National Match vs Gold Cup

[Jim17]

What is the difference between a National Match and a Gold Cup? Thanks.

[dakota1911]

According to Clawson's book Colt introduced the Gold Cup National Match in 1957, but the Gold Cup name was not stamped on the slide till 1970

[tenx]

The original National Match guns were USGI guns accurized by the military or military contractors for target shooting.

I assume you are asking about commercial National Match guns.
From 1957 to about 1970 Colt produced the first Gold Cup National Match.
The box said Gold Cup National Match and almost everyone calls those guns Gold Cup National Match, but the slide only says National Match. About 1970 Colt produced the series 70 Gold Cup National Match. The slide is stamped that as well. Then there was the series 80 Gold Cup National Match beginning about 1982 and then the Gold Cup Trophy. The Gold Cup Trophy does not say national match. There were also other Gold Cups: Delta Elite, Commander, etc.

To me the pre series 70 GCNM guns were made to a higher quality than later GCNM guns. Look at other threads and stickies for the differences between the series 70 guns (collet barrel bushing) and series 80 and later guns (firing pin safety/block).

Here is a link that provides more detailed history.
www.sightm1911.com/lib/history/nm.htm

[Joni Lynn]

The earlier GCNM guns always seem to be more expertly fit and they shoot quite well.

[Hunter]

I have a few Series 80 GCNMs that are well fit and shoot great.
To be honest my new Gold Cup Trophy will run with the best of them.
http://www.sightm1911.com/lib/history/nm.htm

[dakota1911]

I keep saying the Gold Cup Trophy is one of the best buys in 1911 land for a new gun. Saw a SS one today for $930 at a local gunstore. Of course it was on the bottom shelf but the fit and finish was great. Thinking about it.