First Impressions of Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight
The Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight promises enhanced visibility and snag-free carry for 1911 pistols. Manufactured by Kensight, this sight aims to balance tactical functionality with concealed carry comfort. Featuring tritium inserts for low-light conditions and a rounded, serrated blade, it’s designed for both accuracy and practicality.
For years, I struggled to find a rear sight that provided both excellent nighttime visibility and a low-profile design suitable for concealed carry. Many tritium sights are bulky, snagging on clothing during draws, while others lack the necessary adjustability for fine-tuning accuracy. The Kensight LPA TRT seemed to offer a solution, combining tritium illumination with a rounded, snag-resistant profile.
Upon unboxing, the sight impressed me with its solid construction and attention to detail. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction felt robust, and the serrations on the blade provided a secure gripping surface. The tritium vials glowed brightly, even in dimly lit environments, promising excellent visibility in low-light scenarios.
Compared to other adjustable tritium sights I’ve used, such as those from Trijicon and Novak, the Kensight LPA TRT stood out due to its rounded profile and focus on snag reduction. While the Trijicon sights are known for their ruggedness and brightness, they can be bulky. Novak sights offer a classic design, but often lack the adjustability I need for precise zeroing. I chose the Kensight LPA TRT hoping for a balance of adjustability, visibility, and concealability.
My first impression of the Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well-thought-out, and the build quality appeared excellent. I was eager to test its performance on the range and see if it lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kensight LPA TRT at my local indoor shooting range. This environment allowed me to evaluate the sight’s visibility in controlled lighting conditions and assess its adjustability. I installed it on my custom-built 1911, ensuring proper fitment within the LPA-cut slide.
The sight performed exceptionally well in the range’s varied lighting conditions. The tritium vials provided a clear and bright aiming point in low-light scenarios, while the white outlines around the tritium dots aided visibility in brighter settings. I appreciated the adjustability of the sight, which allowed me to fine-tune my zero at 15 yards. There were no unexpected failures in the first 200 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my 1911. I’ve carried the pistol equipped with this sight daily, subjecting it to the rigors of concealed carry. It has also been tested in various outdoor conditions.
The sight has shown no signs of significant wear and tear. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction has held up well against scratches and impacts. The tritium vials continue to glow brightly, maintaining their visibility in low-light environments.
Maintaining the sight is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each range session is sufficient to remove any residue or grime. I’ve also used a mild solvent to clean the tritium vials, ensuring optimal brightness. Compared to other sights I’ve used, the Kensight LPA TRT requires minimal maintenance and has demonstrated exceptional durability. This has out performed cheaper alternatives I have used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kensight.
- Gun Make: 1911 Platform. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911-style pistols.
- Gun Model: 1911.
- Color: Black. The black finish provides a tactical and low-profile appearance.
- Fabric/Material: 4140 Chrome Moly Steel. This ensures exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Gun Type: Pistol.
- Illumination Type: Tritium. This provides excellent low-light visibility without the need for batteries.
These specifications are critical for understanding the sight’s performance and suitability for specific applications. The steel construction ensures longevity and ruggedness, while the tritium illumination enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The 1911 platform compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for a wide range of pistols.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight excels in providing enhanced visibility and accuracy in various lighting conditions. The tritium vials offer a clear and bright aiming point in low-light environments. The adjustable design allows for precise zeroing and customization to individual shooting styles.
The sight’s strengths lie in its adjustability, low-light visibility, and snag-free design. The only potential weakness is the relatively high price point compared to non-adjustable or non-tritium sights. Overall, the sight meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality, tactical pistol sight.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight LPA TRT boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The rounded blade and beveled edges minimize the risk of snagging during draws, making it ideal for concealed carry. The serrations on the blade provide a secure gripping surface for making adjustments.
The sight’s build quality is excellent, with the steel construction feeling robust and durable. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the pistol. The sight is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation and adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction of the Kensight LPA TRT ensures exceptional durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, the sight should last for many years of regular use. The tritium vials have a lifespan of approximately 12 years, after which they may need to be replaced.
Maintaining the sight is simple and straightforward. A regular wipe-down with a clean cloth and occasional cleaning with a mild solvent are sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The sight is also designed for easy repair, with replacement parts readily available from Kensight.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight is primarily designed as a standalone upgrade for 1911 pistols with LPA adjustable sight cuts. The product description recommends pairing it with their ProGlo tritium night sight with a lumi outline that comes with a 0.118” wide blade, which provides a matching front sight for optimal performance. The sight is compatible with standard Novak-type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″).
While the sight itself does not offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with standard front sight dovetails allows for some degree of personalization. Users can choose from a variety of front sights to match their preferred style and shooting preferences. Additionally, the adjustable design of the rear sight allows for fine-tuning the sight picture to match individual shooting styles and ammunition types.
Pros and Cons of Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight
Pros
- Excellent Low-Light Visibility: The tritium vials provide a clear and bright aiming point in low-light conditions, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition.
- Adjustable Design: The adjustable design allows for precise zeroing and customization to individual shooting styles and ammunition types.
- Snag-Free Profile: The rounded blade and beveled edges minimize the risk of snagging during draws, making it ideal for concealed carry.
- Durable Construction: The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction ensures exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: Simple drop-in installation for LPA cut slides.
Cons
- Price: The sight is relatively expensive compared to non-adjustable or non-tritium sights.
- Tritium Lifespan: The tritium vials have a limited lifespan (approximately 12 years) and may need to be replaced.
Who Should Buy Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight?
The Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight is perfect for:
- Concealed carry practitioners who prioritize low-light visibility and snag-free draws.
- Competitive shooters who need adjustable sights for precise zeroing and accuracy.
- Law enforcement and military personnel who require reliable sights for tactical applications.
- Anyone looking to upgrade their 1911 with a high-quality, durable, and functional rear sight.
Who should skip this product?
- Those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper alternatives available (though they may not offer the same level of quality or features).
- Individuals who do not need adjustable sights or tritium illumination.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Matching tritium front sight for optimal sight picture and low-light performance (as suggested by the manufacturer).
- Professional gunsmith installation (if you are not comfortable installing the sight yourself).
Conclusion on Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight
The Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight is a well-designed and exceptionally durable upgrade for any 1911 pistol. The tritium sights are very bright. It successfully blends tactical functionality with concealed carry practicality, offering excellent low-light visibility, precise adjustability, and a snag-free profile.
The price may be a barrier for some, but the quality and features justify the investment for those who demand the best. I have found it to be reliable and durable. I wholeheartedly recommend this sight to anyone looking to enhance the performance and versatility of their 1911.
If you’re serious about your 1911, and particularly if you’re looking to improve low-light performance and snag-free carry, the Kensight LPA TRT Serrated Rounded Blade Tritium Adjustable Rear Night Sight is a fantastic choice. Upgrade your pistol today and experience the difference a quality sight can make!