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How Do I Use a Series 70 Slide on a Series 80?

Collectors of Colt series 70 pistols, manufactured from 1970 to 1983, can convert their weapons to series 80 pistols through the use of many upgrades. However, a collector who owns a series 80 pistol may use series 70 parts to customize his weapon. A gun collector who puts a series 70 slide on a series 80 pistol must be a gunsmith, as gunsmith fitting is required. Gunsmiths must disassemble, or tear down, their pistols before they can put series 70 parts on series 80 weapons.

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the recoil spring from the series 80 pistol. Point the pistol downward, then press the magazine release button on the grip to release the magazine. Pull back on the slide to ensure the gun is not loaded, then press the recoil spring guide under the barrel. Rotate the bushings under the recoil spring guide to the right, to release the recoil spring.
- 2
  Separate the series 80 slide from the series 80 weapon. Push the slide assembly forward, to align the tab on the back of the slide stop with the notch in the slide, then push the slide to the right to remove it from the weapon.
- 3
  Insert the frame of the series 80 pistol into a vise with padded jaws. Place the series 70 slide onto the rear of the series 80 frame and gently tap, or peen, it in place with a 2-ounce hammer; the slide should fit tightly, but it should move freely throughout its travel on the frame. Continue to tap the slide in place until it snaps into the groove on the frame
- 4
  Insert the recoil spring and magazine to reassemble the pistol.

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