Different between S&W 1911 "E", "Pro", and regular 1911?

[2garfields]

Saw an used 1911 stainless in a shop, just like to know the different between the "E", "Pro" and regular 1911, I checked out the S&W web site, did not get much info.

 

[TonyDedo]

Good summary from someone on another forum:

In order to make them drop safe; the new E Series 1911 pistols have a lightweight titanium firing pin rather than a steel pin, and heavier firing pin springs

They are, therefore, not equipped with the grip safety operated, Swarz type firing pin block safety as are previous S&W 1911 pattern pistols.

They have a ribbed slide top treatment.

The fish scale type slide serrations are new to the E Series.

The front grip strap is undercut beneath the trigger guard for an improved grip.

They have a 25 LPI checkered front grip strap.

They have the larger, more robust, Performance Center/Pro Series type extractor.

They have a new trigger design with less slop that more closely approximates a fully fitted trigger.

The ejection port is slightly enlarged and its profile has been reshaped in a manner that is likely to improve the ejection of unfired rounds.

They are being manufactured on brand new CNC machines and production has been moved to Houlton Maine.

Last and least are the various new E Series grips, depending on the particular model.

Of course, take a look at the thread. He didn't have a good experience:
http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=317246

One of ours had something odd with his E Series too, although not as serious:
http://www.northeastshooters.com/vbulletin/threads/153926-S-amp-W-E-series-help