I'm sure that the 1970s blue would be considered brighter,but this one is fine with an even finish.
I like the target hammer and target trigger.The new one also has a countersunk muzzle,and a patridge front sight.Action feels fine,no quality issues,as good as the old one(actually the old one has a tiny issue-the hammer wasn't shimmed,so there is cocking wear showing the right side) and I'm very fussy with my toys.I'm not one that's bothered by the IL.I'm also someone who always figures on replacing factory grips with something better,often Nills,Spegels, or Browns.In this case,the Combats did the trick.I'm also someone who only buys new guns,100%,so chances of stumbling into an older,perfect NIB 18 with target features were slim.