Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight Review

First Thoughts on the Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight promises to be a high-quality replacement for the increasingly rare Bo-Mar adjustable sights. As a seasoned 1911 enthusiast and competitive shooter, I’ve always appreciated the precise adjustments offered by a good adjustable rear sight. The promise of Ed Brown’s reputation for quality and tight tolerances immediately piqued my interest. This sight claims to withstand the rigors of service ammunition and provide dependable performance for competitive pistol shooters, a bold claim that I was eager to verify.

My journey toward this particular sight began with a frustration shared by many 1911 owners. I was seeking a replacement rear sight for my well-worn competition pistol. Factory sights simply didn’t offer the minute adjustments needed to compensate for different ammunition loads or shooting conditions. I needed an adjustable solution that would hold zero and stand up to thousands of rounds downrange.

Upon receiving the sight, I immediately noted its solid construction and clean lines. The blued finish appeared even and well-applied. The weight felt reassuring without being excessive. Compared to some cheaper adjustable sights I’ve encountered, the Ed Brown felt like a significant step up in terms of material and build quality. It instantly felt more robust than the MIM (Metal Injection Molded) sight that it was intended to replace.

I chose the Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight over other options because of the Ed Brown name and its direct replacement nature. Some competitors require extensive milling or modification to the slide. The Ed Brown, however, advertises a dovetail cut similar to the classic Bo-Mar. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I hoped that it would live up to its promise of being a worthy successor to a legendary sight.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight at my local shooting range. I tested with a variety of ammunition, from standard 230-grain FMJ to some hotter +P defensive rounds. The initial installation, performed by my trusted gunsmith, went smoothly. The sight fit snugly into the dovetail without requiring excessive force.

I spent the afternoon zeroing the sight at 25 yards. The adjustments were precise and positive, with audible clicks. I was able to dial in my desired point of impact with relative ease. Even after several magazines of +P ammunition, the sight held its zero. This was a crucial test as some sights tend to drift under recoil.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put approximately 2,000 rounds through my pistol with this sight installed. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. The blued finish has held up well, showing only minimal wear at the edges.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with adjustable sights, the Ed Brown has outperformed them in terms of durability and consistent zero retention. I am confident it will last for years to come.

Breaking Down the Features of Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight

Specifications

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight is designed as a drop-in replacement for standard Bo-Mar-style adjustable sights on 1911 pistols. It is available exclusively in a blued finish. The dovetail is machined to 60 degrees x 0.359 inches. The notch width is approximately 0.115 inches. It is fully adjustable for both windage and elevation.

• 60-degree x 0.359-inch Dovetail: This ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911 slides that have been cut for Bo-Mar style sights. The precise dimensions are critical for a secure and stable fit.
• 0.115-inch Notch Width: This is a standard notch width that provides a good balance between speed and accuracy. It allows for quick target acquisition while still offering a reasonably precise sight picture.
• Fully Adjustable for Windage and Elevation: This is the key feature that sets this sight apart from fixed sights. It enables the user to fine-tune the point of impact to match their preferred ammunition and shooting style.
• Blued Finish: While aesthetically pleasing, the blued finish also provides a degree of corrosion resistance. This helps protect the sight from the elements and prolong its lifespan.
• Low-Profile Design: It keeps the sight from snagging during draws and provides a clear sight picture.

These specifications are essential for ensuring the sight’s compatibility, accuracy, and durability. The tight tolerances and high-quality materials contribute to a consistent and reliable shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight performs admirably in its primary function: providing precise and repeatable adjustments to the point of impact. The clicks are distinct and tactile. Each adjustment moves the point of impact predictably. The sight holds its zero even under heavy recoil.

• Strengths: The sight’s primary strength lies in its precise adjustability and robust construction. The tight tolerances ensure a secure fit and consistent performance.
• Weaknesses: The only potential weakness is the blued finish. While attractive, it may not be as durable as some other finishes like Cerakote or nitride.

The sight meets and exceeds my expectations for an adjustable rear sight. It provides a clear sight picture, reliable adjustments, and exceptional durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight features a clean and functional design. The sight is constructed from high-quality steel. It feels solid and well-made in the hand. The low-profile design minimizes the risk of snagging.

The sight is relatively user-friendly, although some familiarity with adjustable sights is helpful. The adjustment screws are easily accessible and can be manipulated with a small screwdriver or even a cartridge rim.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight is built to last. The high-quality steel construction and precise machining ensure exceptional durability. The sight is easy to maintain with regular cleaning and lubrication.

With proper care, this sight should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight is primarily a standalone component. It is intended to be paired with a compatible front sight. Ed Brown recommends their #1624 front sight.

The sight is compatible with any 1911 slide that has been cut for a Bo-Mar style adjustable sight.

Pros and Cons of Ed Brown 1911 Adjustable Rear Sight