First Impressions of Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight promises enhanced visibility and rugged reliability for Kimber 1911 pistols equipped with factory-supplied fixed sights. As someone who prioritizes accuracy and rapid target acquisition in both daylight and low-light scenarios, I was intrigued by the potential upgrade this sight offered. This sight aims to improve upon the standard fixed sights with tritium illumination and enhanced durability, catering to both recreational shooters and those relying on their 1911 for personal defense.
My journey to discover the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight stemmed from a persistent challenge with my Kimber 1911’s factory sights. The original sights, while functional, lacked sufficient visibility in dim lighting, hindering my ability to quickly and accurately acquire targets during early morning range sessions or low-light training exercises. I needed a sight that offered a clear and consistent sight picture, regardless of the ambient light, without compromising the pistol’s reliability or ease of use.
Upon unboxing the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The sight felt solid and well-made, exuding an air of quality that instilled confidence. The serrated rear blade and clearly defined tritium dots with white outlines appeared thoughtfully designed for optimal visibility.
Several similar sights from Trijicon and XS Sights crossed my radar during my search. Ultimately, I chose the Kensight model because of its direct fit for Kimber 1911s with factory fixed sights, the clear emphasis on durability with the 4140 steel construction, and the balance it struck between enhanced visibility and a clean, uncluttered sight picture. I wanted an upgrade that improved my shooting experience without fundamentally altering the classic 1911 aesthetic.
My initial impression of the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight was one of cautious optimism. The build quality and design details suggested a significant upgrade, but the true test would be its performance on the range. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of improved visibility and accuracy in real-world shooting scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight was at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested the sight on my Kimber Custom II 1911 under varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to overcast skies. The enhanced visibility provided by the tritium dots was immediately apparent, making target acquisition significantly faster and easier, particularly during the early morning hours when the range was still partially shaded.
The Kensight sight performed exceptionally well under different conditions. The serrated rear blade reduced glare in bright sunlight, while the tritium dots provided a clear and consistent aiming point in low-light situations. The transition between light conditions was seamless, allowing me to maintain consistent accuracy without having to adjust my sight picture. No issues arose during the initial testing; the sight functioned flawlessly from the first magazine.
The sight required minimal adjustment. After a few initial shots to confirm the point of impact, I was consistently hitting the bullseye at 15 yards. The improved sight picture inspired confidence and allowed me to focus on my fundamentals.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. I have used it in multiple training sessions, shooting competitions, and even carried it during outdoor activities in varying weather conditions. The sight has held up admirably, showing no signs of wear or degradation in performance.
The Kensight sight has proven its durability. Despite being subjected to repeated recoil and handling, the tritium dots remain bright and the sight remains securely mounted. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth and occasional application of gun oil to prevent corrosion. In comparison to the factory sights, the Kensight sight offers a superior sight picture, enhanced durability, and increased confidence in my ability to accurately engage targets in any lighting condition.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight
Specifications
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its enhanced performance. It features a dovetail mount type, ensuring a secure and precise fit on Kimber 1911s with factory-supplied fixed sights. The sight is crafted from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, providing exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
The rear blade is partially serrated to reduce glare and improve sight acquisition in bright sunlight. Two Green tritium dots, each 0.076 inches in diameter, are embedded on either side of the notch, providing excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The front blade height is 0.16 inches, offering a balanced sight picture. The sight is finished in a durable black coating for added corrosion resistance. These specifications are vital for ensuring reliable performance and a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions, ultimately contributing to improved accuracy and shooting confidence.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight excels in its primary function: enhancing visibility and accuracy for Kimber 1911 pistols. The tritium dots provide a clear and consistent aiming point in low-light conditions. The serrated rear blade minimizes glare in bright sunlight, resulting in a clear and uncluttered sight picture regardless of the ambient lighting.
The sight’s strength lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between different lighting conditions. The tritium dots are bright enough to be easily visible in dim light but not so bright as to be distracting in daylight. One area for potential improvement could be offering different tritium color options to cater to individual preferences. Overall, the Kensight sight meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction provides a solid and durable feel, while the black finish complements the appearance of most 1911 pistols. The sight’s weight is negligible, not impacting the balance of the firearm.
The sight is designed for ease of use, requiring no special tools or modifications for installation. The sight picture is clear and uncluttered, promoting rapid target acquisition. The sight is intuitive and requires minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight’s robust construction suggests it will last for many years. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel provides exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and impact. The tritium lamps are designed to maintain their brightness for over a decade.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and mild solvent. The sight’s durable finish protects it from the elements and makes it easy to keep in good working order. The sight is designed for long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight is primarily designed as a direct replacement for factory-supplied fixed sights on Kimber 1911 pistols. It does not come with any additional accessories. However, its dovetail mount design makes it compatible with a variety of aftermarket sight pushers, facilitating easier installation and adjustment.
While the sight itself does not offer extensive customization options, the improved sight picture and enhanced visibility it provides can significantly improve the performance of other accessories, such as laser grips or weapon-mounted lights. The Kensight sight provides a solid foundation for optimizing the overall shooting experience.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight
Pros
- Dramatically improved low-light visibility: The tritium dots offer a clear and consistent aiming point in dim lighting conditions, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
- Rugged and durable construction: The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy installation: Designed as a direct replacement for factory sights, installation is relatively straightforward with the proper tools.
- Enhanced sight picture: The serrated rear blade reduces glare in bright sunlight, providing a clear and uncluttered sight picture.
- Direct fit for Kimber 1911s: Guarantees compatibility and a secure fit on Kimber 1911 pistols with factory fixed sights.
Cons
- Limited customization options: The sight is not adjustable for windage or elevation.
- Price: The sight is relatively expensive compared to standard fixed sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight?
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight is perfect for Kimber 1911 owners who prioritize accuracy and visibility in all lighting conditions. This is an excellent upgrade for concealed carriers, home defense enthusiasts, and recreational shooters who want to improve their shooting performance. It is a solid choice for anyone seeking a durable, reliable, and easy-to-install sight upgrade.
Those seeking adjustable sights for fine-tuning windage and elevation adjustments should skip this product. Shooters on a very tight budget may also find the price prohibitive.
A sight pusher tool is a must-have accessory for easy and damage-free installation.
Conclusion on Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight
The Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight is a worthwhile upgrade for Kimber 1911 owners seeking improved visibility and durability. Its tritium illumination and robust steel construction provide a noticeable advantage in various lighting conditions. The enhanced sight picture promotes faster and more accurate target acquisition.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, precision manufacturing, and significant performance improvement. I would personally recommend the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight to anyone looking to enhance the performance and reliability of their Kimber 1911.
Upgrade your Kimber 1911 today with the Kensight Kimber Fixed Rear Sight and experience the difference!