First Impressions of Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight promises enhanced accuracy and low-light visibility for the venerable 1911 platform. Kensight has a solid reputation for producing quality iron sights, and the integration of tritium lamps into their DAS (Defense Adjustable Sight) model caught my eye. The adjustable elevation, combined with night sight capability, makes this an appealing upgrade for serious shooters.
For years, I struggled with inconsistent point-of-impact on my 1911, particularly at longer ranges. I needed a robust, adjustable rear sight that would allow me to fine-tune my elevation without sacrificing the ability to acquire targets quickly in dim conditions. The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight seemed like a perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the sight impressed me with its solid, all-steel construction and clean, matte black finish. The tritium lamps glowed brightly, even in moderate lighting, instilling confidence in their nighttime performance. The recessed blade design appeared well-executed, promising a snag-free draw.
I considered options from Trijicon and Meprolight, both reputable names in night sights. Ultimately, I chose the Kensight sight for its combination of adjustability, rugged build, and the positive reviews regarding Kensight’s dovetail dimensions. I was hoping for a significant improvement over my factory sights.
I was genuinely excited to install the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight and get it to the range. I anticipated a noticeable improvement in both daytime and nighttime shooting, along with the ability to dial in my preferred elevation setting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, under bright sunlight and moderate wind conditions. I installed the sight on my Colt 1911 using a sight pusher tool, ensuring a snug and secure fit in the Novak LoMount dovetail. The installation was straightforward, taking only about 15 minutes.
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight performed admirably under these conditions. I was able to quickly acquire a clear sight picture and the elevation adjustment worked perfectly allowing for fine-tuning at 25 yards. There were no initial issues, and the sight felt secure and well-built during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The sight has held up extremely well with no signs of loosening or shifting, even after hundreds of rounds fired. I have complete faith in its reliability.
The black finish has resisted wear and tear remarkably well, showing only minor blemishes after repeated holster draws. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range visit. The sight surpasses my expectations for durability and ease of maintenance.
Compared to my previous factory sights, the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight offers a significant improvement in accuracy and low-light performance. The adjustable elevation feature is invaluable for dialing in precise point-of-impact at various distances. This sight has transformed my 1911 shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight
Specifications
Gun Make: The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight is specifically designed for the 1911 platform. This ensures proper fit and function on a wide range of 1911 pistols.
Gun Model: Compatible with various 1911 models, including Springfield Armory, Colt, Wilson Combat, STI International, Les Baer Custom, Rock River Arms, and Dan Wesson. Its universal design makes it a versatile upgrade option.
Color: Features a matte black finish. This reduces glare and provides a tactical aesthetic.
Fabric/Material: Constructed from durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel. This ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
Gun Type: Exclusively for pistols. This sight is not intended for use on rifles or shotguns.
Front Blade Height: The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight has a 0.2-inch front blade height. Different blade heights are available from 0.150″ to 0.210″ to match user preference.
Illumination Type: Uses Trijicon tritium lamps. This provides a constant, reliable glow in low-light conditions without requiring batteries.
Mount Type: Designed for a dovetail mount. This is compatible with the popular Novak LoMount rear sight cut, simplifying installation.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sight’s durability, visibility, and ease of installation. The steel construction ensures longevity, while the tritium lamps enhance low-light performance. The dovetail mount allows for easy installation on a wide range of 1911 pistols.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight excels in enhancing accuracy and improving low-light target acquisition. The elevation adjustment allows for precise zeroing, and the tritium lamps provide a clear sight picture in dim conditions. This combination of features significantly improves shooting performance.
The sight’s strengths lie in its robust construction, precise adjustability, and reliable tritium illumination. The elevation adjustment mechanism functions smoothly and holds its setting securely. A potential area for improvement could be the addition of windage adjustment, though this is not a deal-breaker.
Overall, the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight meets and exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved accuracy and low-light visibility, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any 1911 owner.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight boasts a well-thought-out design and solid ergonomics. The steel construction gives it a substantial feel without adding excessive weight. The recessed blade design minimizes snagging on clothing or gear.
The sight is relatively user-friendly, although some experience with sight installation and adjustment is recommended. The tritium lamps are clearly visible, and the sight picture is easy to acquire in various lighting conditions. There is a slight learning curve when it comes to adjusting the elevation.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight is designed for long-term durability. The finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring that the sight will maintain its appearance and performance over time. This ensures its longevity.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and mild solvent. The tritium lamps are self-illuminating and do not require any special maintenance. This makes the sight easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight does not come with any additional accessories beyond the sight itself. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 front sights, allowing for customization of the sight picture. The front sight fits a 0.330″x 65 x 0.070″ dovetail.
Users can also choose from different blade heights to fine-tune the sight to their specific shooting style and ammunition. The availability of different front sight options further enhances the customization potential. This makes it adaptable to individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight
Pros
- Offers precise elevation adjustment for improved accuracy at various distances.
- Features bright and reliable tritium lamps for enhanced low-light visibility.
- Constructed from durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel for long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with the popular Novak LoMount dovetail cut for easy installation.
- Provides a clear and easy-to-acquire sight picture in various lighting conditions.
Cons
- Offers elevation adjustment only, lacking windage adjustment.
- Relatively expensive compared to basic fixed sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight?
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize accuracy and low-light performance. It is an excellent upgrade for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who uses their 1911 for self-defense. Those who want to improve long-range accuracy will benefit greatly from the elevation adjustment feature.
This product may not be necessary for casual shooters who primarily use their 1911 for occasional recreational shooting. Also, individuals who prefer simpler, fixed sights may not appreciate the added complexity of the adjustable elevation. Shooters requiring windage adjustment may need to consider other options.
A sight pusher tool is a must-have accessory for proper installation. A high-quality front sight with a matching tritium insert is recommended to complete the night sight system. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to maintain the sight’s performance and longevity.
Conclusion on Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight is a well-built and highly functional upgrade for any 1911. Its combination of adjustable elevation, reliable tritium illumination, and durable steel construction makes it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. It offers a significant improvement over factory sights.
The price is justified by the enhanced accuracy and low-light performance that this sight provides. While the lack of windage adjustment may be a drawback for some, the adjustable elevation feature is a game-changer for those seeking to fine-tune their 1911’s point-of-impact. Overall, this is a great product.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight DAS Recessed Blade Adjustable Elevation Only Rear 1911 Night Sight to anyone looking to improve their 1911’s accuracy and low-light capabilities. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference!