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Posted: 1/23/2017 10:49:28 PM EDT
86 days, not that I'm counting. I want to get one of Colt's base models, preferably blued or parkerized. Which model do I want? I'm not a good enough pistol shot to care about the series 80's supposed lack of receptiveness to trigger jobs. I have small hands, so I have no need for a beavertail safety. I will carry this gun sometimes, so it needs visible, but non snaggy sights. I want a full size, 5" model in 45 ACP. A slightly extended slide release would be great. I want to put a lot of cast lead bullets through this gun, so it should be able to cycle properly with such bullets. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 10:52:10 PM EDT
[#1]
LW commander
Good for carry, big enough to cycle.
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:20:09 PM EDT
[#2]
When I turned 21, I did the same thing and bought a Colt XSE 1911. It's the tits. I would recommend it.
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:39:32 PM EDT
[#3]
Wut!  Series 80s take awesome trigger jobs.  I have two.  
or is it three?
Don't eve worry about it!
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:39:44 PM EDT
[#4]
I would buy a 70 series. Gives you everything you described and would be a great platform to build on if you decide you want some upgrades down the road.
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:44:08 PM EDT
[#5]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
LW commander
Good for carry, big enough to cycle.
View Quote


I think if I got a commander, it would be a steel framed Combat Commander. It's a wonderful looking gun, and the sights look excellent. To me, saving that 3 or 4 ounces isn't worth having my 1911 be made of aluminum! I kid, but only a little. Steel would be my preference. To the people who have regularly carried both a Government and a Commander: Is there a significant difference in carry-ability? Thanks again, and keep those suggestions coming!
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:45:13 PM EDT
[#6]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Wut!  Series 80s take awesome trigger jobs.  I have two.  
or is it three?
Don't eve worry about it!
View Quote


That's good to hear! That's the direction I'm leaning. That extra little bit of safety is reassuring, for a gun that will spend a lot of its life pointed at my leg!
Link Posted: 1/23/2017 11:46:55 PM EDT
[#7]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I would buy a 70 series. Gives you everything you described and would be a great platform to build on if you decide you want some upgrades down the road.
View Quote


Can you expand on that? Are series 70 parts more available, or cheaper? What makes the 70 more up-gradable than an 80? To expand on that, do series 80s have parts compatibility issues if something breaks?

Thanks.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:08:13 AM EDT
[#8]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Can you expand on that? Are series 70 parts more available, or cheaper? What makes the 70 more up-gradable than an 80? To expand on that, do series 80s have parts compatibility issues if something breaks?

Thanks.
View Quote


Some people just don't like series 80 guns because of the extra "non-original" parts....fact is, a series 80 trigger can be worked on and be just as good as any series 70 trigger. I have two semi custom 1911's (series 70s) and one full custom, which is a Colt Commander (s80). Not the least bit worried about the 80 series safety parts and when I get it back from the smith, I know the trigger will be darn nice.

Bottom line, don't get too hung up on the 70vs80 deal.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:24:08 AM EDT
[#9]
Well the main differences between the original series 70 and series 80/90 is the
added parts that are required for the firing pin safety system that are put into
the slide and frame...

So these added parts to the pistol:

A) Decrease the crispness, feel, and add weight to the trigger pull...

B) Increases the potential of having problems down the road and
possibly making the pistol less reliable due to the added parts...

C) Does help prevent a AD if the pistol is dropped on its muzzle
on a hard surface with a round in the chamber...

For 1911 purists the series 70 is the only way to go due to the fantastic
trigger feel and lightness/crispness...

My has a sweet 3 lbs trigger pull, someone who has a fast trigger pull can
empty the pistol in less than 3 seconds...
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:30:10 AM EDT
[#10]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Can you expand on that? Are series 70 parts more available, or cheaper? What makes the 70 more up-gradable than an 80? To expand on that, do series 80s have parts compatibility issues if something breaks?

