Colt .380 parts compatibility.

Jorge

July 03, 2011 08:39

This is my Colt Government Mk IV Series 80 caliber .380 ACP. I have the original cardboard box, papers, and grips. Found her 98% condition, and paid $450.

Beauty, isn't she?

I dislike the teeny thumb safety, and the plastic trigger and guide rod. I found aftermarket replacements - or so I think - at the auction side, and some at Cylinder and Slide, listed under "Colt 380 series" - that is - Pony, Pocket Lite, and Government.

Are these parts compatible?

Thanks in advance.


Edit: it has no grip safety. Is it safe to carry cocked?

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  rufe-snow

  July 03, 2011 09:24

  Contact customer service at C & S, either by phone or e-mail. Give them a specific description of your pistol, and SN range. Their a reputable outfit that has been in business for years, not likely to BS you.
  
  You also might check Brownells, preferably their catalog as it seems to go into greater detail then their on-line site. As I recall they carried C & S stuff last time I looked at one of their catalogs. If it isn't called out specifically, call their 800 number and ask one of their customer service techs.
  
  EDIT #1, Before it was stolen I use to carry one of the small alloy frame versions, as a pocket gun in a holster for my CCW. No way in the world would I ever carry it C & L. That's just asking for trouble, unless you carry it in a special custom holster that covers the trigger guard and blocks the hammer from hitting the firing pin.

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  Wolf.

  July 03, 2011 16:54

  Last time I looked, Brownells had a stainless steel guide rod and might have a steel trigger, too. I seriously do not think you need to change them out, however. The gun will function nicely with the factory plastic parts. If you do change them out, make sure you keep ALL the old parts in the box.
  
  I think you got a good deal on the pistol. From what you said, I do not think you are intending to sell the gun. However, I think it is easily worth $600 or more in that condition (brushed stainless?) and what looks like real stag grip panels, regardless of what you see the recent, comparable, completed sale-auctions are on the GunBroker auction side. If you have the original Colt grip panels, that will add to the gun's value as well. Ask the seller if you don't have them.
  
  You can buy new Colt-branded magazines for your Colt Government Model .380 from Midway USA in various finishes, blue, stainless or nickel..

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  Hawk Carse

  July 03, 2011 18:21

  All the non-length related parts should be common to Gov't .380 and Mustang. Pony is a DAO and not the same in detail.
  
  I will carry mine cocked and locked IN A HOLSTER. I don't consider it a pocket gun, but the Star type safety is probably more secure than a real Colt.

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