Description
The Colt 1911 Competition Series 70 .45 ACP 5″ Stainless is a factory-built target pistol that combines a National Match barrel with a Series 70 trigger system. It is designed for shooters who want a reliable, accurate 1911 right out of the box for competition or serious range practice.
| Manufacturer | Colt’s Manufacturing Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1911 Competition Series 70 |
| Material | Stainless steel slide and frame, G10 grips |
| Compatibility | Standard 1911 .45 ACP magazines and holsters (5″ barrel) |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | 40 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- National Match Barrel – A 5-inch stainless match barrel is fitted to the slide for consistent lock-up, which helps tighten shot groups at 25 yards.
- Novak Adjustable Fiber-Optic Sights – The front fiber-optic dot and fully adjustable rear let you dial in windage and elevation quickly, even in changing light.
- Series 70 Firing System – No firing-pin block means a lighter, crisper trigger pull right from the factory — a real advantage for precision shooting.
- Textured G10 Grips – The slim, aggressive grip panels keep your hand locked in place during recoil, so follow-up shots stay on target.
- Stainless Steel Construction – The satin stainless finish resists rust and powder residue, making clean-up after a long range session much easier.
Who It’s For
This Colt is built for the shooter who wants to step into competition or serious target practice without spending months customizing a gun. It is also a great choice for a family who wants one handgun that can serve for range training and local matches.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Factory match-grade accuracy at a price well below most custom builds.
- Pro: Adjustable fiber-optic sights are easy to use for new shooters and experienced competitors alike.
- Pro: Series 70 trigger gives a clean break that helps you learn proper trigger control.
- Con: The stainless finish shows holster wear faster than a blued or coated gun, so it may look used sooner if carried frequently.
Comparison
| Feature | Colt 1911 Competition Series 70 | Zev Technologies OZ9C | Geissele Automatics Super 1911 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | .45 ACP |
| Barrel Length | 5″ | 4.5″ | 5″ |
| Trigger System | Series 70 (no firing pin block) | Striker-fired | Series 70 style |
| Sights | Novak adjustable fiber-optic | Suppressor-height steel | Fixed Novak |
| Price Range | $1,032 | $1,700+ | $2,100+ |
| Best For | Competition & target shooting | Competition & carry | Custom build base |
FAQ
Is the Colt 1911 Competition Series 70 .45 ACP 5″ stainless good for a beginner?
Yes. The adjustable sights and crisp trigger help a beginner learn fundamentals, but the .45 ACP recoil may feel sharp. A family coach can start a new shooter with light target loads to build confidence.
What magazines work with this Colt?
Any standard 1911 .45 ACP magazine with 7 or 8 rounds will fit. Colt factory magazines are recommended for best reliability.
Does this pistol come with a case or lock?
Yes, it ships in a hard plastic case with a cable lock, two magazines, and a owner’s manual — everything you need for safe storage and transport.
Can I use this gun for concealed carry?
It is a full-size 5″ 1911 weighing 40 oz, so it is heavy for daily concealed carry. It is better suited for range use, competition, or open carry at matches.
Why Shooters Trust This Colt
According to Colt’s specifications, the National Match barrel is hand-fitted to the slide for consistent accuracy. Over 40% of 1911 shooters in competitive action shooting leagues use a Colt or Colt-based platform, according to industry surveys from the USPSA. This model gives you that proven platform without the wait or cost of a custom build.
✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✔ Ships 1-2 business days
✔ 30-day returns
✔ Secure checkout
Browse more in 1911 Pistols or Competition Handguns or .45 ACP Handguns.
Last updated: April 2026
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