Thanks.
View Quote


I have both 70 and 80's series guns and much prefer the simplicity of the 70's series.  Most hardcore 1911 people will lean towards the 70 as well because the 80's series is considered a solution in search of a problem (there are no inherent safety issues with 70 series). All the of the Les Baer's, Wilson, Browns, Night Hawks, and etc are also 70 series designs. The Colt 70's series is a customshop gun. They're nice and given the choice I would go with it over an 80 any day.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:36:02 AM EDT
[#11]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Well the main differences between the original series 70 and series 80/90 is the
added parts that are required for the firing pin safety system that are put into
the slide and frame...

So these added parts to the pistol:

A) Decrease the crispness, feel, and add weight to the trigger pull...

B) Increases the potential of having problems down the road and
possibly making the pistol less reliable due to the added parts...

C) Does help prevent a AD if the pistol is dropped on its muzzle
on a hard surface with a round in the chamber...

For 1911 purists the series 70 is the only way to go due to the fantastic
trigger feel and lightness/crispness...

My has a sweet 3 lbs trigger pull, someone who has a fast trigger pull can
empty the pistol in less than 3 seconds...
View Quote


I do consider myself a selective purist. I will hopefully be getting one of those CMP 1911s coming down the pipeline, which will tickle my purist bone just fine. This gun will be a combination of form and function, with selective upgrades that have been devised over the last half century of illustrious service.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 6:50:54 AM EDT
[#12]
My first carry gun was a Springfield mil spec . Still miss it.

I think a guy with a screen name like yours should get the series 70 govt model.

Then get a milt sparks summer special and a good stiff belt then mags and ammo.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 7:56:51 AM EDT
[#13]
Go all out op!

Combat Elite





My only compliant is I don't like the front slide serrations. And the stock grips were too pretty to mess up so I replaced them with a set of VZ.

Colt does make a less expensive, blued gun too. The Competition or something. It has a fiber optic insert in the front sight that I dislike but that's easier to change the the extra slide serrations.


And second the recommendation on the Milt Sparks SS ll holster. I can carry the above pistol comfortably all day long. In fact when my tax refund comes in I'll be ordering one for my primary carry pistol.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 8:04:23 AM EDT
[#14]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Some people just don't like series 80 guns because of the extra "non-original" parts....fact is, a series 80 trigger can be worked on and be just as good as any series 70 trigger. I have two semi custom 1911's (series 70s) and one full custom, which is a Colt Commander (s80). Not the least bit worried about the 80 series safety parts and when I get it back from the smith, I know the trigger will be darn nice.

Bottom line, don't get too hung up on the 70vs80 deal.
View Quote

100% agree.

The kid is on the right track going Colt. If you do get a regular 1991 though you might wish you had some better sights, so it might make sense to buy one with Novak sights already.. such as the Rail Gun.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 10:08:30 AM EDT
[#15]
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 11:13:00 AM EDT
[#16]
Having had both stock and custom series 80 and 70 style guns, and being an d school bullseye shooter used to highly refined triggers, I see no difference in trigger pull stock or worked on to matter.
Since they enlarged the sights on the 1991 series some 25+ years ago over the old tiny GI sights I have found the factory sights just fine, and even shot a full class with a traditional World War One reproduction Colt with the tiny sights, and was recognized the most accurate shooter, with 50 year old eyes. At 21 years old any sights should work. All the following in colts line are under $1000 and should suit you fine:

Series 70
01991
Rail gun
Competition
Probably a couple more full lengths as well.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 11:20:29 AM EDT
[#17]
Welcome to the club.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 11:29:14 AM EDT
[#18]
Good for you! I waited till I was age 45 until I purchased a 1911, wish I would have done it much sooner. I also have small hands and it just feels right in my hand.

I got a Springfield loaded that shoots lead bullets very well.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:17:03 PM EDT
[#19]
Check out the Wiley Clapp line of Colts. Lots of features for quite a bit cheaper than it would cost to upgrade later down the road.

