What does it mean? Colt Series 70, 80 & 90 1911s w/ comparison of 1911 vs. 1911A1

[@REBELSCL]

This video is by far the clearest explanation of the different models of the 1911. Thank you very much.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tysauce1986]

I second this comment. Thanks for taking the time to make the video!

[@sum12see]

Ive been carrying my Series 80 Colt 1911 for at least 12 year but I've owned it for almost 30 year.. Stainless steel with night sights, Full length Wilson Combat recoil rod..Houge wrap around grips,and cut trigger sear to 3.5lbs?!!!.That platform is a true piece of firearms history....I love my Colt S/S 1911!!!...

[@thetexasgunvault]

They are all great!

[@billwcc]

I have the same pistol, love it!

[@danielobannon6776]

Outstanding, concise, and informative video. Thank you.

[@sharkclub1]

@@sum12see i have a 80s series nationsl match gold cup 👍

[@tombazemore1098]

I bought a new Series 70 in the early 80’s. It started my rabbit hole dive into frame upgrades, trigger jobs, adjustable sights, and of course, reloading to afford the ammo. Was averaging over 500 rounds a month. Now at 67 with arthritis pain from broken wrists, I don’t shoot it much anymore. Have gone down in size to 9mm and even .380 ACP. Still, gotta love the 1911. Great informative video!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much for taking the time to watch!

[@samuelsmith1680]

You might want to look into the Browning Black Label series of .380. It is said to be an 85% replica of the full size 1911. I love mine in regular black with ambi safety; replaced with Hillbilly Grips elk horn from a guy in Southeastern Kentucky.

[@tombazemore1098]

@@samuelsmith1680 I’ve been looking at the Browning 380’s as well as some others. So far, I like my Sig P 365-380 that I have the 9mm X and XL slides for. It’s a soft shooter. But the single action tuned 1911 trigger is so sweet! Thanks for the info.

[@tombazemore1098]

Two days ago, I bought the Browning 1911-380 and went to the range today. Over 150 rounds later with zero issues, I have to say it’s a keeper. The controls are like it’s bigger brother so very familiar. The extended slide release is super easy and the slide goes forward with a positive 1911 snick. The accuracy was better than the Sig with the same loads. A little expensive for sure, but whatever…

[@willwilliam217]

I am also 67, looked at the 380 browning before. Only 380 is my ruger lcp max and security 380 (highly recommended). My favorite is still 45 acp but own two 9mm 1911’s.

[@ToxicMasculinity-t5q]

I have a Colt MK IV series 70 1911 i bought brand new in 1980 for $311.12 cents that i still carry to this day. in 2001 i had to replace the extractor because the original had worn to the point that it was failing to extract, but other than that John Browning's magnificent design is still going strong.

[@thetexasgunvault]

John Browning designed them to last

[@genelyda1102]

You got lucky with your Colt MK IV series 70 1911 that you bought new in 1980 for $311.12 , you got the last of that series 70 pistols . The last year was up through 1983. 1983 was the transition year over to the 1980s firing pin system to satisfy the liberal lawyers and still be able to make guns. The target shooters are the ones who persuaded colt to build the publics favorite MK IV series 70 target pistols. If you are lucky to fine one build from 2016 to 2018 that would be great for you .

[@russ747]

Be glad you have an old one when Colt still had high quality standards I recently bought a gold cup lt nm and its a pos and colt says " it meets their acceptable standards for wear"

[@grayharker6271]

Bought mine in 84,for $400. It has the colett bushing. Retired it when I got my series 80 cmd lw

[@russ747]

His design is perfect , sadly Colts new interpretation and quality standards of it is the issue. My Springfield Armory has no issues and I'm well over 3,000 rounds into it

[@mustangtonto5862]

EXCELLENT explanation of the minute differences. The firing pin block being the primary factor between a Series 70 and the Series 80 cleared away the “fog”. Thank you! I have subscribed.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much and I appreciate your comment!

[@microchrist6122]

Currently shopping my first Colt , had plenty of cheap 1911s, this was helpful!!

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am glad I could help!

[@thaknobodi]

How were the cheap ones? Tisas any good?

[@5stargunsandgear]

Great video. As a former 1911 gunsmith 1911s are one of my favorite guns. The split compresson 70 series bushing indeen hold the barrel tighter on the mozzle end. Matter of fact many nation match pistols had them They do work.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I would love to try a pistol equipped with one one day

[@5stargunsandgear]

@@thetexasgunvault I have a caspian build I am about to do. And will be using the collet compression bushing and barrel from a national match and will do a video. You should try one I bet you can get one from gun parts corp pretty cheap. If I run across a extra I will contact you and send it to you.

[@richardkluesek4301]

@@thetexasgunvault These split collet bushing work, I installed one on my older .22 conversion top end and it tightened up the wide spread grouping.

[@albertkinney8021]

Wow that's good to know I inherited a model 70 national match it's like new so I have not broke it down yet. Thanks for the info

[@modmojo6629]

Picked up my 70 series (stainless) Combat Commander 30 years ago. Absolutely love it to this day. I did replace the barrel (now a threaded Ed Brown) and went with a Wilson Combat 2-piece rod/spring/solid collet. After 30K plus rounds in my low estimate, it was time to upgrade the main parts. Never touched the trigger, it always "felt" right to me. Always looking for a GVT model, or two.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is awesome! Sounds like you have a wonderful pistol.

[@leonardbosinski540]

I also have a Colt Combat Commander bought new in 1970 for $107. It was stolen New Years Eve 1975 and returned to me ten years later, found in the possession of a Mexican National very close to the border, in the City of National City. The original satin nickel finish was in bad shape so I had the whole pistol tricked out and hard chromed by Mathews & Sons. I don't care what collectors may think but I improved the piece, IMO, and of course, I am glad to have it back. It was my first and still my favorite.

[@enriqueoliva6988]

​​@@leonardbosinski540 I knew Mathews and sons in Downey, CA.I frequent their store and a regular customer.They did a custom work on my first MKIV SERIES 70.The father pass away and that's the end of their business.

[@actionjksn]

Did you have to do any hand fitting with the new barrel, or was it a drop in install?

[@modmojo6629]

@@actionjksn yes, even if you buy what they call a drop in bbl, it still needed a little work.

[@scottmurphy650]

I had a Colt 1991 for a number of years. The slide/receiver fit was a little sloppy and the trigger pull on the heavy side and not all that smooth but it shot well. I eventually sold it. I now have a Springfield Armory 1911A1 and love it. It is super tight and smooth and shoots _extremely_ well. I added a full length guide rod and an adjustable rear sight but that was it. The trigger is perfect. We used to call the series 80 firing pin block the "Ralph Nader Switch". It was totally superfluous. You had both a grip and slide safety.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Sounds like you have a wonderful pistol there. I can tell you that Colts depending on when they were made have different levels of quality. I am hopeful now that CZ owns Colt, the will focus on higher quality firearms and innovation.

[@scottmurphy650]

@@thetexasgunvault It is a shooter for sure. I put "Slide Glide" in the grooves of both the receiver and slide and it is absolutely smooth as butter with zero play. The adjustable rear sight is fantastic as well.

[@Satchmoeddie]

90s Colt stuff was pretty much red hot garbage. I have some little Colt D Frame revolvers that I absolutely love, so when Colt found a bunch of D frames in the 1990s and made the 4 inch barrel Police Positive Mk III version of their Detective Special, I bought one. What a POS!

[@matthiashellmann6211]

your clip helped me a lot. I got my first 1911 A1 last year in spite of beeing a shooter for decades It is a 175 anniversary limited Ohio of the seventies. I always wanted an old 1911 A1 so I decided to buy that. It is hard to find not used Colt Pistols here in Germany. A couple of month later I bought a gold cup conversion unit. Shooting .45ACP is much more fun than a 9mm I only shot since the mid 80ties. Now I have much more fun on the range, 45ACP is a great round for exercise shooting. Greetings from Germany.......

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I am so happy to hear people around the world watch and enjoy my videos.

[@douglasharp2278]

Thank you for your presentation on Colt pistols. I purchased the 100th anniversary model Colt 1911 about 12cyears ago. Glad to know this reintroduction pistol is the original John Browning design. Did not know that until watching your excellent comparison with other Colt 45's. The pistol , spare magazine come packed in the brown protective paper and a reprint of the original army instruction manual are all a nice touch of historical nostalgia. Will keep this locked away and unfired just to have a small piece of Colt history thanks to John Browning.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome and you have a wonderful 1911 there!

[@cleondubois1270]

Very interesting history lesson...Circa 1972-73 I carried a series 70 as a part-time officer on our small county seat PD. Had the ramp polished for the 185 grain controlled-expansion rounds. I was never comfortable with it cocked & locked or the choice of LE holsters available......Traded it for a new 357 Colt Trooper Mk. III.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Both those guns are really nice. Thank you for watching.

[@imthatguy1878]

I have more colt 1911s than I actually need but I love every one of them, from ww1 ww2 to modern variants chambered from 45acp, 38 super, 9mm, 30 luger to the original 22 conversion kit. I enjoy watching others talk about their pistols and try to pick up tidbits of info I may not know. One of my favorites to carry is a 1951 lw commander in 38 super, Thanks for a great vid that will help many new owners wondering the difference

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! That 1951 commander is one of the first!

[@RTmadnesstoo]

Does your .22 conversion kit have the 'floating chamber'? It is supposed to make the .22 recoil feel similar to the ACP. I love my Series 70 and my 38 Super Commander also. I wish the Commander was as accurate as my Series 70.

[@stuntmanmike37]

It wasn't just the collet that was different. The Mark IV Series 70 barrels actually had a very slight tapering flare at the end of the muzzle that the collet fingers would snug up against when the slide went into battery. The idea was that the barrel would be tight and return to the same place every time the slide came forward.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you for that additional information

[@imthatguy1878]

You're exactly right and to remove the bushing from the slots in the slide you pull the slide slightly out of battery to the thinner part of the barrel and it'll turn easy like on most other 1911s

[@RTmadnesstoo]

Yes and in a properly fitted barrel and collet assembly the collet never really flexed but snugged on the taper as it went into battery. The collets that broke were actually flexing onto the large diameter each time it was fired. If your collet didn't break in the first 1000 rounds it probably never would because iy was properly set up. Mine is still going strong and accurate as can be.

[@MarineVeteran99]

I'll stick to the original WWII issued 1911A1. Maybe with a new beavertail, hammer and trigger. But I love the old school 1911A1's.

[@thetexasgunvault]

the classic look is awesome!

[@dobermanpac1064]

As a 45acp lover black guns or 1911 I found your comments helpful in understanding some of the “why’s “. 👍👍🇺🇸

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I am so glad I was helpful.

[@keithplymale2374]

This was an excellent video. I have my uncles 1943 Ithaca 1911A1. I have an older Springfield what they called the "Military Model" back in the day. I just got a Tisas 1911A1 that they said has "Series 70" internals. Of course both of those have the larger ejection port.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much and it sounds like you have a great collection there! I am so glad that this video is helping people and it is why I made it.

[@tpelle2]

Note that the four "fingers" of the Series 70 barrel bushing were actually sort of squeezed together purposely so as to tightly grip the barrel throughout it's tilting motion during cycling. As you noted, this was intended to improve accuracy. However, the flexing that the fingers underwent during this cycle caused metal fatigue of the bushing fingers, which is what caused them to break off and the now loose piece would jam the action. The Series 70 bushing was only used in "commercial" market pistols, not, to my knowledge, in any military pistols. (All other non-series 70 bushings are actually bored in a slightly tapered manner, getting a larger internal diameter towards the rear, to accommodate the tilting action of the barrel.) You explained the Series 80 passive firing pin safety very well, but failed to mention the Swartz Safety used on some pre-WWII commercial pistols. The Swartz Safety, named after the Colt employee who invented it, was very much like the Series 80 safety that came later, except that it was not deactivated by the trigger pull, as on the Series 80, but was deactivated by the shooter squeezing the grip safety. The Swartz Safety was the answer to some accidental discharges experienced when the pistol was dropped, and it was only ever installed on commercial pistols. It too was never used on any military pistols. The problem with the Swartz Safety came about if the shooter failed to fully compress the grip safety, and the possibility that the Swartz Safety would sometimes allow the trigger to be released BEFORE the Swartz Safety would clear the firing pin travel. In other words, the shooter would have the hammer fall but the firing pin might not fire the cartridge - click instead of bang. In the period of time immediately after the entry of the U.S. into WWII, immediately after Pearl Harbor, the U.S. Government placed a huge order for M1911A1 pistols, and asked for delivery as soon as possible. The Colt Company realized that it had a large number of commercial model pistols in their warehouse, and they asked the Army if they would accept them as they could be shipped immediately. These pistols were identical to the pistols built to military specifications except that they were "serialized" in the range that Colt used for commercial pistols instead of the serial numbers as applied to military pistols , they had a high-quality polished blue finish instead of military Parkerizing, and they had the Swartz Safety. The Army accepted them under the condition that Colt remove the blue finish and apply the Parkerized finish, re-apply serial numbers in the Army-specified range as well as other markings, and delete the Swartz Safety. The pistols still did have the extra machining cuts that accommodated the Swartz Safety parts which consisted of square holes in the top of the frame and matching square holes in the bottom of the slide. Otherwise, after the mods were completed, the pistols were identical to all other military WWII pistols. So if you have an actual G.I. M1911A1 pistol, and it has a matching pair of square holes in the slide and frame, you hit the jackpot as these are as rare as unicorns.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Wow! Thank you for all this great information! I really learned a lot and I appreciate you sharing this wealth of knowledge!

[@gvines]

Great add on!

[@JohnFree007]

Great presentation. The best explanation that I have heard.

[@joemarchinski914]

great info and knowledge...thank you for sharing👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸...I would bet you have a very respectable collection....kinda wish you were my neighbor...

[@pb68slab18]

Many people not only broke the 'fingers' , but also tore up the end of the barrel too by not drawing the slide back 1/2in or so before turning that asinine-design bushing!

[@BaddFrogg777]

As always a most excellent and detailed overview. Thank you for taking the time. The 1911 is an American Icon and a beautiful piece of machinery. Peace

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I am glad you enjoyed it!

[@michaelogden5958]

After spending some time with a friend's slicked-up (gunsmith tuned) WWII Colt 1911, I fell in love with the trigger. I thought I had to have a "1911". I ended up getting a full size Sig Nightmare. It was (in my opinion) a true nightmare. The trigger was nearly as sloppy as a Glock. But, I scoured KZbin for 1911 "gunsmithing". I de-80'd it, replaced a few parts, and spent HOURS with polishing stones. I'm happy to say that my nightmare is over. My Nightmare will now match my buddy's slicked-up Colt. It is my most cherished handgun.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Great comment and story. I am glad to hear you got it working like you wanted

[@TXGRunner]

I'd love to have a Sig Nightmare carry in 357 Sig, if they still made them, but the firing pin block is a deal killer. I understand why they did it and why Kimber went to the Swartz "safety," but both systems add complexity, reduce reliability, and, in the case of the series 80 firing pin block, undermines the core advantage of the 1911: the trigger. Today, are they even necessary to have a drop safe gun? Brownell's, Wilson Combat, and others advertise super lightweight titanium firing pins with stiffer firing pins as "improving" or "enhancing" drop safety. They argue a titanium firing pin lacks the mass to develop the inertia to detonate a primer in the standard drop safety tests. I've not seen video of this or a write-up of formal testing - who wants to drop valuable 1911s onto concrete intentionally - however this is generally accepted as true. Sure, the FP is not actually blocked, but the supposed issue is whether the gun will discharge if dropped from a set height onto a hardened surface at just the right angle. This seems sufficient to satisfy even the state of California.

[@kevinkane9673]

What a thorough explanation of the various 1911 models and their evolution over time. Very educational 👍👏

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad you liked it!

[@boogiemorgan]

I own 2 series 70 stainless, 1 is unfired new, and the other has been a very good shooter and protector. I trust them and have never had any problems with them. Thanks for a very good review!😊

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome

[@boogiemorgan]

@@thetexasgunvault God Bless!

[@boogiemorgan]

@@thetexasgunvault God Bless!

[@brianedgett2134]

I'm empress you understand all the changes of each of the features. I had to go to a gunsmithing school to learn that.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you. I love learning everything I can about every gun I own

[@willwilliam217]

Thank you for your great video explaining the model differences. In early 2018 I only owned a older beretta 92 and a sw 28-2 revolver. Since retirement I have been collecting and enjoying many types of handguns. The 1911 is one of my favorites, currently own 8, all series 70 (no safety plunger). I regretfully let go of a Remington r1 gov with a great trigger and a sig stx gov with a horrendous trigger (over 6#). My most expensive is a flagship dan wesson I found used that needed some love to get operational. I do own one colt, a series 70 competition that had a pretty heavy trigger before I installed a c&s kit and polished internals. Enjoy your Texas summer, just started getting some high 80’s days in Mi.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I appreciate your comment!

[@johnicenhower4175]

My first “1911” was a Model 1991. It’s been so long since I’ve had it apart I can’t remember but seems like it’s a Series 80, Mark “something”. It was my only pistol for many years and the only 1911 I could find of any model or series. It has a large roll mark “1991”. I used it qualifying for my concealed carry license and did very well with it. Since that time I’ve bought several models including the WWI “reissue” (for lack of a better term), Series 70, stainless Govt, commander, lightweight commander, officer in stainless and blued and have now branched off on the Tisas 1911A1 Army in 45 and their 1911 9mm. Lately I’ve shot the Tisas more than my Colts. They are very nice and are built well and shoot as good as my Colts. Thanks for the informative video. (A fellow Texan)

[@thetexasgunvault]

Yes, a M1991 Mark IV is a series 80

[@countryboy4542]

I bought an almost new Mk 4 Series 70 for $70 in 1977 from a cop that was leaving the force to go to mortuary school. I lowered the ejection port & put higher sights on it. I've been very satisfied with it. Thanks Rick.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That sounds like a great deal and nice pistol.

[@reddevilparatrooper]

I also own the Colt 1991A1. It was a pistol using the series 80 firing pin block on the slide and frame but used the last serial number from 1945 to continue on. It functioned well cycling but the front sight was not staked in well and the plunger tube for the safety fell off. I got those issues fixed using original M1911A1 parts and staked on good. I had no problems with it after. Then I just bought Springfield Armory which is made to the original specs of the M1911A1 and had no further problems.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Sounds like you have a great 1911

[@64samsky]

I have a 1991A1Colt, Series 80 and a Tisas Duty. I love them both!

[@KenS826]

I was just lucky enough to pick up a Series 70 Combat Commander, circa 1977. I am new to Colt .45s, so I really appreciate the thorough explanation.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Congrats! That is an excellent pistol.

[@pedroskivaldesoski389]

I have a Colt’s MK IV / series’ 70 government model .45 ACP original in mint conditions and I’m in love with the gun. Some gunsmith’s told me the gun could be worth a lot, they gave me a reason but I’m gonna be realistic I didn’t understand him. My grandfather that he passed in 2023 gifted me this 1911 and now I understand why the 1911 it’s the world champ. I have a strong sentimental value for this 1911, that’s the reason why I didn’t contact Colt so they could tell how much it’s worth. I’m not gonna sell it in my lifetime. The 1911 it’s the real definition of “where I put the eye I put the bullet” Also I want to thanks this content creator for always upload very informative videos.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I work hard to make video that I hope helps people.

[@ronultralimitedguns635]

Excellent video showing the history of the 1911! Gonna have to change some tags on my collection! Well done!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much!

[@1628gary]

Very good & informative vid; thanks! BTW, last year I found & purchased a NOS Colt G.C. - N.M. MK-IV, series 70, thinking it would have the collet bushing, but it did not. I was lucky to find a collet bushing & installed it, and I think I can detect a tighter fit, but it really hasn't helped my aim all that much (my eyes at 69 are no longer what they used do be). Still, I'm going to keep it in the gun anyway. 👍

[@thetexasgunvault]

Great to hear! And I am glad you enjoyed the video!

[@enriqueoliva6988]

You got to have the tapered barrel to match the collet bushings.I have 2 original mk IV series 70 tapered barrel and collet bushings.Two series 70 gold cup one had a match solid bushing fitted on the tapered barrel.

[@robbbunting7910]

Thank you for this video. I plan to add a 1911 (chambered in .45 ACP), this year. I wasn’t aware of the differences in them and what each model (ex. 70, 80, 90) designation meant. This video has helped me further narrow down my decisions for which 1911 model I will acquire.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am so glad it helped. That is why I made it.

[@johnregan2652]

Excellent content sir. Well explained, not over explained. Just the right amount of detail and nuance.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am glad it was helpful and that you enjoyed it.

[@Ray74020]

The now discontinued Colt Double Eagle from 1989-to 1996 has the rolled stamp “series 90”. But without a factory full length guide rod. That model has a series 80 type safety plunger with a draw bar double action trigger. It used 1911 magazines, many 1911 internal parts but included only a hammer drop lever for a safety. 1911 aficionados dismissed the Colt double Eagle as an oddity and Colt concluded it a commercial failure. So I’m still uncertain on Colt’s series 90 term. Maybe the meaning changed over time like in the series 70? Engineers and CEOs define while gunsmith’s, armor’s, and aficionado’s interpret best we can.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Great information. I never thought of the Double Eagles as 1911s. Maybe I should

[@enriqueoliva6988]

They are kinda ugly if you'll ask me.Maybe that's why it didn't catch on to the buying public.

[@imthatguy1878]

@@thetexasgunvault I roll the double eagles into the 1911ish category only because the frame is still kinda the same lol

[@aerotech1bob]

Nice video

[@ordinaryman1904]

What series were the Colt Officer’s ACP?

[@embreeja]

Thanks so very much. I have a Commander MK IV Series 80. It was one of my brother's carry pistols while he worked as a Special Agent for Ca DOJ (tho they went to .40's, he started with .45's, so it did not get much use). He retired and over the years we have traded many guns between us --- he got some of my antique lever actions, and I got all his .45's (among other things that we traded). I had no idea what I had, other than it looks nice and shoots great for me. Very good information --- thanks to you I now know a little more! BTW: I also ended up with his S&W 645. Very different gun. I am not sure which gun I like better, the Colt or the Smith... both are nice.

[@thetexasgunvault]

What a great story! Thank you for sharing and watching the video! Sounds like you have some great guns!

[@gregoryknox4444]

I love all of my 1911's. Old Army guy here ............ I still have mine.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is awesome! They are timeless

[@dalemilton5773]

ditto as previous writer. bought a series 70 in 82 when i was acdu. my extractor was not working well and i was getting many stove-pipes. buddy of mine had a matched pair of 1911s. he popped the extractor out of his, swapped out with mine. his shot fine and mine immediately was cured. so we left both that way. still have mine about 12-13000 shots through it later. i used to train hand gun to the army standards for kids heading over to the sand box. used to shoot against them and their m9s to put a little compete on it. they loved trying to beat the old geezer and his antique.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is a great story. Thank you for sharing.

[@kencarnley7101]

Thanks for the explanation. I just purchased a new Colt 1911. Marked Competition Model Series 70. A friend of mine was questioning the series 70 marking on it. This is my first Colt 1911.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I hope my video helped!

[@philipdennis-rh7uj]

Thank you for your simple, honest, and clear review. That you did not say " beavertail " was a breath of fresh air as well.Thank you

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful and I am glad you enjoyed it!

[@Mark-f3p6f]

Well done concise commentary .

[@thetexasgunvault]

That means a lot to me!

[@robertmayer7678]

I have one of the original Series 70s, I've put several thousand rounds through t over the years and have never had a problem.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Those old ones are great!

[@robertbullcarmichael9856]

I have an original 1911 pre A-1. Carried it on duty until 2001. Still take it out shooting and on occasion Still carry it. A very smooth shooting pistol. Thanks for the video. It helped explain the latter versions.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome and I am glad you enjoyed it!

[@markadams7597]

Great review, very cogent, informative, and helpful. Ty.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much!

[@SteveMartin-zc7qs]

So what I own is a Colt Series 70 Mark 4 that I acquired in the late 1970s. After I left Missouri to relocate to Florida I tracked Bill Wilson's shop who offered a custom package modification that included the milling of the slide to accept Bomar adjustable sights. It included a match grade hammer and trigger, a complete Armoloy, hard chrome finish as well. I use Wilson 8 round Model 47D magazines and this gun is very accurate.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That sounds like an amazing pistol.

[@deanpettikas4631]

I bought a full size series 80 about 40 years ago and it is the most accurate handgun I own. When I was reading about the series 80 collet breaking and causing jams I switched to the solid Series 70 style collet many years ago. I have not noticed any change my 1911's accuracy.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is awesome! I am glad it worked out well for you

[@Spartan77]

Very good video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I think I will stick with my series 70, I love that crisp, responsive trigger.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Good choice! I think they are the best.

[@vitodesimone8120]

Great video on variants of the Colt 45 Auto.Very informative.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much!

[@dieselmutt8865]

I personally like my Kimber's. A lot of their models release the firing pin block off of the grip safety mechanism so it doesn't interfere with the trigger pull. You kind of get the best of both of the 70's great trigger and the 80's firing pin block for safety.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I can totally see that and I like how they approached the issue that way.

[@lendlfernando2363]

Thanks for the video. Very informative.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome

[@stephanieroberts1394]

Learned alot. Thank you!

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome

[@johnscott5662]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome and I am glad it helped

[@rickd523]

Pleasure watching ! Very informative .

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad you enjoyed it! That means a lot to me.

[@jimp5777]

Good comparison, I have 70 series Combat Government Model and two Series 80 Gold Cup Trophy and National match that have the collet bushing. It was recommended never to remove the collet bushing from the barrel during disassembly because of possible damage to the fingers, remove the recoil spring plug move slide back approx. 1/2" unlock bushing from slide and remove it with barrel all in one unit. Never take bushing off the barrel.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Very interesting. I had never heard that before.

[@lens7859]

Great presentation! Thanks

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@scott.c9587]

Great video. I have a series 70 that was made in 1977 It has only been fired once. How I know is it was my dads and he just gave it to me last month.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is awesome. That is a pistol to treasure forever!

[@edwardchester8319]

Great video . I got a new 1911 70 series. I Colt collector told me they are hard to find. Shoots wonderfully. Fiber optic front sight. Good to know the distinction for a series 70.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am glad my video helped!

[@jeffkoch8678]

I had a series 70 Gold Cup with a collet bushing. One of the prongs broke while I was shooting and locked up he slide. I had a gunsmith install a standard bushing.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I hear that was a major problem with them.

[@jasongoodrich2526]

That was great video. Very informative. I wish more KZbinrs would use this style. Just the facts and very humble and a lot of visual examples. Thanks again

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome and I am glad you enjoyed it!

[@gustavofelix2261]

You have to make a video like this one on the colt 38 super. Thanks you for making this video.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome

[@harrycallahan9733]

11:00 The dual recoil springs in full size Colt models are not the same setup as the one in the Defender, as I got that kind of dual spring assembly in my Competition 9mm, O1072CCS. It's two springs of about same length, one of larger diameter than the other, that are compressed at the same time by the slide. This setup first started in the 10mm Delta Elite, I believe. The only difference is the guide rod is plastic in the Delta Elite, to act as a recoil buffer. The guide rod in my gun is steel, and look just like the old stubby one in the original 1911, only skinnier. Defender uses a dual spring setup that one spring's tail is connected to the other spring's head, so they are compressed in tandem. This is the same on Glock 26 and other more compact models :)

[@thetexasgunvault]

Great comment and thank you for adding so much information to the video.

[@zovaynezovanyari5442]

Great video. You answered a few questions i had. Thanks.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful!

[@motorosso3349]

Thanks for the rundown.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are welcome!

[@johnmeinhardt-jensen7713]

I had a series 70, it wasn’t the lightest or most compact or best carry pistol. But it was the most fun to shoot. I added a 6” Wilson competition barrel, tuned trigger pull to 2.5 pounds, added guide rail and adjustable sights. I shot 20k + round with her, still miss her

[@thetexasgunvault]

Sounds like it was a wonderful pistol.

[@pb68slab18]

The spring-finger collet bushing was such a great idea, Colt soon and quietly dropped it and no other 1911 manufacturer ever copied it! No 1911 aftermarket parts manufacturer ever made replacements or 'improvements' either.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are right. It was not copied. Interesting point.

[@grayrider1865]

The MK IV Series 70 was made from 1970-1983 & some of the MK IV Series 80 had the Collet bushing till they run out of them in around 1984.

[@furball9965]

i am getting my first 1911 and this has been a really big help thank you so much

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am so glad it helped!

[@furball9965]

Had to give an update picked up my 1911 yesterday and i could not be happier now time for me to get some more ammo LOL thanks again @@thetexasgunvault

Thanks for the excellent information.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome!

[@Trump145]

Thank you my friend you most definitely have clarified some things for me I totally understand now. Those are some beautiful handguns and the caliber .45 Auto is my favorite pistol in the world.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much for watching and your kind words.

[@mikeburrill779]

Definitely learned something today. 👍👍👍

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you! I hope I helped.

[@skipbickford3970]

Thank you very much I have relatively gotten started With 1911 I have About half a dozen now and oops looking at more I tend to the Dan Wesson and Wilson Combat models You have helped me very much thank you

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am so glad to hear it!

[@joshuateh8795]

Great video! As always I learned a ton watching this! Keep up the amazing work !

[@thetexasgunvault]

That means a lot to me!! Thank you.

[@stephenjoy5021]

I’ve got three Springfield 1911’s-the garrison,operator and ronin-love em all!…thinking about a Colt gold cup trophy soon!

[@thetexasgunvault]

You would love it.

[@wilderwyoming]

Thanks for the explanation!

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome

[@hogstooth5048]

Very informative and helpful. Thank you.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful!

[@roygaisser9230]

Good, informative video. Next time you update it, maybe include a section on the Swarz firing pin safety, used by Colt, briefly in the '30's and the more modern Swarz/Sirkis variant, currently used by Kimber. I think Smith uses the Swarz safety on their 1911's as well, not sure though. They work from the grip safety so they shouldn't affect trigger pull at all. When first designed, they were pretty expensive, but with today's CNC parts, not so bad at all.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the information.

[@moreme40]

Very informative

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you!

[@yokoshemp]

I have one of those Series 70 with the collet. Four "fingers" of what I assume is spring steel. The story that collets might break is often attributed to Jeff Cooper who was a popular gun writer... in another century. I don't know anyone that actually had a collet break. Mr Cooper was not unreasonable as a single piece collet will no doubt be stronger. Myself I like the collet and have no plans to ever change it. I do shoot my old Colt and it has/had many many issues. I bought it used and it would not hit the broadside of a barn from inside. Cleaned huge flake type burrs out of the barrel link yoke and installed a wc#4 barrel link with locker. Of course also installed a flat spring and full length guide rod just for giggles. Shame on Colt for drilling link pin holes with a chipped drill 40 some years ago. Now the old 70 is as accurate as my Kimber Gold Match target pistol. Fwiw I also replaced the extractor and firing pin stop with wc parts.

[@thetexasgunvault]

That you for sharing your thoughts and experiences! I really appreciate it

[@PuckerFactor10]

Well done sir! Simple and direct definitions to the differences.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much!

[@speed_freak13]

My grandad carried a Series 70 Government Model as his CC in 70's, all the way up until he died in 2018. He threw away the collete bushing because it was always a detriment in his opinion(one more thing that could break and cause a stoppage in his opinion), and he said the accuracy increase was hardly noticeable. He wanted a pistol that was no non-sense and modified it fit his needs. Lowered ejection port, beveled magazine well, ambi-safety, and throated chamber were modifications he had done to it for maximum reliability. He also modified the main spring with a plastic buffer because he increased the slide spring(or main spring) poundage from 16 lb to 22 lb because he ran handloads equivalent to .45 Super+P+ through it that would have otherwise beat the gun up. I don't know what the gun is worth now because it has been modified so extensively, but it was passed down to a member in my family.

[@thetexasgunvault]

It sounds like you have a very nice pistol there with a great history to be cherished by your family.

[@speed_freak13]

@@thetexasgunvault One day, I will inherit it, but probably not for a long time. Perhaps in the future I can trade other stuff for it XD. I remember his 265gr SWLFN handloads measured 1100 FPS at the muzzle from the 5" barrel. The pistol almost kicked like a +P 10mm load. It was really funny. The pistol never cracked or anything, goes to show the build quality on the Series 70 pistols. He was a firm believer in 2 shot max stop of the threat and refused to carry a 9mm. Back when he first started carrying, 9mm was anemic in terms of wounding and hollow point designs where not up to snuff, so he kept that opinion all the way until he passed. Truely a product of his time. That's just how it was in the 70's and 80's.

[@brianalbrecht4423]

dont feel that u r a nerd...that was the best video i have seen on the differances in the 1911 pistols avalable 2day...!..thank u very well done..!.great info on an historic pistol...love mine...thank u J.M.B...!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! Your kind words mean a lot to me!

[@andrewsteele7663]

OMG, 1911's everywhere. and Jason can actually say the word "nomenclature" Thanks Jason, brilliant video, I actually learned stuff as well. And if you let me have that series 90, I will after it until it grows up. Cheers

[@thetexasgunvault]

I thought about you when I was filming this video

[@andrewsteele7663]

@@thetexasgunvault Thanks Jason, you're a top bloke, Cheers

[@giuseppegumina5576]

I love U.S.A. I Love Colt ❤

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you!

[@MargaretCarolan-i8n]

Thank you, very concise and to the point. I'd qualify you as a Tech -nerd, very well informed. Great vid.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you! That means a lot to me.

[@frankcassetta5145]

Great video. Clear and concise.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful!

[@adammfanning3654]

Great informational video.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@tomsherwood4650]

I got a couple 80 series. The interference from the firing pin block varies from gun to gun I guess. It can be a detectable hitch in the trigger pull. But it makes the gun drop proof if you carry cocked. I once had a vintage prewar Colt from Argentina and it was made with an early version of the firing pin block. So the 80 concept is older than some people know.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Yes but that other one functioned differently.

[@yankrowan272]

Well done !!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you!

[@kevinbrown8506]

I loved this video and thank you for making this I’m looking forward to learning more about 1911s and other iconic firearms! You do a very professional job and it makes it easy to understand keep up the great content! 👍

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am honored that you enjoy it!

[@renetamba8062]

this video is very good and clear exolanstion about 1911's,,thank you and more power ,may thevgod always use people like you to share informations to other people

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am honored that you enjoyed it.

[@chrisfaist7855]

Great thorough explanation. I knew about the differences between series 70 and 80, but you filled in a lot of missing pieces. TY.

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am so glad you enjoyed it!

[@brucepennington5282]

Thanks for the explanation. Thumbs up!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Glad it was helpful!

[@raymondstrehl3679]

Not a nerd you're a collector of fine art There's a lot of us out here Thanks

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are welcome!

[@davelamboley1695]

John Moses Browning was an absolute genius. The 1911 and Ma Deuce, two of his creations which, after over 100 years, still haven't been improved on.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Yes he was!

[@richardlee831]

A good explanation of the variations; thanks.

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome.

[@charlesray2331]

I would like to throw in my 2 cents worth for a moment. I have 2 Colts (70), 2 Rugers (70), 2 Springfields (70), 2 Tisas (70) and a Remington (80). I personally think the trigger on the Remington is the smoothest and my favorite. It almost has a "squishy" feel to it and I love it. My second favorite trigger out of the group would be on one of my Springfields, which is an Emissary 4.25". I honestly don't see a lot of series 80s out and about

[@thetexasgunvault]

That is great to hear. As long as it is a 1911, you know it is a good pistol.

[@DT-lr2bi]

Great presentation and explanation. I have an Armscor 1911 A1 10MM. I have often wondered what the difference is.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you and I am glad you enjoyed it and found it useful

[@nicksilva4415]

I bought a 'Series 80' new in 1984 and it had the Series 70 type collet bushing. And yes, it broke (and jammed up the gun). I replaced it with a newer one years ago.

[@thetexasgunvault]

There was a "transitional" year for them.

[@RDPproject]

Thank you. This helps a LOT. Thanks for posting. Rob (London)

[@thetexasgunvault]

You are very welcome and I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@DanoSeer]

The series 80 model is great too and the triggers are awesome out of the box.

[@thetexasgunvault]

Yes they are!

[@vaughnbrooks21]

Thanks for the info, I also adore 1911 A1's

[@thetexasgunvault]

I am glad you enjoyed the video!

[@martinroggon3524]

Anyway ... thank you very much for letting me know about the specific difference of the various 1911 models. I do own a Springfield 1911-A1 clone that would fit to the model 70 specs, I guess. So, thumbs up for this video !!!

[@thetexasgunvault]

Thank you so much! That means a lot to me.