I bought this Series '70 Government Model 45 brand new in February of 1973. It cost $135. I was making $1.65 an hour at the time so that was a lot of money for me. Woolworths had guns and ammo in the basement. A big glass fishbowl was on the counter next to the register filled with loose 45 ACP ammo. All military surplus from various nations loaded with a 230 FMJ in Berdan primed cases. Priced at five cents per round I often traded my paycheck for ammo. The clerks never wanted to count the loose rounds so they scooped what they thought was the correct amount and I know I always got 10-15% more than I was due.
In 1975 I had a smith add the S&W K frame rear sight and a taller front blade. That same year I sprung $32.50 for ivory grips.
In 1976 I started reloading and the first pistol caliber I loaded was the 45 ACP. Between the cheap surplus ammo and my own loads I can't even begin to count the many thousands of rounds I have fired through this pistol. In all that shooting it never once failed to feed, fire or eject. In 44 years no less than 100% reliability.
This pistol was stolen in 1985. It was recovered a few weeks later when cops made a routine traffic stop and the driver turned out to be on probation for selling drugs. Car was searched and the 45 was under the seat. I got it back a few days later.
I carried this gun for years working nights in a convenience store and as a bouncer in a bar. We have "seen the elephant" a few times together. Too many stories.
In 2011 I had it engraved. I still shoot it once in awhile but I don't carry it any longer. It has earned its retirement. I guess it would be wasteful but I have considered telling my wife to bury this one with me.
In 1975 I had a smith add the S&W K frame rear sight and a taller front blade. That same year I sprung $32.50 for ivory grips.
In 1976 I started reloading and the first pistol caliber I loaded was the 45 ACP. Between the cheap surplus ammo and my own loads I can't even begin to count the many thousands of rounds I have fired through this pistol. In all that shooting it never once failed to feed, fire or eject. In 44 years no less than 100% reliability.
This pistol was stolen in 1985. It was recovered a few weeks later when cops made a routine traffic stop and the driver turned out to be on probation for selling drugs. Car was searched and the 45 was under the seat. I got it back a few days later.
I carried this gun for years working nights in a convenience store and as a bouncer in a bar. We have "seen the elephant" a few times together. Too many stories.
In 2011 I had it engraved. I still shoot it once in awhile but I don't carry it any longer. It has earned its retirement. I guess it would be wasteful but I have considered telling my wife to bury this one with me.