ETA - The WC series all have:
- Series 70 internals
- Novak wide notch rear sight (better for bad eyes)
- Novak brass bead front sight for visibility
- small GI thumb safety (less likely to disengage in holster)
- Beavertail and undercut trigger guard for higher grip
- frontstrap and mainspring housing 25 LPI checkering for a secure hold
- National Match barrel
- Beveled magazine well
- Grips that get narrower toward the frontstrap, which I find to be quite an improvement over stock 1911 grip shapes

Not a lot more than a stock series 70:
Wiley Clapp Government model

They also make a WC Lightweight Commander and a WC stainless Combat Commander.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:17:03 PM EDT
[#20]
Well, I have narrowed it down a little, but I am still open to suggestions.

I like the classic lines of the 1991, but the sights leave a little to be desired. Aesthetically, I love the spur hammer.

The Combat Commander is also a frontrunner, with the pre installed Novak sights, and lighter weight than a full size model would be ideal for carry. This model seems to include just a few extra features that I can see adding to a base model anyhow, such as the bump on the grip safety and slightly extended thumb safety. Aesthetically, I like the pony on the rear left part of the slide.

The Series 70 seems to have a faithful following, and I have to believe that is for a good reason. It just looks right, and that means a lot to me. Like the 1991 though, the sights are not ideal. Like I said in the OP, I am not a good enough shot with a pistol to care about the last marginal unit of trigger perfection.

While I am certainly open to other suggestions, these are the ones rising to the top right now.

Someone said that the S80 can be retrofitted back into a S70 type. Can anyone comment on this? Do you just need to remove the extra parts, or are there series 70 parts that need to be installed? Thanks everyone, I think I am getting closer! I still have three months to think, so hopefully I will find the right one in that time.

Oh, also. I am 20, but my eyes are terrible. Right now they are correctable to 20/20, but I need pretty strong glasses to get there. My eyes will probably stay bad for life, so visible sights are a boon to me.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 12:35:52 PM EDT
[#21]
I've never converted a series 80 to series 70, but from what I've read, it basically involves removing the series 80 firing pin safety parts in the frame and replacing them with a shim to keep the sear and whatnot in place. I think the firing pin safety plunger is also removed from the slide to allow the firing pin to travel forward when fired.

I wouldn't get bogged down with deciding between the two systems. A series 70 typically has a stronger firing pin spring and a lighter, titanium firing pin installed to minimize inertia if dropped.

A series 80 uses the trigger to push against two small levers in the frame, which push up a firing pin safety plunger out of the way of the firing pin. This system, which is similar to the firing pin safety setup found in most common service pistols today, has the trigger doing one more thing than a series 70, making the trigger feel slightly different, but it's not very perceptible to most folks in my experience. You also gain 3-4 extra parts during a detail strip of he pistol. What you gain is a piece of steel in the way of the firing pin should you drop the firearm, or have the sear fail in some manner.

I have Colts of each flavor, and have no problem shooting or carrying either. My series 70 Wiley Clapp LW Commander is cocked and locked on my hip as I write this and I have no reservations about it's safety.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 6:28:53 PM EDT
[#22]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I've never converted a series 80 to series 70, but from what I've read, it basically involves removing the series 80 firing pin safety parts in the frame and replacing them with a shim to keep the sear and whatnot in place. I think the firing pin safety plunger is also removed from the slide to allow the firing pin to travel forward when fired.

I wouldn't get bogged down with deciding between the two systems. A series 70 typically has a stronger firing pin spring and a lighter, titanium firing pin installed to minimize inertia if dropped.

A series 80 uses the trigger to push against two small levers in the frame, which push up a firing pin safety plunger out of the way of the firing pin. This system, which is similar to the firing pin safety setup found in most common service pistols today, has the trigger doing one more thing than a series 70, making the trigger feel slightly different, but it's not very perceptible to most folks in my experience. You also gain 3-4 extra parts during a detail strip of he pistol. What you gain is a piece of steel in the way of the firing pin should you drop the firearm, or have the sear fail in some manner.

