Understanding the 1911 Pistol: A Comparison of the 70 Series vs 80 Series
The 1911 pistol, designed by John Moses Browning, has been a stalwart of firearms for over a century. Its popularity has led to numerous variations and improvements over the years. Two notable series, the 70 Series and the 80 Series, were introduced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company, LLC, to address safety concerns and improve the overall design. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between the 1911 70 Series and 80 Series pistols.
Design Evolution and Purpose
The original 1911 design was a masterpiece of simplicity and functionality. However, with the passage of time, the need for improved safety features became apparent. The 70 Series, introduced in the 1970s, was Colt’s response to this need. It incorporated a few changes, but the most significant upgrades came with the introduction of the 80 Series in the 1980s.
1. Safety Features: The Most Significant Difference
Colt 70 Series Safety Features:
- The 70 Series retains the original 1911 design’s basic safety features, including a manual safety and a grip safety.
- However, it lacks a firing pin safety, which is a crucial component in modern firearms.
Colt 80 Series Safety Features:
- The 80 Series, on the other hand, introduced a firing pin safety (FPS) mechanism.
- This mechanism prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pressed.
- The addition of the FPS significantly enhances the safety of the pistol, reducing the risk of accidental discharges.
2. Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism is another area where the 70 Series and 80 Series differ.
Colt 70 Series Trigger Mechanism:
- The 70 Series uses the original 1911 single-action trigger design.
- While this design is revered for its crisp, clean pull, it lacks the safety features of more modern designs.
Colt 80 Series Trigger Mechanism:
- The 80 Series incorporates a trigger mechanism that works in conjunction with the firing pin safety.
- This mechanism ensures that the trigger cannot be pulled unless the firing pin safety is fully disengaged.
3. Slide Design
Colt 70 Series Slide Design:
- The 70 Series retains the original 1911 slide design, with a solid recoil spring plug.
- This design is simple and effective but lacks the improvements of the 80 Series.
Colt 80 Series Slide Design:
- The 80 Series features a new slide design with a recoil spring plug that is drilled for the firing pin safety mechanism.
- This design allows for the integration of the FPS, providing a higher level of safety.
4. Frame Design
The frame design is another area where the 70 Series and 80 Series differ.
Colt 70 Series Frame Design:
- The 70 Series retains the original 1911 frame design, with a solid trigger guard.
- This design is simple and effective but lacks the improvements of the 80 Series.
Colt 80 Series Frame Design:
- The 80 Series features a new frame design with a trigger guard that is drilled for the firing pin safety mechanism.
- This design allows for the integration of the FPS, providing a higher level of safety.
5. Parts Interchangeability
Colt 70 Series Parts Interchangeability:
- The 70 Series has a high level of parts interchangeability with the original 1911 design.
- This makes it an attractive option for those who want to upgrade or modify their pistols.
Colt 80 Series Parts Interchangeability:
- The 80 Series has a lower level of parts interchangeability with the original 1911 design.
- This is due to the significant changes made to the design to accommodate the firing pin safety mechanism.
📝 Note: While the 80 Series has a lower level of parts interchangeability, many modern manufacturers offer parts that are compatible with the 80 Series design.
Table of Key Differences
| Feature | Colt 70 Series | Colt 80 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Features | No firing pin safety | Firing pin safety (FPS) mechanism |
| Trigger Mechanism | Original 1911 single-action trigger design | Trigger mechanism with FPS integration |
| Slide Design | Original 1911 slide design | New slide design with FPS integration |
| Frame Design | Original 1911 frame design | New frame design with FPS integration |
| Parts Interchangeability | High level of parts interchangeability with original 1911 design | Lower level of parts interchangeability with original 1911 design |
The 1911 pistol has undergone significant changes over the years, with the 70 Series and 80 Series being two notable iterations. While the 70 Series retains the original 1911 design’s charm, the 80 Series offers improved safety features, making it a more attractive option for those who prioritize safety.
In conclusion, the choice between the 1911 70 Series and 80 Series ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value the original 1911 design and are comfortable with the lack of a firing pin safety, the 70 Series may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize safety and are willing to accept the changes made to the design, the 80 Series is the better option.
What is the main difference between the 1911 70 Series and 80 Series?
+
The main difference between the 1911 70 Series and 80 Series is the addition of a firing pin safety (FPS) mechanism in the 80 Series, which significantly enhances the safety of the pistol.
Is the 1911 70 Series still a reliable option?
+
Yes, the 1911 70 Series is still a reliable option, but it lacks the safety features of the 80 Series. If you value the original 1911 design and are comfortable with the lack of a firing pin safety, the 70 Series may be the better choice.
Are the parts of the 1911 70 Series and 80 Series interchangeable?
+
The 1911 70 Series has a high level of parts interchangeability with the original 1911 design, while the 80 Series has a lower level of parts interchangeability due to the significant changes made to the design.
Related Terms:
- Series 80 1911 manufacturers
- Series 80 1911 Parts
- Series 80 2011
- Series 70 1911
- Colt 1911 Series 80
