special boxes, etc) so no telling how long it might sit, as its lost in there with the rest of the cheaper repros (sniff). Just sayin'... if somebody's gotta have one and can't find it. Was a few on GB about Christmas time. may be getting scarce.