The Legacy of the 1911
The Colt 1911. The name alone conjures images of history, combat, and enduring reliability. From its inception over a century ago, this handgun has cemented its place as a true icon, a testament to its revolutionary design and the brilliant mind of John Browning. Today, the legacy of the 1911 lives on, and collectors and firearm enthusiasts often debate the nuances of different variations. Two of the most discussed models are the Colt 70 Series and the Colt 80 Series. But what truly separates these two iterations of the classic 1911? This article will delve deep into the core differences, the historical context, and the performance characteristics to help you navigate the landscape of these legendary firearms.
The story of the 1911 begins in the early 20th century. Seeking a replacement for the inadequate .38 Long Colt revolvers, the United States Army began testing various semi-automatic pistols. John Browning, already renowned for his firearm designs, submitted his creation chambered in a powerful new cartridge, the .45 ACP. After rigorous trials and modifications, the US Army adopted the Colt 1911 in 1911. This adoption marked a significant leap forward in handgun technology, offering a more potent cartridge, faster reload times, and semi-automatic functionality. Its robust construction, intuitive controls, and inherent accuracy quickly made it a favorite among soldiers.
The 1911 quickly became a symbol of American military might, seeing action in both World Wars, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and various other conflicts. Its simple yet effective design, coupled with its stopping power, ensured its longevity and popularity. Even after the US military transitioned to the Beretta M9 in the late 1980s, the 1911’s influence on the firearms world remained undeniable.
The Reintroduction of a Classic
Colt had continued producing the 1911 for civilian and law enforcement markets throughout its history. In 1970, Colt decided to revitalize the classic design and introduced the Colt 70 Series. This reintroduction was a nod to the original design, aiming to capture the essence of the 1911 that had served countless soldiers and civilians faithfully for decades. The 70 Series was a celebration of the original’s minimalist beauty and functional efficiency.
This design was about the core elements: a well-crafted steel frame and slide, a reliable single-action trigger, and the unmistakable profile of the classic 1911. The 70 Series generally featured a blued finish, though other finishes were available. It was a pistol designed for those who valued the traditional feel, the smooth operation, and the inherent reliability that made the 1911 so legendary. For many, the 70 Series represented the purest form of the 1911 experience, free from unnecessary complexities.
The Evolution Continues
The 1980s witnessed a growing emphasis on firearm safety and liability. In response to this trend, Colt introduced the 80 Series, which incorporated a firing pin safety. This safety mechanism was designed to prevent the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger was fully depressed. This added safety feature was intended to address potential concerns about accidental discharges, especially for those accustomed to carrying firearms in situations where safety was paramount.
While the 80 Series retained the core features of the 1911, the inclusion of the firing pin safety introduced some modifications to the internal mechanics. The slide design, frame, and trigger system were slightly altered to accommodate the new safety components. These changes, while intended to increase safety, ultimately became a key point of debate among 1911 enthusiasts.
Design and Feature Differences
One of the most significant differentiators between the Colt 70 Series and the Colt 80 Series lies in the trigger system. The Colt 70 Series features a straightforward design. The trigger directly interacts with the sear and hammer. This direct connection contributes to a crisp trigger pull and predictable feel, making it a favorite among those who prioritize precision and accuracy.
The 80 Series utilizes a firing pin safety. This safety mechanism, essentially a small plunger and spring located in the slide, blocks the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled. The trigger must depress a lever that lifts the plunger and allows the firing pin to strike the primer when the hammer falls.
The absence of the firing pin safety in the 70 Series is seen by some as a benefit, contributing to a cleaner, more responsive trigger pull. Conversely, the firing pin safety in the 80 Series adds an extra layer of security, potentially mitigating the risk of accidental discharges. The pros and cons are subjective and often depend on the shooter’s preferences.
The internal components differ noticeably. The 70 Series largely maintains the original 1911 design. Disassembly and reassembly are typically straightforward, making maintenance a relatively simple process. The simpler mechanism often translates to a higher degree of perceived reliability, as there are fewer parts that can potentially fail.
The 80 Series adds a firing pin safety which includes parts, like the plunger, spring, and lever, that affect the frame and slide design. While these additions enhance safety, they also introduce some complexity to the internal workings of the gun. Disassembly and reassembly are still manageable for experienced 1911 users, but the presence of the safety system requires more attention to detail.
The external aesthetics of both series are similar, as both generally share the iconic profile of the 1911. There are, however, variations in finishes, grips, and sights. The 70 Series often featured a blued finish, emphasizing the traditional look of the 1911. While the 80 Series also offered blued models, other finishes like stainless steel and various coatings became more common, reflecting the changing tastes and technologies of the time. The grips could range from wood to various synthetic materials depending on the specific model. The sights also varied, with both models typically featuring fixed sights as standard, with some models later offering adjustable sights.
