Colt Delta Elite Series 80 10mm 1911, Stainless, 5-inch, 1987 First-Generation Government Model
This first-generation Colt Delta Elite Government Model delivers the classic 1911 platform in 10mm with Series 80 configuration and all-stainless construction. Manufactured in 1987, it features the triangular Delta slide logo, "COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL 10mm" rollmarks, and the DE-prefix serial scheme associated with the Delta Elite line. Its 5-inch Government-length barrel, stainless slide and frame with brushed flats and matte rounds, and fixed three-dot sights define a distinctive late-1980s Colt stainless pistol.
Built on a full-size 1911 platform, this pistol uses a standard barrel bushing and plug and a single-stack 7+1 magazine system. It includes a lowered and flared ejection port, rear-only vertical slide serrations, and a Commander-style rowel hammer. The stainless finish offers durable utility with period-correct Colt styling cues.
Controls and safety features align with the 1911 format: short-recoil, single-action, hammer-fired operation with a thumb safety and grip safety. The Series 80 configuration adds its distinctive internal mechanism to the proven 1911 system.
Sighting is handled by fixed three-dot sights, with a dovetailed rear and a staked, ramped front. The pistol is fitted with Pachmayr Signature Model wrap-around rubber grips that complement the stainless frame for a secure, duty-ready hold.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm has visible signs of wear and handling. Scratches and blemishes appear across the surfaces. It carries the look of normal use.
What’s Included
- 1x 7-round single-stack steel magazine (as pictured)
This Delta Elite exemplifies Colt’s early execution of the 10mm 1911 concept. The first-generation configuration is identifiable by its triangular Delta slide emblem and "COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL 10mm" rollmarks, paired to the DE-prefix serial scheme specific to the Delta Elite line.
Stainless construction defines both the slide and frame, with brushed flats and matte rounds that reflect late-1980s Colt finishing. Functional enhancements include a lowered and flared ejection port for reliable case clearance and rear-only vertical serrations for confident manipulation.
The 5-inch Government-length stainless barrel uses a standard bushing and plug, maintaining the classic 1911 geometry. A Commander-style rowel hammer, fixed three-dot sights (dovetailed rear, staked and ramped front), and wrap-around Pachmayr Signature grips round out a practical, period-correct feature set.
Chambered in 10mm and built on a single-stack frame, capacity is 7+1. The Series 80, short-recoil, single-action, hammer-fired operating system and traditional 1911 thumb and grip safeties deliver the familiar handling that defines this model.