Sorry if this is a dumb question, but what is the difference between Series 70 and 80 triggers on the 1911?

The series 80 has a firing pin safety.  There's a pin that is moved out of the way of the firing pin when the trigger is pulled.  The series 70 doesn't have this.  If you dropped a series 70 with the hammer down on the firing pin so it hit the hammer (whcih is why you don't carry a .45 with the hammer down on a loaded chamber) the gun may go off.  Really a training issue, but they added it.

It's another part that has to move when you pull the trigger, and many don't like the resultant trigger pull.  I never noticed much of a difference, and I had no problems on my Stainless 80 I used to have.  

Ross

Thanks for the info Ross.

Certainly not a dumb question.......if you are interested in learning about the mechanics of 1911`s.....search for some parts breakdowns and compare the differences.......there`s plenty to be found......one thing....the 70 series has a "half cock" safety......so the 80 was most likely a upgrade due to the "glock drop" issue.........some PD`s do not allow carry of a 45 anyway...political correctness issue......search out info...have fun with it......................