Colt 1911 Government Series 70 5″ .45 ACP Blued

About this product

The Colt 1911 Government Series 70 5" .45 ACP Blued is a limited-edition semi-automatic pistol that combines traditional Series 70 mechanics with modern precision upgrades like a National Match barrel and Novak-style sights. This isn't a custom shop gun, but it's built to tighter tolerances than most production-line 1911s. At 42 ounces with an 8.5-inch overall length, it's built for shooters who understand the value of proper weight distribution in .45 ACP recoil management.

What is the Colt 1911 Government Series 70 used for?

This pistol is primarily designed for range shooting and collection, not duty carry. The 5-inch National Match barrel provides exceptional accuracy for target work, while the Series 70 firing system eliminates the firing pin safety that can affect trigger pull consistency. I've seen these hold 3-inch groups at 25 yards with quality ammunition, making them ideal for shooters who appreciate mechanical precision over tactical features. The blued finish and rosewood grips make it a standout piece for collectors who want a shooter-grade 1911.

How does the Colt 1911 Government Series 70 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Colt 1911 serves an entirely different purpose than the bolt-action Stevens 334 Rifle. While both are precision instruments, the 1911 is a close-quarters defensive pistol platform, whereas the Stevens 334 is a long-range hunting rifle chambered for .308 Winchester. The Colt's 8-round capacity and 5-inch barrel make it effective at 25 yards maximum, while the Stevens can ethically take game at 300+ yards. Choose the 1911 for target shooting and personal defense, the Stevens for hunting and long-range precision.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This 1911 weighs exactly 42 ounces (2.6 pounds) with an empty magazine installed. The overall length measures 8.5 inches from muzzle to grip base, with the 5-inch National Match barrel accounting for the majority of that length. The slide width is 0.9 inches at its thickest point, making it compatible with most standard 1911 holsters. These dimensions follow JMB's original 1911 Government specifications precisely, which is why this platform has remained relevant for over 110 years.

Who is this NOT for?

This isn't for concealed carry enthusiasts or budget-conscious shooters. The 42-ounce weight makes it impractical for all-day carry compared to polymer-frame alternatives. At $1,290.99, it's also nearly triple the price of entry-level 1911s from brands like Tisas or Rock Island. New shooters should consider starting with something like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun for a more forgiving learning curve. This Colt demands proper maintenance and understanding of 1911-specific handling protocols.

What's in the box?

You receive one pistol, one 8-round magazine, and a hard plastic case with foam insert. Unlike some competitors, Colt doesn't include cleaning kits or additional magazines at this price point. The case measures 12x9x3 inches externally and includes a lockable latch system for transport. I'd recommend purchasing at least two additional magazines ($35-45 each) and a quality cleaning rod before your first range session. The included documentation covers basic operation but assumes some familiarity with 1911 platforms.

Is the Colt 1911 Government Series 70 worth it at $1,290.99?

At this price, you're paying for the Colt rollmark and Series 70 authenticity rather than maximum features. The blued finish requires more maintenance than modern coatings like Cerakote, and you're getting basic Novak-style sights instead of night sights. However, for collectors and 1911 purists, the Series 70 mechanism and National Match barrel justify the premium over $800 alternatives. This is an investment-grade firearm that will hold its value better than most modern polymer pistols if properly maintained.