1911 70 Vs 80 Comparison

The debate between the 1911 70 series and 80 series has been ongoing among firearm enthusiasts for years. Both series have their own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the details of each series, comparing and contrasting their features, to help you make an informed decision.

The 1911 pistol, designed by John Browning, has been a popular choice among shooters for over a century. Its reliability, accuracy, and durability have made it a favorite among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters. Over the years, the design has undergone several modifications, resulting in the 70 series and 80 series. While both series share the same basic design, there are significant differences between them.

The 70 series, introduced in the 1970s, was a response to the growing demand for a more durable and reliable 1911 pistol. The series featured a number of improvements, including a stronger frame, a more robust firing pin, and a improved safety mechanism. The 70 series also introduced a new type of barrel bushing, which helped to improve the pistol's accuracy.

On the other hand, the 80 series, introduced in the 1980s, was designed to address some of the safety concerns associated with the 70 series. The 80 series featured a number of safety improvements, including a firing pin block and a trigger lever safety. The series also introduced a new type of hammer, which helped to reduce the risk of accidental discharge.

Design and Features

One of the main differences between the 70 series and 80 series is the design of the firing pin. The 70 series features a traditional firing pin, which is prone to accidental discharge if the pistol is dropped. The 80 series, on the other hand, features a firing pin block, which helps to prevent accidental discharge. The firing pin block is a mechanical device that prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pressed.

Another significant difference between the two series is the trigger mechanism. The 70 series features a traditional trigger mechanism, which is prone to wear and tear over time. The 80 series, on the other hand, features a more robust trigger mechanism, which is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use.

Safety Features

The 80 series is generally considered to be safer than the 70 series, thanks to its firing pin block and trigger lever safety. The firing pin block helps to prevent accidental discharge, while the trigger lever safety helps to prevent the pistol from firing unless the trigger is fully pressed.

The 70 series, on the other hand, relies on a traditional safety mechanism, which can be prone to failure if the pistol is not properly maintained. However, the 70 series is still a reliable and safe pistol, as long as it is properly maintained and handled.

Performance

In terms of performance, both the 70 series and 80 series are capable of delivering excellent results. The 70 series is known for its accuracy and reliability, making it a popular choice among competitive shooters. The 80 series, on the other hand, is known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among law enforcement and military personnel.

The 70 series is generally considered to be more accurate than the 80 series, thanks to its traditional barrel bushing and firing pin design. However, the 80 series is still a highly accurate pistol, and its firing pin block and trigger lever safety make it a safer choice for many shooters.

Maintenance and Repair

In terms of maintenance and repair, both the 70 series and 80 series are relatively easy to work on. The 70 series is known for its simplicity and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice among shooters who like to tinker with their pistols. The 80 series, on the other hand, is more complex and may require more specialized tools and expertise to repair.

However, the 80 series is still a relatively easy pistol to maintain and repair, and its firing pin block and trigger lever safety make it a more reliable choice for many shooters.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 1911 70 series and 80 series are both excellent pistols, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages. The 70 series is known for its accuracy and reliability, while the 80 series is known for its durability and safety features.

Ultimately, the choice between the 70 series and 80 series will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a pistol that is highly accurate and reliable, the 70 series may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a pistol that is safer and more durable, the 80 series may be the better choice.

Gallery of 1911 Pistols

1911 Pistol Image Gallery

What is the main difference between the 1911 70 series and 80 series?

The main difference between the 1911 70 series and 80 series is the design of the firing pin and the safety features. The 80 series features a firing pin block and a trigger lever safety, while the 70 series relies on a traditional safety mechanism.

Which series is more accurate, the 70 series or the 80 series?

Which series is more durable, the 70 series or the 80 series?

The 80 series is generally considered to be more durable than the 70 series, thanks to its firing pin block and trigger lever safety. The 80 series is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use, making it a popular choice among law enforcement and military personnel.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive comparison of the 1911 70 series and 80 series. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or just starting out, it is essential to understand the differences between these two series to make an informed decision. If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to reach out. Share this article with your friends and family to help them make an informed decision when choosing a 1911 pistol.