Performance on the Range
The trigger pull is where the most noticeable performance difference appears. The 70 Series, with its simpler trigger mechanism, often boasts a smoother and crisper trigger pull than the 80 Series. This is a significant advantage for accuracy, as a lighter, cleaner trigger allows for more precise shot placement. The 80 Series, due to the added components of the firing pin safety, tends to have a slightly heavier and less crisp trigger pull. This difference can be noticeable, especially for experienced shooters who are accustomed to the feel of a well-tuned 1911 trigger.
Reliability is a key aspect of any firearm. Both the 70 and 80 Series, when well-maintained, are known for their reliability. However, the 70 Series, with its less complex mechanism, might have an edge in certain scenarios. Fewer parts can, in theory, mean fewer potential points of failure. The 80 Series, while generally reliable, might be slightly more susceptible to malfunctions if the firing pin safety components are not properly maintained or if the pistol is subjected to extreme conditions or lack of maintenance.
Accuracy, closely linked to trigger pull, can favor the 70 Series. The crisper trigger pull often found in the 70 Series can contribute to improved accuracy, allowing the shooter to maintain a steadier hold and reduce the likelihood of disturbing the sight picture during the trigger pull. While the 80 Series is certainly capable of excellent accuracy, the slightly heavier trigger pull can sometimes hinder the shooter’s ability to achieve the same level of precision.
Recoil management, another significant factor in shooting performance, remains largely consistent between the two series. The .45 ACP cartridge produces a noticeable recoil, regardless of the specific model. The weight and design of the 1911 platform, however, do a good job of mitigating recoil. The shooter’s grip technique is arguably more important than any difference between the two series in managing recoil.
Weighing the Benefits
The 70 Series
The 70 Series shines with its simplicity. The lack of a firing pin safety creates a cleaner, more direct trigger pull. This direct trigger pull provides a distinct feel, contributing to a perceived increase in reliability. The 70 Series is often favored by those who appreciate classic designs and are seeking an uncomplicated shooting experience.
The downsides? The absence of the firing pin safety might concern some, particularly those accustomed to modern firearms. The 70 Series might also have a slightly higher price tag than some 80 Series models, reflecting its collectibility and the demand for classic 1911s.
The 80 Series
The 80 Series offers an added layer of safety. The firing pin safety system is designed to prevent accidental discharges. It can be advantageous for those who prioritize safety and want an added degree of peace of mind. The 80 Series models are generally more readily available, making them easier to purchase and potentially more affordable than some 70 Series models.
The cons of the 80 Series typically revolve around the trigger feel. The firing pin safety mechanism can lead to a heavier, less crisp trigger pull. The added components in the firing pin safety can also, theoretically, increase the complexity and potential for malfunctions if not properly maintained.
The Collector’s Eye
The collectibility of a Colt 1911, whether it is a 70 Series or an 80 Series, is determined by factors such as its condition, originality, and the rarity of the model. Originality is key for collectors. Unaltered examples, especially those with original factory parts and finishes, hold significant value.
The 70 Series often commands a higher price than the 80 Series, particularly if it’s in excellent condition and has all its original components. Certain variations of the 70 Series, such as those with special finishes or limited production runs, are particularly sought after by collectors. The 80 Series can also be valuable, especially if it is a less common variation or has significant historical relevance.
Practical Application
When it comes to concealed carry, both the 70 and 80 Series can be carried effectively, although the additional safety of the 80 Series offers a degree of comfort for some carriers. The larger size and weight of the 1911 platform, relative to some modern handguns, make it less ideal for concealed carry for some individuals.
In the world of target shooting, the 70 Series often gains preference. The crisper trigger pull of the 70 Series can contribute to greater accuracy. While the 80 Series can certainly be accurate, the 70 Series trigger gives many target shooters an edge.
For self-defense, both series offer a potent package. The .45 ACP cartridge has proven its effectiveness in various situations. While the 80 Series offers the additional safety of the firing pin safety, both models are reliable enough for self-defense purposes when properly maintained and handled responsibly.
In Conclusion
The choice between the Colt 70 Series and the Colt 80 Series is a matter of personal preference and your specific priorities. The 70 Series represents the purity of the original 1911 design, offering a crisp trigger pull and a classic feel. The 80 Series provides the additional safety of a firing pin safety, catering to shooters who prioritize that feature.
If you appreciate the traditional feel, value a clean trigger pull, and don’t mind the lack of a firing pin safety, the 70 Series might be the right choice. If you want added safety and are less concerned about a slightly heavier trigger pull, the 80 Series may be a better fit. Both are iconic firearms and reliable, when well taken care of, and serve as excellent examples of the enduring appeal of the Colt 1911. Ultimately, the “best” choice is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
For those seeking further in-depth knowledge, I highly recommend researching 1911 history, maintenance, and variations. Dive deeper into the specifications to refine your understanding of these remarkable weapons.
