First Impressions of Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight promises to be a significant upgrade for any 1911 platform pistol. Kensight aims to deliver enhanced accuracy and visibility in both daylight and low-light conditions with this sight. Its fully adjustable design and tritium illumination immediately caught my attention.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a 1911 sight that offered both precision adjustability and reliable night-time visibility. My aging eyes need all the help they can get, especially when dealing with a classic like the 1911. The Kensight DAS seemed to offer the perfect blend of these features.
Upon unboxing, the sight exuded quality. The 4140 chrome moly steel felt substantial and the black finish was evenly applied. The tritium lamps glowed brightly, even in moderate lighting, and the click adjustments for windage and elevation felt precise and positive. Compared to other adjustable sights I’ve used, such as the LPA TPU series, the Kensight seemed more robust and better suited for daily carry. I chose it over a cheaper Truglo option, betting on Kensight’s reputation for durability and precision.
I was immediately excited. The combination of adjustability, night sight capability, and what appears to be robust construction suggested a premium product. I anticipated it would be a significant improvement over the factory sights on my Colt Government model.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight was at my local indoor shooting range. I mounted it on my trusty .45 ACP 1911, and I brought along a variety of ammunition weights to test the adjustability of the sight. The initial zeroing process was straightforward; the positive clicks made small, incremental adjustments easy to achieve.
Performance was impressive. Even under the harsh fluorescent lights of the range, the tritium lamps were easily visible, providing a clear and distinct sight picture. The partially serrated slanted blade effectively reduced glare, even when shooting towards the brighter end of the range. No surprises arose; the sight performed as expected, offering a clear and adjustable sight picture.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kensight DAS continues to perform admirably. I’ve put hundreds of rounds downrange with it, and the sight shows no signs of loosening or losing zero. It has endured multiple cleanings and remained rust-free, attesting to the quality of the steel and finish.
The sight has proven remarkably durable. Despite regular concealed carry and occasional bumps, there are no visible scratches or dings on the blade. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it clean and functional. It definitely outperforms the cheaper adjustable sights I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight
Specifications
The Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, ensuring high strength and corrosion resistance. It’s finished in a matte black, reducing glare and providing a professional appearance. The sight is specifically designed for the 1911 Platform, fitting Novak-type dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″).
It features fully adjustable windage and elevation, allowing precise zeroing for various ammunition types and shooting distances. The illumination is provided by two Green Tritium Lamps surrounded by High Visibility White Dots, offering a 3-dot sight picture that’s easy to acquire in both bright and low light conditions. The front blade height is typically 0.200 inches, but other heights are available upon request. These specs translate to a durable, accurate, and highly visible sighting system.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight DAS excels in both accuracy and usability. The precise click adjustments allow for fine-tuning the point of impact. This is especially helpful for those who reload their own ammunition or frequently switch between different bullet weights. The tritium lamps provide a consistent and reliable sight picture in any lighting condition.
The sight’s strengths lie in its adjustability and visibility. The only area for potential improvement would be offering different color options for the tritium lamps, to suit individual shooter preferences. It definitely meets expectations, providing a significant upgrade in accuracy and low-light performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight DAS features a flat profile design that minimizes snagging during concealed carry. The 4140 chrome moly steel construction gives it a solid and substantial feel, inspiring confidence in its durability. The serrated rear blade effectively reduces glare, improving sight picture clarity.
The sight is user-friendly and requires no special tools for adjustment. The click adjustments are tactile and audible, ensuring precise and repeatable changes. There is no significant learning curve. Mounting may require a gunsmith if you aren’t comfortable working on your firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from robust materials, the Kensight DAS is built to last. The 4140 chrome moly steel is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this sight should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a mild solvent and light lubrication will keep the sight functioning optimally. Repair, if ever needed, would likely require a gunsmith due to the sight’s precision components.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight DAS is often paired with their standard tritium flat base front sight, which is also compatible with Novak-type dovetail cuts. While it doesn’t come with any additional accessories, the ability to choose different front blade heights offers a degree of customization. The sight is compatible with most standard 1911 accessories, such as holsters and grips.
Pros and Cons of Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight
Pros
- Fully Adjustable Windage and Elevation: Allows precise zeroing for various ammunition types and shooting distances.
- Tritium Illumination with White Dots: Provides a clear and visible sight picture in both bright and low-light conditions.
- Durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel Construction: Ensures long-lasting reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Flat Profile Design: Minimizes snagging during concealed carry.
- Positive and Precise Click Adjustments: Make zeroing easy and repeatable.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than some other 1911 sight options.
- Requires Gunsmith (Potentially): Installation may require professional gunsmithing services for some users.
Who Should Buy Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight?
The Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize accuracy, adjustability, and low-light visibility. It’s an excellent choice for concealed carry permit holders, competitive shooters, and anyone who relies on their 1911 for personal defense. Those who require the ability to fine-tune their sights for different ammunition or shooting conditions will especially appreciate its adjustability.
This product might not be the best choice for budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer fixed sights. Individuals uncomfortable with potentially needing gunsmithing services for installation might also want to consider other options.
A high-quality holster that accommodates the slightly taller sight profile would be a must-have accessory. Additionally, a front sight tool to aid in the installation and adjustment of the front sight would be beneficial.
Conclusion on Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight
The Kensight DAS Flat Profile Adjustable Rear 1911 Night Sight is a top-tier upgrade for any 1911 platform pistol. Its combination of adjustability, durability, and tritium illumination makes it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. While it may be more expensive than some alternatives, the enhanced accuracy and low-light performance justify the price.
I would absolutely recommend this sight to anyone looking to improve the performance of their 1911. It provides a tangible increase in accuracy and confidence, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Upgrade your 1911 today with the Kensight DAS and experience the difference! You won’t regret it.