The Rundown- Series70 and Series 80

Published on April 5, 2022
Duration: 2:50

This video explains the key differences between Colt Series 70 and Series 80 1911 pistols. The primary distinction lies in the Series 80's inclusion of a firing pin safety mechanism, designed to prevent accidental discharge if the firearm is dropped. While purists may prefer the Series 70 for its simpler design, both models are generally considered to shoot and feel the same, with the Series 80 adding extra internal parts for drop safety.

Quick Summary

The main difference between a Colt Series 70 and Series 80 1911 is the firing pin safety mechanism. The Series 80, introduced after 1983, includes this safety feature for enhanced drop safety, whereas the Series 70, produced until around 1983, does not. You can visually identify a Series 80 by a small plunger on the top of the slide.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Guest
  2. 00:11Series 70 vs. Series 80 Question
  3. 00:19What is a Series 70?
  4. 00:32What is a Series 80?
  5. 00:37Identifying a Series 80: The Plunger
  6. 01:00How the Safety Mechanism Works
  7. 01:11Visual Comparison: Series 70 vs. Series 80
  8. 01:20Reason for the Series 80 Safety: Drop Safety
  9. 01:51Is One Better Than the Other?
  10. 01:55Purist Preference for Series 70
  11. 02:05Performance and Feel Comparison
  12. 02:12Series 70 vs. Series 80: Extra Parts
  13. 02:20Impact on Trigger Pull
  14. 02:35Conclusion and Viewer Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between a Colt Series 70 and Series 80 1911?

The primary difference is the Series 80's inclusion of a firing pin safety mechanism. The Series 70, produced until around 1983, lacks this safety feature, while the Series 80, made after 1983, has it to enhance drop safety.

How can I visually identify if a 1911 is a Series 80?

The easiest way to identify a Series 80 1911 is by looking for a small plunger on the top of the slide. This is the firing pin safety plunger. A Series 70 model will not have this visible plunger.

Why was the firing pin safety added to the Series 80 1911?

The firing pin safety was added to the Series 80 design primarily for drop safety. The mechanism is intended to prevent the firing pin from having enough energy to ignite a primer if the firearm is dropped and impacts the ground.

Does the Series 80's firing pin safety significantly affect the trigger pull?

While the Series 80 has extra internal parts for its firing pin safety, the impact on the trigger pull is generally minimal. The spring for the safety plunger is rated in ounces, and most shooters would not notice a significant difference.

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