I have Colts of each flavor, and have no problem shooting or carrying either. My series 70 Wiley Clapp LW Commander is cocked and locked on my hip as I write this and I have no reservations about it's safety.
View Quote


From your understanding, does this S80->S70 conversion produce an identical trigger pull to a factory S70? I ask, because I could consider getting the 80, and converting later if I find the trigger is not good enough.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 6:30:35 PM EDT
[#23]
Additionally, what spare parts would you recommend keeping on hand? What is prone to wear and breakage?
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 7:54:27 PM EDT
[#24]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


From your understanding, does this S80->S70 conversion produce an identical trigger pull to a factory S70? I ask, because I could consider getting the 80, and converting later if I find the trigger is not good enough.
View Quote


The spring force from the series 80 parts would no longer be present in the firearm, so they would no longer be influencing the trigger pull. A series 80 gun just adds the colored parts in the picture below. By removing them, you would essentially be left with a series 70 gun with a series 70 trigger pull.

Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 8:00:48 PM EDT
[#25]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Additionally, what spare parts would you recommend keeping on hand? What is prone to wear and breakage?
View Quote


Personally, I keep spares of any and all springs, to include the magazine catch, plunger, and flat sear springs. I also keep a spare extractor handy just in case.

Once you tear into a 1911 and really learn how it functions, I think you'll find it to be a rather simple pistol to maintain and operate.
Link Posted: 1/24/2017 9:50:03 PM EDT
[#26]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


The spring force from the series 80 parts would no longer be present in the firearm, so they would no longer be influencing the trigger pull. A series 80 gun just adds the colored parts in the picture below. By removing them, you would essentially be left with a series 70 gun with a series 70 trigger pull.

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/47838/IMG-3543-132931.JPG
View Quote


That looks great, thanks. I was going to ask about specifically what extra parts there were in the gun. The Combat Commander is definitely taking the lead for me.
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 1:15:02 AM EDT
[#27]
If you've never owned a 1911, or have never shot tuned or high end 1911's, I'm confident if someone laid a stock series 80 and a stock series 70 1911 in front of you, you would not be able to tell which is which by pulling their triggers. That is probably true for -most- people as well, even the ones that prefer 70 over 80....if anyone can produce a study or an example of a s80 gun failing because of the extra parts I'd love to see it....I'm not defending one or the other as i have both. Just seems like it is something that is dwelled on for no -real- reason.

Like said above don't buy based on this. Get the gun that has the options you want and in your price range. The series should be the last variable in your decision...

Just my opinion.
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 1:36:35 AM EDT
[#28]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
If you've never owned a 1911, or have never shot tuned or high end 1911's, I'm confident if someone laid a stock series 80 and a stock series 70 1911 in front of you, you would not be able to tell which is which by pulling their triggers. That is probably true for -most- people as well, even the ones that prefer 70 over 80....if anyone can produce a study or an example of a s80 gun failing because of the extra parts I'd love to see it....I'm not defending one or the other as i have both. Just seems like it is something that is dwelled on for no -real- reason.

Like said above don't buy based on this. Get the gun that has the options you want and in your price range. The series should be the last variable in your decision...

Just my opinion.
View Quote


I appreciate that assessment. As said, I am strongly leaning towards the Combat Commander right now. It seems to have everything I want, and nothing I don't. Good sights, the speed bump on the grip safety, and the aesthetic. I could do without the holes drilled through the trigger, but hey. You can't win them all.
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 1:42:40 AM EDT
[#29]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


I appreciate that assessment. As said, I am strongly leaning towards the Combat Commander right now. It seems to have everything I want, and nothing I don't. Good sights, the speed bump on the grip safety, and the aesthetic. I could do without the holes drilled through the trigger, but hey. You can't win them all.
View Quote


Every 1911 I own now has a flat trigger installed. There are plenty of very reputable smiths out there that can put whatever trigger you wish in -and- perform a trigger job at what I consider a very reasonable price. If you ship from an FFL shipping of a handgun is cheap as well. Something to consider down the road. Minor details in the long haul...I sent a Les Baer UTC to Evolution Armory for the installation of a Wilson flat trigger, among other things, turn around and price were great.
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 10:21:08 AM EDT
[#30]
Quoted:
86 days, not that I'm counting. I want to get one of Colt's base models, preferably blued or parkerized. Which model do I want? I'm not a good enough pistol shot to care about the series 80's supposed lack of receptiveness to trigger jobs. I have small hands, so I have no need for a beavertail safety. I will carry this gun sometimes, so it needs visible, but non snaggy sights. I want a full size, 5" model in 45 ACP. A slightly extended slide release would be great. I want to put a lot of cast lead bullets through this gun, so it should be able to cycle properly with such bullets. Any suggestions? Thanks.
View Quote


Congrats for having the good sense to avoid the clones and get the original.  Avoid the MIM-filled Johnny-come-latelys.  Some Springers are okay, but a Colt will always be a Colt, and therefore will retain its value if you ever sell it or trade it for something else.

1915 Colt 1911 - "Pancho Villa" commemorative edition.
Filled with testicular fortitude. No MIM-crap
.


Yep, when thugy illegals crossed our southern border and killed Americans, did we wet our panties and run to find a safe space?

Nope, we saddled-up with 1903 Springfields and Colt .45s, and went down to Mexico and shot them.

That should our policy again, in addition to a Wall.
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 12:17:54 PM EDT
[#31]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Congrats for having the good sense to avoid the clones and get the original.  Avoid the MIM-filled Johnny-come-latelys.  Some Springers are okay, but a Colt will always be a Colt, and therefore will retain its value if you ever sell it or trade it for something else.

1915 Colt 1911 - "Pancho Villa" commemorative edition.
Filled with testicular fortitude. No MIM-crap
.
Yep, when thugy illegals crossed our southern border and killed Americans, did we wet our panties and run to find a safe space?

Nope, we saddled-up with 1903 Springfields and Colt .45s, and went down to Mexico and shot them.

That should our policy again, in addition to a Wall.
View Quote


That there is a fine lead slinging implement! I considered going for a Springfield, I really did. And I will likely get some full sized model in the future, perhaps even a Rock Island! But right now, I think the Combat Commander will be mine!
Link Posted: 1/25/2017 7:29:20 PM EDT
[#32]
Get a Colt Gov't 70 series for your first one. The sights and other stuff can all be added later if you want. There is nothing really wrong with the 80's other than the extra and unnecessary parts.  They are a little more PITA to put back together too if you ever decide to detail strip. This is one CCS did a couple of years ago which was built on a 70.

Link Posted: 3/21/2017 11:45:42 AM EDT
[#33]
I reserved my Colt Combat Commander from the LGS today. 31 days to go!
Link Posted: 3/22/2017 8:25:45 AM EDT
[#34]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Check out the Wiley Clapp line of Colts. Lots of features for quite a bit cheaper than it would cost to upgrade later down the road.

ETA - The WC series all have:
- Series 70 internals
- Novak wide notch rear sight (better for bad eyes)
- Novak brass bead front sight for visibility
- small GI thumb safety (less likely to disengage in holster)
- Beavertail and undercut trigger guard for higher grip
- frontstrap and mainspring housing 25 LPI checkering for a secure hold
- National Match barrel
- Beveled magazine well
- Grips that get narrower toward the frontstrap, which I find to be quite an improvement over stock 1911 grip shapes

