M1911 Military Version "Replica"

[2Barrels]

Hi,
I am a recreational shooter with a few auto-pistols including a couple M1911s. One item in my collection (collection used loosely, I am not a Collector - I don't have many and my son's and I love to shoot them all!) is the Beretta M9, which I own because I've always admired the 92 series, and because it's the sidearm of my nation's military for which I have great respect. One of my 1911's is a Springfield "90's Edition" made in 1992, the precursor to the one now called the "Mil Spec." I always regarded it as the sister to my M9 with the pair of them representing the modern sidearms of the US Military. Obviously the Springfield is stretching it; only the "specs" are representative. So here's my question:

If I desired to replace the Springfield with a Colt that more accurately replicates the government's version of the military-issue 1911, which current model, if any, would that be? Perhaps the one they call the "Series 70?" What are the differences between that model and a true mil-issue? I probably cannot afford to acquire an original military issued piece in the condition I'd like so a non-mil issued version is OK. Nor does it have to be one of the WWI or WWII limited edition period-replicas, although if I could find one/and afford it, that would be great. But I doubt I could anyway.

As always, thanks for you advice.

[clughog]

2Barrels, from what you've said, it's evident that you've done some research on the subject. In my opinion, of all the modern day Colt pistols available (excluding the WWI & WWII Reproductions), the Series 70 Reproduction comes the closest to what you've described. That said, there is not a tremendously huge difference between the price of a WWI Replica and a Series 70 Reproduction, so you might consider pursuing that option while they're still available (and affordable!). Of course, I would opt for keeping the Springfield as well if possible.

[2Barrels]

...That said, there is not a tremendously huge difference between the price of a WWI Replica and a Series 70 Reproduction, so you might consider pursuing that option while they're still available (and affordable!). Of course, I would opt for keeping the Springfield as well if possible.
Thank you. Two questions:

1) Can the WWx replicas still be found? I didn't seem to have much luck uncovering one using a web search.

2) Other than "never sell a gun," a rule which I've already broken a couple of times :o , what's your rationale for hanging onto the SA? FWIW, it has no sentimental value to me.

[Hawkmoon]

Excluding the WW1 and WW2 re-issues, the current Series 70 is the closest you'll come to a military M1911A1. As for the re-issues, the WW2 version was sold out a couple of years ago, so you'll have to search the used gun markets to find one. The WW1 re-issue is technically still in production. I don't know the exact numbers but it's my belief that Colt is into the last thousand of the 4,000 they plan to build. How many of those remaining guns have already been spoken for, I have no idea.

[2Barrels]

Excluding the WW1 and WW2 re-issues, the current Series 70 is the closest you'll come to a military M1911A1. ...
Thank you. Besides the "US Gov't Property" markings, what other differences are there? Perhaps no lanyard ring?

[OD*]

2Barrels,

I agree with Creighton & Hawk for the most part.
Now, if you're looking for a 1911 platform that is currently used by some of the "Special Forces" family, look at the Springfield Professional (if they still offer it), used by Marine MEU(SOC) or the Kimber Warrior used by DET-1.

[Hawkmoon]

Thank you. Besides the "US Gov't Property" markings, what other differences are there? Perhaps no lanyard ring?
No lanyard loop -- but you can buy aftermarket mainspring housings with the loop if you want that level of authenticity. And the WW2 M1911A1 had plastic grip panels without the double diamond. The new Series 70 pistols come with wood, double diamond grips. Again, that can be changed.

Lastly, the current Series 70 hammer is flat -- the spur portion isn't wider than the pin portion that fits into the frame. Later M1911A1s also had that configuration, I believe, but I don't know when the change was made from a wide-spur hammer (of which there were a couple of profile, if I'm not mistaken).

[drshame]

We generally like to describe the WW-1 1911 as a Re-Issue since it's basically the same gun....modern day technology accepted....made by the same manufacturer to almost the exact same specs, stamped with the same markings as the original version.
Generally accepted here as a near duplicate of the 1918 WW-1 Colts with their outstanding Carbonia Finishes.

Debated hotly as "shooters" or "collectors"..but seems to balance well on both sides of the fence.

General belief too that IF Colts' keeps to it's original intent and makes it a limited run, collector value will increase.

Balance that with recent "Teases" they may extend the run and it tilts the balance more in favor of "shooter" than "investment.

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d13/drshame/OlderColt.jpg

Oh Yeah..need I remind you of how they look?

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d13/drshame/Colt1911Repro.jpg

Like dating twins..which one?
The Model 70 or the WW-1 ReIssue

So many choices..so little range time!

[daveohno]

If you hunt a little, you can get the WW1 Repro for a bit under $1000, the WW2 Repro will be harder to find and cost more, since the run is finished.

I have the WW1 Repro and it is a very good looking pistol, the finish is gorgeous. It shoots very well, the only thing I don't like about it is the little military sights. They are quite small for my old eyes, that said, once you acquire the target, it's dead on.

[clughog]

Thank you. Two questions:

1) Can the WWx replicas still be found? I didn't seem to have much luck uncovering one using a web search.

