,,,,,

[Foriegn power]

Hhh

[ar15barrels]

70 series do not have the firing pin drop safety mechanism in them so the triggers are easier to tune into really nice triggers.
80 series and newer will have the firing pin safety parts and are therefore not as tunable.

[redcliff]

From a collector standpoint alone, buy the Series 70 repro if you can.

Although I'm not anti-series 80, (and in fact do own four) I do prefer and own many more of the pre 80 series ignition system for it's simplicity and easier to obtain crisp trigger pulls.

I hate that Colt is using the term "Series 70" to describe the non firing pin safety design as it was used by Colt from 1911 to 1983 with the exception of some late 1930's Swartz safety equipped models. Recently the pre-80 system has made a comeback on the Wiley Clapp models along with the Series 70 repro.

Defining features of original "Series 70" pistols were collet bushings and Series 70 rollmarks. Only the 5" models got those features. There were no Series 70 Commanders.

[MA2]

Field strip, 70 or 80 there is no difference.
Either model can be changed to the GI plug (under $20 parts) for a tool less field strip.

On the detail strip, series 70 is easier, since there are a few less parts.

Unless you specifically want a firing pin block, go with the series 70.

My vote goes to the series 70 any day.

[keenkeen]

Get the 70 series...it is worth the 10% PREMIUM.

[Horton Fenty]

I have no preference, either or, I don't think newly manufactured 1991 Colt's even have a series 80 roll mark anymore. Between the government sized 1991 and the 1970 I'd make my choice over the other small differences between the two. Like one has a long trigger flat ms housing, the other is short trigger arched housing. One has a 3-dot sights, the other does not, etc, etc. Either one can be taken apart without tools.

[hornswaggled]

Given a straight up choice, get the series 70 for purism reasons and that you will get less hassled in case you ever want to do a trigger job.

[huckberry668]

70... or remove the firing pin block parts of the series 80.

[jeffrice6]

70 & don't look back

[Bumslie]

I don't think the 70 Series is on the Safe handgun roster? I could be wrong, but you would have to have it SSE'D in.

I own two 80 series including a brand new 38 super I just had single shotted in.
I love the short trigger and the round mainspring housing of the 70 Series.
If given the opportunity, I would go with the 70. If you cannot, an 80 series would bring you the same enjoyment. You may be a bit more snobbish owning a 70, I know I would