1911 Government Series 70 MKIV

[kkebs]

New to this forum, but appreciate some input. I have a 1911 .45 Government
Series 70 MK IV that I got in the early 70's. It has nickel finsh and factory
sights. I have fired about 200 rounds though it over the years. I now am in
the process of getting a florida ccw permit and was wondering if I was going
to change sights to night sights and get a trigger job, would it drop the resale
value (any thoughts on value) or would I be better off putting some Crimpson
Trace Laser grips on it or finally just keep it as is and go for a new Pt1911. I
would like to use for Concealed Carry.

 

[Autolycus]

That really depends on the person buying it. If the work is done by a good reputable gunsmith then you would probably be able to demand more.

I would suggest just buying a nice Kimber or Springfield Loaded with all the features you want. And you could send this Colt to a good smith like Ted Yost and wait a year or so. He has a huge backlog.

 

[Kitt]

kkebs Welcome to THR... You can get the nightsights that stake on and not have to alter the pistol...same thing with the trigger job...if you wanted to you could put the stock parts back in and it would be back to a stock series 70. I have a 70 series Commander with the nickel finish that I have worked on and its 100% reliable and shoots great.

 

[XavierBreath]

My opinion FWIW.......

First, assuming your pistol is an e-nickel version that was being made about that time, the value of the gun is likely around $600-700. If you are going to carry it, expect it to get wear, and lose value to any collector as a result of it's use.

A decent, reliable Colt 1911, especially a Series 70, will rarely be found for less than $500. Thus, we are really talking about the possible loss of $100-$200 in value.

Nicely installed night sights enhance the usability of any carry gun. A trigger job does the same. Do not, however expect them to add to the market value of your gun.

Guns are meant to be used. Handguns are meant to be carried and used. Colts, overall, hold value well. If the sights are nicely installed without buggering everything up, I do not think they will lower the pistol's value in the marketplace. If anything, since it will be worn from carry, and the overall value will be lowered from it's use as intended, the night sights may help it keep value.

Make sure your gunsmith knows this is to be a carry gun before he does the trigger job. 4 pounds or more is usually the standard for a carry gun.