Not a lot more than a stock series 70:
Wiley Clapp Government model

They also make a WC Lightweight Commander and a WC stainless Combat Commander.
View Quote
I was going to post something similar. The WC's are a huge upgrade over the base series 70 or 80 guns for a relatively small increase in price. Much better guns and value IMO.
Link Posted: 3/23/2017 6:11:50 AM EDT
[#35]
I just bought a Combat Commander steel frame. LOVE IT . It actually had the wrong grips on it. I called Colt and they apologized and sent me the correct Colt logo grips. I did remove my Mag catch and slightly polish an edge to allow less force for the mag to insert. It was extremely stiff in my opinion . Your getting an really nice COLT . Cheers Wardawg
Link Posted: 3/23/2017 8:28:48 AM EDT
[#36]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I just bought a Combat Commander steel frame. LOVE IT . It actually had the wrong grips on it. I called Colt and they apologized and sent me the correct Colt logo grips. I did remove my Mag catch and slightly polish an edge to allow less force for the mag to insert. It was extremely stiff in my opinion . Your getting an really nice COLT . Cheers Wardawg
View Quote
Thanks friend! I can barely contain how excited I am.
Link Posted: 3/25/2017 3:14:02 PM EDT
[#37]
I'm getting really impatient waiting. Could you folks post up pics of your Commanders?
Link Posted: 3/26/2017 12:59:50 AM EDT
[#38]
Here's one->


Bottom gun, same Commander w/ Ahrend's ebony wood grips in a Privateer Leather holster->
Link Posted: 3/26/2017 1:35:05 AM EDT
[#39]
Here's my Combat Commander.

Link Posted: 3/26/2017 9:27:40 AM EDT
[#40]
Beautiful guns, fellas. I've already bought a Mad Max holster, and some Chip McCormick mags. And I've been stockpiling lead in order to cast 200 grain pills. I hope the DeSantis works for me. It gets pretty good reviews. I'd definitely rather not spend all that money on a Milt Sparks.
Link Posted: 3/26/2017 9:35:13 AM EDT
[#41]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted: * * *
* * *
Oh, also, I am 20, but my eyes are terrible. Right now they are correctable to 20/20, but I need pretty strong glasses to get there. My eyes will probably stay bad for life, so visible sights are a boon to me.
View Quote
I'm significantly older, but had similarly bad eye-sight. I strongly recommend having LASIK surgery by a reputable surgeon once you get to the stage in life where you can afford it.

That,  and Viagra.
Link Posted: 3/26/2017 9:36:47 AM EDT
[#42]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I'm significantly older, but had similarly bad eye-sight. I strongly recommend having LASIK surgery by a reputable surgeon once you get to the stage in life where you can afford it.

That,  and Viagra.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted: * * *
* * *
Oh, also, I am 20, but my eyes are terrible. Right now they are correctable to 20/20, but I need pretty strong glasses to get there. My eyes will probably stay bad for life, so visible sights are a boon to me.
I'm significantly older, but had similarly bad eye-sight. I strongly recommend having LASIK surgery by a reputable surgeon once you get to the stage in life where you can afford it.

That,  and Viagra.
I'm hoping to get LASIK once I'm out of college, and making some more cash. And I definitely don't need Viagra.
Link Posted: 3/28/2017 2:24:53 PM EDT
[#43]
Get a Colt Rail Gun.

Bucket list: replace the 80's firing pin safety with a 70's conversion shim ($10) and a Wilson Combat Titanium firing pin ($30), replace the sights with Trijicon three dots, green front yellow back ($100). Get a Wilson Combat adjustable trigger ($40) some slide buffers and a 17 lb spring ($15)

Have a quality gun smith do the sights and a trigger job at around 4-5 lbs for a comfortable balance of range accuracy and self defense safety ($75-150)

Get a Surefire light for the rail. ($125-200)

Get some 10 rd power mags x4 ($100)

Heres my reasoning:

This sounds like your first quality pistol purchase. 1911s are a great choice. Unless you are only getting a pistol for range sport use, it is important to purchase something that is viable for self defense, because really that's why we train with weapons.

