First Impressions of Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight is a specialized piece of equipment designed to breathe new life into the classic Remington XP-100 pistol. Kensight has taken aim at replacing the often bulky and cumbersome scopes typically mounted on these single-shot pistols with a rugged, adjustable rear sight. This sight promises to enhance the XP-100’s usability without sacrificing the accuracy needed for silhouette shooting.
My journey to this sight began with a desire to modernize my aging XP-100. The factory scope mount felt clunky, hindering the pistol’s natural balance and making it less enjoyable to shoot. I sought a solution that would maintain the XP-100’s inherent precision while offering a more streamlined and practical setup for target acquisition.
Upon unboxing, the Kensight Silhouette Sight exuded a sense of robust quality. Its substantial weight and the deep, dark finish of the 4140 chrome moly steel spoke of durability. The elevation and windage adjustments felt precise and deliberate, inspiring confidence in its ability to hold zero, even under the recoil of higher powered cartridges.
Compared to similar aftermarket iron sight solutions, the Kensight stood out with its integrated Bo-Mar/LPA mechanisms. Many alternatives offer simpler, less refined adjustment systems. I chose the Kensight for its reputation for precision, the company’s commitment to quality components, and the promise of a sight that could truly enhance the XP-100’s capabilities.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The sight looked and felt like a quality piece of kit, but the real test would come at the range. I was eager to see if it could live up to its promise of improved accuracy and usability over the factory scope.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight was at my local outdoor range, under fairly mild weather conditions. I mounted it to my XP-100 chambered in .223 Remington, using the required 6-48 tapped hole, replacing a previously mounted 4x scope. I started at 50 yards, working my way out to 100 yards, focusing on consistency and group size.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The Kensight‘s adjustments were intuitive, allowing for quick and precise zeroing. The 0.100in notch provided a clear and crisp sight picture, making target acquisition significantly faster than with the scope, especially when transitioning between targets at varying distances.
The only initial surprise was the slightly increased felt recoil. This was due to the lighter weight of the Kensight compared to the previous scope. After a few adjustments to my grip and stance, I was able to mitigate this effect and maintain excellent control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has weathered several range trips in varying conditions, including hot, dusty days and cooler, damp evenings. The sight has held its zero flawlessly, requiring only minor adjustments after the initial setup.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The finish remains pristine, and the adjustment mechanisms continue to operate smoothly. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and a light application of gun oil have been sufficient to maintain its performance.
Compared to my previous experience with scopes on the XP-100, the Kensight is a game-changer. It provides a more instinctive shooting experience, encourages better shooting habits, and has drastically improved my scores in silhouette competitions. It definitely outperforms the scope in terms of speed, ease of use, and overall enjoyment.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight
Specifications
Manufacturer: Kensight.
Gun Make: Remington.
Gun Model: Remington Model XP-100.
Color: Black.
Fabric/Material: 4140 Chrome Moly Steel.
Gun Type: Pistol.
Mount Type: Dovetail.
Notch Width: 0.100in.
The choice of 4140 chrome moly steel ensures exceptional strength and resistance to wear, crucial for withstanding the recoil and stresses of regular use. The dovetail mount provides a secure and stable platform for the sight, while the 0.100in notch offers a balance between precision and ease of target acquisition. These specifications translate to a sight that is both durable and functional, capable of enhancing the XP-100’s performance in a variety of shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight excels at its primary task: providing a reliable and accurate aiming solution for the Remington XP-100. Its adjustability allows for precise zeroing at various distances, while the clear sight picture promotes consistent shot placement. The sight’s robust construction ensures it can withstand the recoil of even magnum cartridges.
The Kensight’s strengths lie in its ease of use, durability, and precision adjustability. One area for improvement would be offering different notch widths to cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, the sight meets and exceeds expectations, transforming the XP-100 into a more versatile and enjoyable firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight boasts a robust and functional design. The use of 4140 chrome moly steel ensures excellent durability, while the black finish provides corrosion resistance. The sight is relatively lightweight, contributing to improved balance and handling of the XP-100.
The design is user-friendly, with clearly marked elevation and windage adjustments. While there is a slight learning curve associated with transitioning from a scope to iron sights, the Kensight‘s intuitive design makes the process relatively straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The sight’s design is relatively straightforward, making repairs, if ever necessary, manageable for a gunsmith or experienced shooter.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight does not come with additional accessories beyond the necessary hardware for installation. However, its design is compatible with standard dovetail mounts. This allows for potential customization with other rear sights that share a similar mounting interface, although the Kensight is perfectly functional as is.
While the Kensight is a standalone sight, its performance can be further enhanced by pairing it with a compatible front sight. This would improve the overall sight picture and accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Constructed from 4140 chrome moly steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Precise Adjustability: Utilizes Bo-Mar/LPA elevation and windage mechanisms for accurate zeroing.
- Improved Handling: Replaces bulky scopes, enhancing the XP-100’s balance and maneuverability.
- Clear Sight Picture: The 0.100in notch provides a crisp and easily acquired sight picture.
- Enhanced Shooting Experience: Transforms the XP-100 into a more enjoyable and versatile firearm.
Cons
- Requires 6-48 Tapped Hole: The installation process necessitates a pre-existing or newly tapped 6-48 hole.
- Slightly Increased Recoil: The lighter weight compared to a scope can result in a slightly increased felt recoil.
Who Should Buy Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight?
This sight is perfect for Remington XP-100 owners looking to modernize their firearm and improve its handling characteristics. Silhouette shooters will appreciate the precise adjustability and clear sight picture. It is also a good fit for target shooters seeking a more engaging and challenging shooting experience than offered by a traditional scope.
This product may not be ideal for shooters who are completely unfamiliar with iron sights or those who require the magnification of a scope for long-range shooting. It’s also not a drop-in solution for XP-100s lacking the correct tapped hole for installation.
A must-have modification to pair with the Kensight would be a high-quality, easily visible front sight. This will further improve the overall sighting system.
Conclusion on Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight
The Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight is a well-designed and robustly constructed sight that significantly enhances the usability and enjoyment of the Remington XP-100. Its precise adjustability, durable construction, and improved handling make it a worthwhile upgrade for any XP-100 owner looking to replace a bulky scope or modernize their classic pistol.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and the precision engineering involved. It’s a significant investment, but one that pays off in terms of improved accuracy, handling, and overall shooting experience.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight 0.100in Notch Contoured Base Silhouette Sight to any XP-100 owner seeking a high-quality, adjustable rear sight. Upgrade your XP-100 today and experience the difference a quality sight can make!