2) Other than "never sell a gun," a rule which I've already broken a couple of times :o , what's your rationale for hanging onto the SA? FWIW, it has no sentimental value to me.

The WWI Replicas are still around--I saw several at the last local gun show for under $1,000 and Hawkmoon had a good lead on one at his local shooting range. As for the Springfield, if it has no sentimental value, and you want a genuine Colt, then (reluctantly) I guess I could let it go--I just struggle every time I part with one! As Hawkmoon pointed out, there are abundant options if you want to make the Series 70 look more original, or if you just want to customize it to make it whay YOU want it to look like.

[2Barrels]

THANKS for all the advice.

I believe that the Series 70 is best for me for now. After all, if I get a WWI, I'll want a WWII, then something original from the Korean era, then Viet Nam, etc. :D

Seriously, the Series 70 is exactly what I need. My M9 is not a period re-issue rather it merely represents the weapon the way it looks today. The Series 70 reflects the M1911 the way it looked towards the end of its reign and will adequately take its place in my pair of firearms which together represent our US Military's modern era sidearms. My friends, family and future grandchildren will get the picture when I show them off!

Now having said that the two may not be good enough for me in the long term. ;) I can see myself beginning a collection of originals, re-issues, etc. and while I know that they're not getting any cheaper, for now it will have to wait.

Last question: do you know anywhere that beats Bud's price of $799 and change (plus roughly $36 shipping and insurance) for a Series 70?

[clughog]

Last question: do you know anywhere that beats Bud's price of $799 and change (plus roughly $36 shipping and insurance) for a Series 70?2Barrels, that price is real close to current dealer cost, so it sounds like a deal to me. Mine was $739 a year ago.

[HercPilot]

That price is about $150 under the local price +taxes making it a great value in my opinion.

HercPilot

[Chesster]

Last year, I found a Remington Rand complete and accurate for 750. It looked about 98%. The catch, It had been refinished. A nice job of parkerizing but still, refinished. Original shooters from WWII can be found with a little patience and cash in hand when they come along. This one turned out to be a great shooter.

[TattooPaul]

Hi 2Barrels.
Nice choice. I'd like to get a 70 Series Repro as well. I have the WWI Repro and a 1943 WWII 'A1 as well. It is an affliction that you will inevitably succumb to. Coltitis will add the models you listed above in less time than you expect! Good luck with that 70 Series - we'll expect pictures! I find them very attractive and for the money you can't beat 'em.

[elijdub]

The WWI Replicas are still around--I saw several at the last local gun show for under $1,000 and Hawkmoon had a good lead on one at his local shooting range.

Could you point me in the direction of a WWI for under $1000 please?
I've been trying to "jump" on the available one's, for two days now, on the two big online sites (with no success. i keep offering, and they keep selling before i can get "my arms around it".). Your input would be much appreciated.
Eli

[daveohno]

http://www.ajcsportshop.com/wwone1911.html

[elijdub]

You know what, i checked with them after reading your original post, although it wasn't til days later. By then they had sold 'em all. LUCKY FOR ME...i found one for $980 on gunsamerica.com today!!! Needless to say i am a happy man! Not only was it cheaper than i'd expected, but the great little shop in R.I. payed the OVERNIGHT shipping and the insurance, and were friendly taboot!!! Sometimes things go your way, huh?!
Thanks for the help either way,
Eli

[clughog]

LUCKY FOR ME...i found one for $980 on gunsamerica.com today!!! Needless to say i am a happy man! Not only was it cheaper than i'd expected, but the great little shop in R.I. payed the OVERNIGHT shipping and the insurance, and were friendly taboot!!! Sometimes things go your way, huh?!
Thanks for the help either way,
EliThat's great! I was going to offer to check out the local gunshow this weekend to see what was still out there...plus a couple of other sources I have. Let us hear when you get it...and POST PICTURES!

[OD*]

Congratulations, Eli. http://www.combatcarry.com/vbulletin/images/smilies/vol_1/35.gif

[elijdub]

That's great! I was going to offer to check out the local gunshow this weekend to see what was still out there...plus a couple of other sources I have. Let us hear when you get it...and POST PICTURES!

Will do...for sure! I am looking forward to it! (and it get to post pics in two different forums now...i'm a Kimber regular) My understanding is that i'll have it by Friday (goin' out overnight tomorrow).
I appreciate your willingness to look around. It doesn't seem like there are too many left. Is it just me or are people starting to get a little edgy about this tail end of the run ==>> prices are going up...?
Now i'll just have to work REAL hard to not shoot the thing (will this fan some flames?).
Eli

[elijdub]

Thanks OD....with thanks to you for straightening me out on the difference between the series. I've literally gone from knowing very little, to a fairly decent understanding of all Colt .45's, all models, in a matter of days, with enough of a grip to feel confident making a significant purchase. This forum is an incredible resource!
Eli

[OD*]

Thank you sir.

We have an incredible knowledge base among our membership and it is the members that makes M1911.ORG.