I have a line on an "early model" Series 80 1911 at a decent price, but I have no idea when the series 80 began production. Anyone know when this was?

I wanted to get a series 80 (series 80 because of the larger ejection port) Colt 1911 from before the slide into mediocrity and oblivion, so I would have a decent pistol to show for it. I believe this pistol fits the bill, as it has the tiny sights, short trigger, polished barrel hood and polished spur hammer.

The grips are the old walnut checkered with the gold Colt medallion.

Seems like what I wanted....

I am fairly confident in the early 80's. The 80 series is the model with the firing pin safety. Personally, I sold my Colt 1911's, all 70 series. My WW2 Mil-spec Springfield is more accurate without the collet bushing and never ever jams like my Colts always seemed to do.

The series 80 started production in 1983.

Thanks for the info! I confirmed the 1983 date in my collector's manual...