The Colt Rail gun has the potential for novak night sights. To make up for the arguable benefits, the Rail Gun can be converted to series 70 mechanisms easily. The Rail Gun has standard interchangeable parts, a lot of "new" 1911 builds do not. It has a full steel frame, a lot of "new" 1911 builds do not. It has a rail, allowing use of a weapon, a must for any viable self defense pistol.

All in all the Colt Rail Gun is the standard of excellence for entry level self defense 1911s. Their only issue is potential slide cracking after the 10,000 rd mark, this weakness is negated by $15 in parts without any smithing.

If this is going to be your "go to" full size 1911 for real world use, and your first pistol, I highly recommend
the Rail Gun.
Link Posted: 3/28/2017 2:33:43 PM EDT
[#44]
Whoops I'm late.

I would still recommend the above additions minus the light. Grats on your new Colt.
Link Posted: 3/28/2017 2:51:36 PM EDT
[#45]
I appreciate the advice, but my go to house gun is either an AR with Surefire and Aimpoint,  or a Glock 20 with TLR 1 if for aome reason I need a pistol. This 1911 is strictly for carry and target practice. I will look into night sights. If I find that the trigger is not good enough, I will see about retrofitting the series 70 features. For now, that extra bit of safety seems like a worthwhile trade off for a small loss in trigger quality.
Link Posted: 3/28/2017 3:16:54 PM EDT
[#46]
The trigger pull isnt the only issue with 80s firing pin safeties. The real issue is reliability in the field.

The entire 80s system relies on a 1/16" hole with a tiny spring:


If this tiny hole gets clogged with something the tiny spring cannot overcome the 1911 will critically fail and require partial to full disassembly to clear the spring port. It is a serious weak point when compared the heavy duty reliability of the 1911s original mechanisms.

It's really just a terrible addition produced in the 90's during clinton era gun lawyering. Similar safety goals can be accomplished by replacing the firing pin safety parts with a shim and upgrading the stock firing pin with a Titanium one.

If it's just a range gun, why not convert it for a cleaner trigger pull?
If its a self defense / combat pistol, why not convert it to maintain its historic reliability?

IMHO it's really a must for either application.
Link Posted: 3/28/2017 5:34:22 PM EDT
[#47]
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Quoted:
If you've never owned a 1911, or have never shot tuned or high end 1911's, I'm confident if someone laid a stock series 80 and a stock series 70 1911 in front of you, you would not be able to tell which is which by pulling their triggers. That is probably true for -most- people as well, even the ones that prefer 70 over 80....if anyone can produce a study or an example of a s80 gun failing because of the extra parts I'd love to see it....I'm not defending one or the other as i have both. Just seems like it is something that is dwelled on for no -real- reason.

Like said above don't buy based on this. Get the gun that has the options you want and in your price range. The series should be the last variable in your decision...

Just my opinion.
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I cant remember if i still have the pictures but i most certainly had an 80 series colt fail
Because of those extra parts.

I'm not saying it happens to people every day but acting like it doesnt happen is wrong too.


I would never own one again.

I'd much rather take my chances with less drop safety and less to go wrong to each there own.
Link Posted: 4/1/2017 6:28:18 AM EDT
[#48]
That picture does not depict a Colt series 80 frame. A Colt will have a series of two levers in the frame that raise a firing pin block plunger in the slide.

Attachment Attached File



I'm not saying that a series 80 has never experienced a failure due to the added parts, but I have a hard time understanding how this added 'risk' could not be mitigated by A) periodically cleaning the pistol and b) replacing the firing pin plunger spring in the slide whenever other springs are changed out on a regular basis.
Link Posted: 4/1/2017 8:01:45 AM EDT
[#49]
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Quoted: ...It's really just a terrible addition produced in the 90's during clinton era gun lawyering...
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Colt "MK IV Series 80" pistols were introduced in 1983 and have NO connection with Clinton.
Link Posted: 4/1/2017 8:08:12 AM EDT
[#50]
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Quoted:
I'm getting really impatient waiting. Could you folks post up pics of your Commanders?
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