I have a 1973, 1979 and a 1993. The finish is noticeably different on the 73, seems to be a black coating, similar to a more modern finish like a Lauer durakote, it is original and shows a little wear. The '79 and the '95 are a much nicer finish, not blue like the old ones but the blue/black used on all new guns. They all work well and fulfill the purpose they were built for.