First Impressions of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight promises a robust and reliable upgrade for Kimber 1911 pistols equipped with factory-supplied fixed sights. Kensight touts it as a “Defensive Fixed Sight,” emphasizing durability and ease of acquisition under stress. The promise of wire-EDM cut 4140 steel and distinct serrations immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve long been a proponent of improving a pistol’s sight picture for faster target acquisition, especially on a platform as iconic as the 1911. I was experiencing difficulty achieving rapid sight alignment with the factory sights on my Kimber Custom II while participating in local IDPA matches, impacting my times and overall accuracy. The serrated blade and precise Kimber dovetail fit of this Kensight sight seemed like a solution to enhance my competitive performance.
The sight arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The initial impression was positive; the steel felt substantial and the serrations were cleanly cut and offered a surprisingly aggressive texture. The black finish was even and appeared durable. Comparing it to a Novak-style rear sight from Dawson Precision and a Heinie Slant Pro, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight seemed to strike a balance between ruggedness and refined design. I opted for the Kensight primarily due to its direct Kimber fit and promise of improved sight picture in stressful situations.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to install the sight and see if it would live up to its promise of enhanced performance in real-world shooting scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight took place at my local shooting range. I focused on drills involving rapid target acquisition and transitions. The weather was clear and sunny, providing excellent visibility.
The serrations on the sight blade immediately proved their worth. They significantly reduced glare, resulting in a much clearer and more defined sight picture compared to the factory sight. While it initially felt a bit different, I adapted quickly and found target acquisition to be noticeably faster. There were no immediate issues, and the sight held zero throughout the session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds fired, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight has held up admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear. The sight remains securely mounted in the dovetail, and the finish continues to resist scratches and corrosion.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking new. Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket sights that required frequent adjustments or showed premature wear, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight has been a reliable and consistent performer. It consistently outperforms the original factory sights in terms of clarity and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kensight produces the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight. Kensight is known for precision firearm sights.
- Gun Make: The sight is specifically designed for the 1911 Platform. This ensures proper fit and function on these pistols.
- Gun Model: The sight is compatible with the 1911. This reinforces its classic design appeal and functionality.
- Color: The sight features a black finish. Black is a standard color for firearm sights because it reduces glare.
- Fabric/Material: The sight is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel. This provides exceptional durability and resistance to wear.
- Gun Type: The sight is designed for pistols. It is not compatible with rifles or shotguns.
- Mount Type: The sight utilizes a dovetail mount. This provides a secure and stable attachment to the slide.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the sight’s durability, compatibility, and overall performance. The 4140 steel ensures longevity, while the dovetail mount provides a stable platform for accurate shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight excels in its primary role: providing a clear and easily acquired sight picture. The serrations effectively minimize glare, even in bright sunlight, allowing for faster and more accurate target acquisition. The sight’s robust construction ensures it holds zero consistently, even under recoil.
The main strength is its simplicity and reliability. There are no complex adjustments or fragile components. One potential improvement would be offering different notch widths to further customize the sight picture based on individual preferences. The sight undoubtedly meets and exceeds expectations, significantly improving the shooting experience compared to the factory sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight’s design is functional and understated. The black finish blends seamlessly with most 1911 pistols, and the serrations add a subtle, tactical aesthetic. The steel construction provides a solid, substantial feel.
The sight is inherently user-friendly, requiring no specific adjustment beyond initial installation. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight is built to last. The 4140 steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. The finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The sight’s robust design means it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight is primarily a standalone upgrade. The provided product details specify that it pairs well with a standard flat front sight with a serrated blade, sold with a 0.200” tall blade. Blade heights from 0.150” to 0.220” are available upon request. The sight is also compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″) as typically found on both customized and factory 1911 pistols.
While it doesn’t directly interface with traditional accessories like optics, its improved sight picture enhances overall accuracy, which is beneficial regardless of other modifications. The compatibility with Novak-style front sights provides some flexibility in customizing the front sight to match individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Sight Picture: The serrated blade dramatically reduces glare, providing a clear and crisp sight picture in various lighting conditions.
- Durable Construction: The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel build ensures exceptional strength and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: Designed for a direct fit into Kimber 1911 dovetails, simplifying the installation process.
- Improved Accuracy: Facilitates faster target acquisition and more precise aiming, leading to enhanced accuracy.
- Reliable Performance: Holds zero consistently, even after extended use and exposure to recoil.
Cons
- May require professional installation if you are unfamiliar with firearm maintenance.
- The aggressive serrations might be too much for some users’ preferences.
Who Should Buy Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight?
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight is perfect for 1911 enthusiasts looking to improve their sight picture and shooting accuracy. Competitive shooters and those who carry a 1911 for self-defense will particularly benefit from the enhanced target acquisition. Anyone who finds the factory sights lacking in clarity or ease of use will also appreciate this upgrade.
Those who are completely satisfied with their current sights or prefer adjustable sights should probably skip this product. Individuals uncomfortable with basic firearm maintenance may need to seek professional installation.
A matching serrated front sight is almost a must-have to fully realize the benefits of the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight.
Conclusion on Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight
The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight is a worthwhile upgrade for any Kimber 1911 owner seeking a durable and effective sight. Its enhanced sight picture, robust construction, and easy installation make it a standout product in its category. The price of $64.12 is justified by the significant improvement in performance and overall shooting experience.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Rear Sight to anyone looking to enhance the accuracy and reliability of their 1911 pistol. Upgrade your Kimber 1911 today and experience the difference a quality sight can make!