Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight Review

Let’s Dive into Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight is a component designed to elevate the performance and handling of the classic 1911 platform. Ed Brown Products is a name synonymous with quality and precision in the 1911 world, and this rear sight lives up to that reputation with its thoughtfully designed features. From its aggressively hooked front face for one-handed slide manipulation to its U-notch for rapid target acquisition, this sight aims to blend tactical functionality with classic 1911 aesthetics.

I’ve always been a staunch believer in the 1911 platform, but I also recognize the need for modern upgrades to enhance its capabilities. The original GI sights, while historically significant, often leave something to be desired in terms of speed and ease of use, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. I was looking for a rear sight that would improve my draw-to-first-shot time, while still maintaining the inherent accuracy of the 1911.

Out of the box, the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight impressed me with its robust construction and clean lines. The blued finish was evenly applied and the serrations were crisp and well-defined, suggesting a high level of attention to detail. Compared to the Novak sights that are commonly found on many 1911s, the Ed Brown sight offered a more aggressive profile with its prominent hook. My initial thought was that this was a sight built for serious use, not just for looks.

My initial reaction was one of excitement. I was eager to install this sight on one of my carry 1911s and see how it performed in live fire. I knew that I was going to give my classic pistol new life with this high-end rear sight that would improve my accuracy!

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight on my custom-built .45 ACP 1911 and headed to my local range. I set up a series of drills focusing on drawing from concealment and engaging multiple targets at varying distances. The weather was sunny and dry, perfect for testing the sight’s glare reduction capabilities.

The most noticeable difference was the speed at which I could acquire a sight picture. The U-notch design coupled with a fiber optic front sight allowed for extremely fast and intuitive alignment. The aggressively hooked front surface allowed me to perform one-handed slide manipulations against my belt, which proved invaluable for malfunction drills.

After my first range session, I was thoroughly impressed with the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight. There were no issues with installation or performance, and the sight provided a tangible improvement in my shooting speed and efficiency. The only surprise was how quickly I adapted to the new sight picture.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. I’ve put it through a variety of conditions, from hot, dusty range days to cold, damp IDPA matches. The finish has held up remarkably well, with no signs of rust or significant wear.

Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep the sight in good condition. Compared to other aftermarket sights I’ve used in the past, the Ed Brown sight stands out for its ruggedness and consistency. It is one that I would recommend to my fellow tactical experts.

The sight has consistently delivered accurate and reliable performance. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, ease of use, and overall value. It remains firmly in place after many rounds and it proves to be as accurate as it was on day one.

Breaking Down the Features of Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight

Specifications

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance:

• Material: Precision wired, then CNC machined from heat-treated 4140 bar stock, ensuring exceptional strength and resistance to wear. This is critical for a component that is often subjected to impact and stress.
• Dovetail Dimensions: Features a 65-degree x 0.495 dovetail, a standard size for many 1911s. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911 slides and makes installation relatively easy.
• Sight Height: Stands at 0.325 inches tall. This height is ideal for co-witnessing with many aftermarket front sights and is a great height for quick target acquisition.
• U-Notch Width: Available in two options: 0.140 inches and 0.156 inches. The 0.140-inch option provides a balance between accuracy and speed, while the 0.156-inch option is designed for use with larger dot front sights like those from XS Sights.
• Serrations: The rear of the sight is serrated at 40 lines per inch (LPI). These serrations effectively reduce glare and improve sight picture clarity in bright conditions.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the sight’s durability, compatibility, and overall user experience. The high-quality materials and precise machining ensure that the sight will withstand the rigors of regular use.

Performance & Functionality

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a clear and easily acquired sight picture, enhances one-handed slide manipulation, and maintains zero even under heavy recoil. The U-notch design allows for intuitive alignment with a dot front sight, significantly improving speed and accuracy in dynamic shooting scenarios.

One area for potential improvement could be the sharpness of the rear edges. While the sight is designed for tactical use, slightly chamfering the edges would enhance comfort during prolonged handling. Overall, the sight meets and exceeds expectations, especially given its relatively affordable price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight is excellent. The 4140 bar stock steel provides a solid and durable feel, while the blued finish gives it a professional and aesthetically pleasing look. The weight is appropriate for its size, providing a stable sight picture without adding unnecessary bulk to the pistol.

The sight is user-friendly, though professional installation is recommended to ensure proper fit and alignment. The sight picture is easy to understand and use, even for shooters new to aftermarket sights.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its high-quality materials and robust construction, the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight is expected to last for many years with proper care. The blued finish provides good corrosion resistance, and the steel construction is resistant to impact and abrasion.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication to keep the sight in optimal condition. The sight is not designed to be user-repairable, but its inherent durability minimizes the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of aftermarket front sights. The sight’s dovetail cut is standard for 1911s, allowing for easy installation and replacement.

The sight works particularly well with fiber optic and tritium front sights, providing a high-visibility sight picture in various lighting conditions. There are no other readily available customization options for this sight, but its simplicity and functionality make it a great choice as is.

Pros and Cons of Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight

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Who Should Buy Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight?

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight is perfect for:

• 1911 enthusiasts looking to modernize their pistol’s sighting system.
• Competitive shooters seeking to improve their draw-to-first-shot time.
• Law enforcement and military personnel who require reliable one-handed slide manipulation capabilities.
• Anyone looking for a durable and high-performing rear sight at an affordable price.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Those who prefer traditional notch-and-post sights.
• Individuals who are uncomfortable with professional gunsmithing work for installation.

A must-have modification would be pairing this sight with a high-visibility front sight, such as a fiber optic or tritium model, to maximize its effectiveness in various lighting conditions.

Conclusion on Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight

The Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight is an outstanding upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking to enhance their pistol’s performance and handling. Its thoughtfully designed features, durable construction, and affordable price make it a clear winner in its category. The precision machining of the Manufacturer, Ed Brown Products, is second to none!

At a price of $49.95, the sight represents an excellent value proposition, offering performance and features comparable to sights costing significantly more. It will definitely improve the way I shoot!

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Ed Brown Products Tactical Edge 1911 Rear Pistol Sight to anyone looking to improve their 1911’s sighting system. Upgrade your 1911 today!