First Impressions of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is a dedicated upgrade component for the classic 1911 pistol platform. Offered by Kensight, a company known for its precision sights, this front sight promises enhanced visibility and a clean sight picture, especially in challenging lighting conditions. For the seasoned 1911 user looking for improved target acquisition, this sight appears to be a straightforward and effective solution.
I’ve been running a custom 1911 for years, but the factory front sight always felt lacking, particularly during bright daylight target practice. I was looking for a sight that reduced glare and provided a crisp, clear point of focus. The Kensight sight’s serrated patridge blade design seemed like the ideal solution to my needs.
Upon unboxing, the Kensight front sight presented a robust and well-machined appearance. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction felt solid and durable, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of regular use. The contoured base exhibited a smooth, clean design, suggesting a seamless integration with the slide of my 1911.
Compared to other aftermarket front sights I considered, the Kensight stood out for its focus on simplicity and functionality. Some sights offer fiber optic inserts or tritium illumination, but these weren’t my primary need. I was more interested in glare reduction and improved clarity, and the Kensight sight was specifically designed to address those issues.
My first impression was a feeling of cautious optimism. The sight looked well-made, and the design aligned with my specific needs, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. The price point of $23.99 also made it an attractive option.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight on my primary 1911 and headed to an outdoor range to test its performance. The installation was straightforward, requiring minimal fitting thanks to the contoured base, blending nicely with the slide. The initial shooting session was conducted under bright sunlight to assess the glare reduction properties of the serrated blade.
The difference compared to my old sight was immediately noticeable. The serrated patridge blade significantly reduced glare, providing a clearer and more defined sight picture. Target acquisition felt faster and more intuitive, especially when transitioning between targets.
There were no initial issues encountered during the first range session. The sight remained securely mounted and maintained its zero throughout several magazines worth of .45 ACP rounds. I was pleasantly surprised with the immediate improvement in sight clarity and overall shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kensight front sight has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction has shown no signs of wear or corrosion, even after exposure to various weather conditions. Routine cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents has been sufficient to maintain its appearance and performance.
The sight has remained securely mounted, with no loosening or shifting observed. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through my 1911 since installing the Kensight sight, and its performance has remained consistent throughout. I also noticed a consistent zero after multiple cleanings, adding to the peace of mind.
Compared to my previous experiences with other 1911 sights, the Kensight sight has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and glare reduction. It has proven to be a worthwhile investment that has noticeably improved my shooting accuracy and overall enjoyment of the 1911 platform. This has made me more confident in my firearm and ability to defend myself.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight
Specifications
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is meticulously crafted for the 1911 platform. It is machined from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40 for exceptional durability. These features significantly increase the service life of the product.
The sight features a 0.115″ Wide Blade with full serrations to minimize glare. It also has a contoured base designed to seamlessly integrate with round-top or “carry melted” slide profiles. It is designed to fit Novak-type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 Degree x 0.075″), commonly found on customized and factory 1911 pistols.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sight’s performance, durability, and ease of installation. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction ensures long-term reliability, while the serrated blade enhances visibility. The contoured base simplifies installation and provides a clean, professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight excels in its primary function: providing a clear and easily acquired sight picture. The serrated blade effectively reduces glare, making it ideal for bright, sunny conditions. The standard patridge blade design is simple and intuitive, allowing for precise aiming and improved accuracy.
The sight’s strengths lie in its straightforward design, durable construction, and effective glare reduction. One potential area for improvement might be offering different blade widths to cater to individual preferences. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a standard front sight upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight sight boasts a solid build quality, thanks to its 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction. The weight is appropriate for its size, contributing to a stable feel without adding excessive bulk. The contoured base is a thoughtful design element that enhances both aesthetics and ease of installation.
The sight is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special skills or tools for installation. The patridge blade design is familiar and intuitive, with virtually no learning curve. This ensures that even novice shooters can quickly and easily benefit from this upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is built to last. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction and heat-treating process ensure exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents. The durable finish resists corrosion and is easy to wipe clean. The simple design minimizes the risk of damage or malfunction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is a standalone component and does not come with any additional accessories. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Kensight for this particular model, the standard dovetail cut allows for potential compatibility with aftermarket sight pushers for installation.
Its compatibility with the common Novak-type dovetail cut ensures broad compatibility with various 1911 slides. This allows users to select a rear sight that complements the Kensight front sight to achieve their desired sight configuration. Overall, the simplicity and compatibility of this sight promotes user customization through aftermarket options.
Pros and Cons of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight
Pros
- Durable Construction: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Effective Glare Reduction: The serrated patridge blade significantly reduces glare in bright conditions.
- Easy Installation: The contoured base simplifies installation and minimizes fitting requirements.
- Improved Sight Picture: Provides a clear and crisp sight picture for enhanced accuracy.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers excellent value for the price, a cost-effective way to improve your 1911.
Cons
- Limited Customization: No options for different blade widths or fiber optic inserts directly from Kensight.
- Basic Design: The simple patridge blade design may not appeal to those seeking more advanced features.
Who Should Buy Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight?
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is perfect for 1911 owners who are looking for a simple, durable, and effective front sight upgrade that reduces glare and improves sight clarity. It is an excellent choice for target shooters, recreational shooters, and those who carry a 1911 for self-defense. Anyone seeking a cleaner sight picture in bright conditions will appreciate this.
This product may not be suitable for those who prefer fiber optic or tritium sights for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, or those who desire more advanced features such as adjustable height or windage. Those individuals might be better served by exploring other sight options that cater to specific lighting scenarios.
A must-have accessory to complement this sight is a sight pusher tool for proper installation without damaging the sight or slide. Additionally, consider upgrading the rear sight to match the height and style of the Kensight front sight for optimal performance and a cohesive aesthetic.
Conclusion on Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight is a well-made and effective upgrade for any 1911. Its durable construction, glare-reducing serrations, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for shooters of all skill levels. The difference in daylight visibility alone makes it worth the upgrade.
At a price of $23.99, the Kensight sight offers excellent value for its performance and durability. It’s a simple and affordable way to improve your 1911’s accuracy and overall shooting experience. It’s hard to argue against that level of value.
I would highly recommend the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Contoured Base Standard Front Sight to anyone looking for a reliable and effective front sight upgrade. If you value simplicity, durability, and improved sight clarity, this sight is an excellent choice. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference!