[andyb]

do I check to learn the differences of a 70 and 80... and will I be able to recognize them without tearing down?

Thanks.
AndyB

 

[jrchilds]

My 1991 says SERIES 80 on the slide right under the ejection port in BIG LETTERS.
jack

 

[dsk]

Series 80 guns all have the firing pin safety, which can be seen if you retract the slide and peer under it and see the plunger there. Series 70 guns have no FP safety, but they did have a unique spring-steel barrel bushing that gripped the barrel like the fingers on a collet. Only Gov't/Gold Cup models were ever designated Series 70. The Commanders were simply pre-Series 80 until the FP safety was introduced. Guns made before the collet barrel bushing was introduced are known as pre-Series 70 guns and are the closest to mil-spec. All clone 1911s except for Para Ordinance are essentially pre-70 in design since they have neither the FP safety nor the collet bushing.

 

[andyb]

Roger your replies, and many thanks. With all the hardware lying in gun cases it's hard (for me) to ID anything - have to be selective on looking closely. now I know what to look for. Thank again jrchilds and dsk.