Series 70 vs Series 80 is a bit of a holy war within the 1911 community. Many purists believe that Series 70 pistols are a superior version of the gun (and they can make a good case for it.) If you prefer Series 70 guns, I have good news: Colt’s Manufacturing Co is now making the Series 70 Competition Pistol.

Until now, the Competition Pistol line has been limited to Series 80 builds. However, going forward the company will also offer Series 70 versions in .45 ACP, 9mm and .38 Super. Both blued and stainless steel models will be represented in the Series 70 line.

All of the other features will be identical between the Series 70 and 80 guns. For example, both guns will have 5″ National Match barrel, custom blue G10 grips with the company logo, front fiber optic sights and a rear adjustable Novak sight. Also, these guns use the company’s Dual Spring Recoil System.

Prices will also stay the same. This means no one will have to pay a premium for the gun they prefer. According to a Colt press release, the standard Competition Pistol with blued finish will run you $899 for either 9mm or .45 ACP, while the .38 Super runs a bit more: $949. However, the company’s website shows the blued Competition Pistol in .38 Super with a MSRP of $999. The Stainless Steel Competition models are $100 more for each model.