1911 Firing Pin

[rbernie]

I've heard that the firing pins are different between the Series 70 and Series 80 pistols. If true, how can I visually tell a Series 70 firing pin from a Series 80 without actually installing it?

 

[BigG]

The older firing pin is pretty much straight tapered with a larger bulge near the butt end. The Series 80 has an extra bulge or the big bulge separated into two parts to allow the firing pin safety to work.

 

[rbernie]

Thanks. I presume a Series 80 pin will work in a Series 70 pistol, but not vice-versa - correct?

 

[BigG]

You got me there. I would have to have both to compare. Mebbe 1911Tuner will see this and give you the lowdown. Good luck!

 

[Dave Sample]

You are correct. The '80 pin will work in any 1911 but the '70 is not compatable with the firing pin safety in the '80 series 1911 Colts. There are three diameters of pins, though , so make sure you have the correct caliber.

 

[1911Tuner]

70/80

Adding to BigG's description, the series 80 pin is easy to identify by a sort
of "hourglass" shaped groove just forward of the hammer end. The Series
80 firing pins will work in any pistol, and has the advantage of being
a bit lighter than the pre-Series 80 pin. Series 70, pre-Series 70
firing pins won't work in a Series 80 pistol unless the firing pin safety parts are removed....Shim required in the frame.

As Dave observed, the diameters vary for different calibers...and some
even cross the line. The .45 caliber Springfields use a .38 Super pin.
Something to do with reducing primer flow in the larger standard hole for the .45 caliber slides...maybe as a way of compensating for enlarged holes due to wear or drilled on the high end of tolerance.

Luck!

Tuner

 

[rbernie]

Excellent. As always, thanks to all for the help.