Colt Pre-Series 80 Combat Commander Nickel .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, 1974
SOLD FOR: $1,075.00
LSB#: WY240723JH038
Make: Colt
Model: Combat Commander Model, Pre-Series ’80
Serial Number: 70SC34527
Year of Manufacture: 1974
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine
Barrel Length: 4 1/4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a short, serrated, ramped blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have some scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Satin Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8 or 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 87% of its metal finish. There is a little bit of finish loss at some edges and corners. There is some scattered minor discoloration. There are some light nicks, scuffs and scratches. There are a couple of more notable nicks at the bottom-left edge of the slide behind the slide-stop notch. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This slide had minor play to the frame. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 7-round magazine.
Our Assessment: Introduced by Colt as a lighter-weight version of the 1911, the smaller size of the Commander was popular and soon they were offered in a number of variations including different frame materials and calibers. While the original development centered on an aluminum-frame 9mm as a candidate for US Military post-war officer’s pistols, the steel frame Combat Commanders such as this one are what most people think of when they think of “The Commander”. This example has about 87% of its satin nickel finish remaining with a good bore and strong mechanics. Chambered for .45 ACP, the pistol has the same manual of arms and power as the Government Model in a slightly smaller package. This would make a fantastic defensive pistol, but it would also make a Colt collector very happy. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
