The Series 80 Colt Mk IV is a semi-automatic pistol that was introduced by Colt's Manufacturing Company in the early 1980s. This series was a significant update to the earlier Colt Mk III and Mk II pistols, which were themselves based on the classic Colt 1911 design. The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are known for their reliability, durability, and accuracy, making them popular among both civilian shooters and law enforcement agencies.
Design and Features
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are built on a forged steel frame, with a stainless steel or blued finish. They feature a single-action trigger, with a manual safety lever located on the left side of the frame. The pistols also have a Colt-designed firing pin block, which prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pressed. This feature is designed to prevent accidental discharges, and it is a key difference between the Series 80 pistols and earlier Colt 1911 designs.
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are chambered in a variety of calibers, including .45 ACP, .38 Super, and 9mm Parabellum. They have a magazine capacity of 7-8 rounds, depending on the caliber, and they feature a Colt-designed magazine well that allows for smooth and reliable magazine changes. The pistols also have a fixed or adjustable rear sight, and a dovetailed front sight that can be easily replaced or adjusted.
Technical Specifications
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols have the following technical specifications:
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP, .38 Super, 9mm Parabellum |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches (12.7 cm) |
| Overall Length | 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) |
| Height | 5.5 inches (14 cm) |
| Width | 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) |
| Weight | 39 ounces (1.1 kg) |
| Magazine Capacity | 7-8 rounds |
| Sights | Fixed or adjustable rear sight, dovetailed front sight |
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are known for their reliability and durability, with a reputation for withstanding heavy use and harsh environments. They are also highly accurate, with a smooth and consistent trigger pull that allows shooters to deliver precise shots at a variety of distances.
Performance and Handling
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are designed to be easy to handle and shoot, with a balanced design that allows for smooth and controlled recoil. They have a slick trigger pull, with a short reset and a clear break that allows shooters to deliver rapid and accurate follow-up shots. The pistols also have a comfortable grip, with a variety of grip sizes and textures available to fit different hand sizes and preferences.
In terms of performance, the Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are highly regarded for their accuracy and reliability. They are capable of delivering tight groups at a variety of distances, and they are highly resistant to malfunctions and other types of reliability issues. The pistols are also highly maintainable, with a simple and intuitive design that allows shooters to easily clean and maintain their pistols.
Comparative Analysis
The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are often compared to other semi-automatic pistols on the market, including the Smith & Wesson M&P and the Glock 19. While these pistols have their own strengths and weaknesses, the Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are highly regarded for their reliability and durability, as well as their accuracy and handling. They are also highly customizable, with a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available to upgrade and modify the pistols.
In terms of price, the Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are generally more expensive than some other semi-automatic pistols on the market. However, they are highly regarded for their quality and performance, and they are often considered to be a good investment for shooters who are looking for a reliable and accurate pistol that will last for many years.
What is the difference between the Series 80 Colt Mk IV and the earlier Colt 1911 designs?
+The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols have a number of key differences compared to the earlier Colt 1911 designs, including a Colt-designed firing pin block that prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pressed. They also have a number of other features, such as a manual safety lever and a Colt-designed magazine well, that are designed to improve their safety and reliability.
What calibers are available for the Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols?
+The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are available in a variety of calibers, including .45 ACP, .38 Super, and 9mm Parabellum.
How do the Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols compare to other semi-automatic pistols on the market?
+The Series 80 Colt Mk IV pistols are highly regarded for their reliability and durability, as well as their accuracy and handling. They are often compared to other semi-automatic pistols, such as the Smith & Wesson M&P and the Glock 19, but they have a number of key differences that set them apart from these other pistols.
