Versions of the Colt Defender

[HomeDefense]

Were there historically different versions, variations, or series of the Colt Defender?

Just picked up one in a trade, came with 5 mags, some extra thin grips, hogue, and then standard 1911 rosewood grips. Pretty excited about it as it will be my new carry piece, though it seems a little older than some of the "newer?" photos I'm seeing out there. Could just be oil, dirt, or grease though.

I've also seen some keywords here and there differentiating between the "old version" or when "they first came out" vs "now" or "the newer ones." What's the distinction and how can I tell which one I have?

 

[MICHAEL T]

That a older one new ones have dovetail front sight. That doesn't apear to be factory front sight either.
Mine is older one with staked front sight It has never gave first bit of trouble. I tossed those ugly rubber grips day I bought . Give good cleaning shoot it and when your satisfied Then carry.

Call Colt 800 number coustomer service. Tell then you have a Defender and ask for year made. The will then need serial number . Then you will know

 

[HomeDefense]

So what exactly is the difference between the old and new besides the sights? The sights that are on here btw are trijicon night sights I think, they're not factory.

 

[HomeDefense]

2001 Colt Defender

Called up Colt and they said this one was manufactured in 2001 and that this year (2011) they just came out with one. To get a product comparison sheet, you have to call in and ask for the Archives Dept. Might do that later.

So anyone know what the main differences are between the 2001 manufactured ("older") Defender and the one released this year?

 

[HomeDefense]

2001 Colt Defender ("Older") vs. 2011 Colt Defender ("Newer")

Alright, so here's the scoop from the Colt:

2001 Defender did not have upgraded sights like the current one has (low profile novak white dot sights)

Suggested retail for the 2001 Defender was $773 vs. the 2011 Defender that is $995. Otherwise they are pretty much the same model.

.45 acp
Brushed stainless steel slide
Alloy anodized frame
Wraparound rubber grips
3” barrel
7 + 1 mag capacity
Lightweight frame​

My conclusion is that they're identical and use materials available to them in both periods of time. To me at least, they're the same...this one is just "broken in" and greased so I skip the break in period and go right to carry. Either way, I'm content.

Now to find me some good CCW holsters...