First Impressions of Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight promises enhanced visibility and one-handed manipulation for the classic 1911 pistol. As a seasoned user of 1911s in various tactical and recreational settings, I’m always on the lookout for upgrades that improve both performance and practicality. This offering from Kensight piqued my interest with its unique “Slam” feature and tritium night sights, promising a blend of modern utility and traditional craftsmanship.
I’ve run into situations where quickly cycling the slide one-handed was crucial. Whether it was an injured hand or needing to keep my other hand free, the stock 1911 sights just weren’t designed for that. This sight promised to solve that, and also give me better visibility in low light.
Upon unboxing, the sight exuded quality, the 4140 steel feeling robust and the tritium lamps glowing brightly. The recessed blade design was immediately noticeable, a feature I anticipated would reduce glare effectively. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – the sight looked well-made, but the true test would be in its installation and performance on the range.
I considered sights from Trijicon and Novak, both reputable brands in the 1911 sight market. However, the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight stood out due to its specific focus on one-handed slide manipulation and the combined features of tritium illumination and a glare-reducing design. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
The sight immediately impressed me with its robust construction and attention to detail. The overall design appeared well thought out, sparking a sense of eager anticipation to install the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight on my 1911 and get it to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight at my local outdoor range. I used my Springfield Armory 1911, a reliable workhorse that I’ve customized over the years, and wanted to test the sight at various distances. The weather was overcast, providing a good test for the glare reduction claims and the tritium illumination.
The sight performed admirably, the green tritium lamps providing a clear and easily acquired sight picture, even in the subdued lighting. One-handed slide manipulations were significantly easier and more reliable than with the factory sights. The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight allowed positive engagement with my belt, ensuring a smooth and consistent cycling of the slide.
The only initial issue was a slightly tighter fit than expected in the Novak LoMount dovetail, requiring minor filing for proper installation. After a few adjustments with a fine file, the sight sat perfectly flush and secure. Despite this initial hiccup, the enhanced visibility and one-handed functionality were immediately apparent and appreciated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight has proven to be a durable and reliable upgrade. I’ve used it during multiple range sessions, in varying weather conditions, and even incorporated it into some tactical drills. The sight continues to perform as intended, the tritium lamps maintaining their brightness and the steel construction showing no signs of wear or corrosion.
The black finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of scratching or fading, despite regular handling and holster use. Cleaning is straightforward – a simple wipe down with a cloth and a light application of gun oil is all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. The sight has demonstrably improved my 1911’s performance and handling.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard 1911 sights, the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight offers a noticeable advantage in both low-light conditions and emergency one-handed situations. It’s a significant upgrade that enhances the versatility and practicality of my 1911.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kensight
- Gun Make: 1911 Platform
- Gun Model: 1911
- Color: Black
- Fabric/Material: 4140 Chrome Moly Steel
- Gun Type: Pistol
- Front Blade Height: 0.16 in
- Illumination Type: Tritium
- Illumination Color: Green
- Mount Type: Dovetail
These specifications collectively translate to a sight that is both durable and functional. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel ensures longevity, while the Tritium illumination provides enhanced visibility in low-light scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight excels at enhancing the 1911’s usability in a variety of scenarios. Its primary function – providing a clear sight picture in low light and facilitating one-handed slide manipulation – is executed exceptionally well.
The recessed blade design significantly reduces glare, ensuring a crisp and unobstructed sight picture even in bright sunlight. The “Slam” feature allows for reliable one-handed slide cycling against any 90-degree angle, offering a critical advantage in emergency situations. While requiring some minor fitting, it meets and exceeds expectations for performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The 4140 steel construction lends it a solid, robust feel, while the black finish provides a sleek and professional appearance.
The sight is designed to work on a standard dovetail mount, so its integration appears smooth and natural, maintaining the classic lines of the 1911. A slight learning curve exists due to the one-handed manipulation technique, but this quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care and maintenance, this sight should last for many years.
Maintaining the sight is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The tritium lamps have an expected lifespan of over a decade, ensuring long-term functionality without the need for replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight is designed to be compatible with standard Novak-type front sights. The sight integrates seamlessly with various 1911 accessories, like holsters and slide releases.
The sight’s design allows it to pair well with different front sights to cater to user preference. The compatibility with aftermarket front sights offers further customization options for shooters seeking to fine-tune their sight picture.
Pros and Cons of Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Low-Light Visibility: The green tritium lamps provide a clear and easily acquired sight picture in dark environments.
- One-Handed Slide Manipulation: The “Slam” feature allows for reliable slide cycling against any 90-degree angle, crucial in emergency situations.
- Durable Construction: The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Reduced Glare: The recessed blade design minimizes glare for a crisp sight picture in bright sunlight.
- Easy to Install: Designed for a standard Novak LoMount dovetail cut, installation is straightforward with minor fitting potentially required.
Cons
- Minor Fitting Required: Some users may need to file the sight for proper fitment in the dovetail.
- Price: The sight is pricier than some basic fixed sight options, potentially making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight?
The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight is perfect for law enforcement, concealed carry holders, and tactical shooters. Anyone who prioritizes enhanced visibility in low-light conditions and the ability to perform one-handed slide manipulations in emergency situations will benefit greatly from this upgrade.
This product is not ideal for recreational shooters who are not concerned with tactical applications or low-light performance. Shooters on a tight budget may find the price prohibitive. A quality holster is a must-have accessory for anyone carrying a 1911 equipped with the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight.
Conclusion on Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight is a significant upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking enhanced visibility and one-handed functionality. While the price is higher than basic fixed sights, the quality, durability, and performance justify the investment for serious users.
Given its robust construction, reliable tritium illumination, and unique “Slam” feature, the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight is a worthwhile addition to any 1911. I wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight SLAM Recessed Blade ProGlo Fixed Rear 1911 Night Sight to anyone looking to improve their 1911’s performance in challenging conditions. If you value reliability, visibility, and one-handed manipulation capabilities, this sight is a must-have.