Make: Colt

Model: Mark IV Series ‘70, Government Model 1911

Serial Number: 04956G70

Year of Manufacture: 1976

Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP

Action Type: Semi-Automatic Single Action Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine

Barrel Length: 5"

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a 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/ Grip: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have only a few scattered minor marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is some minor erosion in the bore, mostly toward the muzzle-end, and some stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. Some areas of the finish are a little cloudy. The action shows light operational wear. The markings are clear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with a single 7-round nickel Colt magazine.

Our Assessment: Colt's 1911 served the United States military through two World Wars and several other conflicts, is still in use by some units today, and has become popular with law enforcement, competitors, and recreational shooters across the nation. The design has seen some updates including a firing-pin block safety, higher profile sights, and more ergonomic grips, but the basic design and fantastic trigger remain the same after more than a century. Due to its popularity and long life, the 1911 has also been a popular choice for custom pistols, with a wide variety of sights, barrels, parts, and popular modifications.

This example is a Commercial Government Model made during a period when some of their finest work was produced. This is a Colt MK IV Series ’70 Government Model from 1976. The descendent of the original Model of 1911, it has updates of the 1911-A1 as well as a collet-style barrel bushing. The pistol looks to have seen some use, but still retains the great majority of its original nickel finish, a strong bore and good mechanics. Whether you're looking to add to a Colt collection or can just appreciate a beautiful, steel-frame, .45 pistol from the heyday of the 1911, this is a great addition to any safe in America. Please see our photos and good luck!