70 Series vs. 80 Series: Why the TWC Family Sticks with Tradition
When it comes to 1911-style handguns, one of the most debated topics among enthusiasts is the difference between 70 Series and 80 Series slides. The distinction may seem minor at first, but for serious shooters, it has a direct impact on performance, reliability, and trigger feel. At Jacob Grey, we build every handgun in the TWC Family on a 70 Series platform, and that choice is deliberate. Here’s why.
Understanding the Difference
The primary difference between a 70 Series and an 80 Series slide is the presence of an internal firing pin safety mechanism in the 80 Series, which affects the mechanics and overall shooting experience.
- 70 Series Slide:
- No internal firing pin safety.
- The firing pin is free-floating and relies only on spring tension to prevent accidental discharge.
- This results in a smoother, cleaner trigger pull without additional resistance or moving parts.
- It is considered the traditional, battle-proven design of the 1911 platform.
- 80 Series Slide:
- Includes an internal firing pin safety block, which prevents the firing pin from moving unless the trigger is pulled.
- This system adds extra drop safety, making it more resistant to accidental discharges if dropped.
- However, the added components introduce more moving parts in the trigger system, which can affect the feel and crispness of the pull.
Why Jacob Grey Prefers the 70 Series
At Jacob Grey, we believe in preserving the essence of the 1911 platform while enhancing performance. That’s why every handgun in the TWC Family, including the TWC 9, TWC Black, and TWC Hex, is built on a 70 Series foundation. Our reasoning is simple:
- Uncompromised Trigger Performance – The 70 Series design eliminates unnecessary components, resulting in a shorter, crisper, and more responsive trigger pull. Whether for competition, duty, or everyday carry, a clean trigger break can make all the difference.
- Fewer Moving Parts, More Reliability – More parts mean more potential points of failure. The 70 Series keeps things mechanically simple, making it easier to maintain, customize, and service over time.
- Staying True to the 1911 Heritage – The original design of the 1911 pistol is a 70 Series system. It’s been trusted by military, law enforcement, and elite shooters for over a century. We see no reason to deviate from a proven concept.
What About Drop Safety?
One of the key arguments for the 80 Series system is drop safety—the idea that an accidental drop could cause the firearm to discharge. While we respect the safety considerations, we achieve the same level of protection without adding unnecessary parts. Our TWC models use properly tensioned firing pin springs and lightweight titanium firing pins, ensuring drop safety without compromising performance.
Conclusion: Performance Over Complexity
At Jacob Grey, we’re dedicated to building precision-engineered firearms that balance performance, reliability, and craftsmanship. The 70 Series design is at the core of every TWC Family handgun because we believe in delivering the best shooting experience possible. When you pick up a Jacob Grey TWC, you’re holding a firearm built for shooters who demand excellence—without compromise.
If you’re looking for a modern take on the classic 1911 platform, built with double stack 9mm capacity, next-level engineering and attention to detail, check out the TWC Family today. Experience the difference of a true 70 Series handgun, the way it was meant to be.