First Impressions of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is a drop-in replacement front sight designed to enhance the sight picture on your 1911 pistol. Kensight is known for producing high-quality, durable sights, and this one promises improved clarity and reduced glare thanks to its serrated patridge blade. This front sight caters to the classic needs of 1911 enthusiasts.
For years, I’ve struggled with glare on my 1911’s factory front sight, particularly during bright, sunny days at the range. I was searching for a simple, effective solution to improve my accuracy and overall shooting experience. This Kensight sight seemed like the perfect fit, promising a clear sight picture without excessive frills.
Upon receiving the sight, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the serrations on the blade were crisp and even. Its weight felt substantial, suggesting quality steel.
I considered other options, including fiber optic sights and tritium inserts. I chose the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight because of its traditional design and emphasis on glare reduction. This aligned with my preference for a simple, uncluttered sight picture.
My first impression was positive – I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to its promise of improved clarity and accuracy. The build quality and design suggested it would be a worthwhile upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight at an outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. This environment was ideal for evaluating its glare-reducing properties. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a sight pusher tool and a few minutes of my time.
The serrated patridge blade provided a noticeably clearer sight picture compared to my original sight. The glare was significantly reduced, making it easier to focus on the target. Even in direct sunlight, I could maintain a crisp, well-defined sight picture.
I experienced no immediate issues and was impressed with the immediate improvement in visibility. This sight was very easy to adapt to and provided me with accurate shot placement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight continues to perform flawlessly. It shows no signs of wear and tear, despite repeated exposure to cleaning solvents and holster friction. The sight remains securely mounted in the dovetail.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a gun cleaning cloth removes any residue. The matte finish has held up well, resisting scratches and maintaining its clean appearance. The steel construction gives me great confidence.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket sights, the Kensight sight has been significantly more reliable and durable. It has greatly enhanced my accuracy and is one of the best modifications I’ve made to my 1911.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight
Specifications
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is specifically designed for the 1911 platform. It features a .115″ wide serrated blade, which offers a clear and precise sight picture. The sight is Wire-EDM machined from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40, ensuring strength and durability.
The sight’s flat base is designed to blend seamlessly with most square-top slide profiles. It utilizes a Novak-type front sight dovetail cut (0.330″ x 65 Degree x 0.075″), making it compatible with a wide range of 1911 pistols. These specifications are critical because they ensure compatibility, durability, and a clear, glare-free sight picture.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight excels at providing a clear and consistent sight picture, especially in bright conditions. The serrated blade effectively reduces glare, making it easier to acquire and maintain focus on the target. Accuracy is noticeably improved because of the clear sight alignment.
The sight’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no unnecessary features or adjustments, just a well-designed blade that performs its function admirably. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a traditional front sight.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight’s all-steel construction provides a solid and reliable feel. Its weight is substantial enough to inspire confidence without adding unnecessary bulk to the pistol. The flat base design blends well with the 1911’s slide, creating a visually appealing and functional upgrade.
The sight is very user-friendly; even inexperienced shooters will appreciate the improved visibility and accuracy. The installation process is fairly straightforward, and there’s no significant learning curve required to use the sight effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from heat-treated 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is built to last. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a standard gun cleaning kit is all that’s needed to keep the sight in top condition. The durable finish resists corrosion and wear, ensuring years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is primarily a standalone upgrade, and it doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, it is compatible with various rear sights, allowing users to further customize their sight system.
While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options itself, it serves as a solid foundation for building a personalized 1911. Its compatibility with standard dovetail cuts means it can be paired with a wide range of aftermarket rear sights from various brands.
Pros and Cons of Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight
Pros
- The serrated patridge blade significantly reduces glare, providing a clear and crisp sight picture in bright conditions. This is a huge benefit for outdoor shooting.
- Made from heat-treated 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the sight is incredibly durable and built to withstand years of use. This provides long-term value.
- The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight offers a clean, traditional look that complements the classic 1911 design. The flat base integrates seamlessly with square-top slides.
- Utilizing a standard Novak-type dovetail cut ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911 pistols. This simplifies installation.
- The improved sight picture translates directly into increased accuracy, making it easier to acquire and maintain focus on the target. This results in tighter groupings.
Cons
- While the flat base blends well with many slides, some fitting may be required for a perfect match. Some filing is needed for a truly seamless look.
- The design is fairly basic. Those seeking more advanced features like fiber optics or tritium inserts will need to look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight?
The Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize a clear, glare-free sight picture in bright conditions. This is a great choice for target shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who appreciates a traditional sight design. It is also good for those who want to improve their accuracy without overly complex modifications.
If you’re seeking advanced features like night sights or fiber optics, this sight might not be the best choice for you. Also, if you’re uncomfortable with basic gunsmithing, you may want to have a professional install the sight.
A sight pusher tool is a must-have for easy installation. A set of fine files can be helpful for achieving a seamless fit with the slide.
Conclusion on Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight
Overall, the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight is an excellent upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking improved clarity and accuracy. Its durable construction, glare-reducing design, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $25.99 is more than justified considering the quality and performance of the sight. It is a simple, effective upgrade that delivers tangible benefits on the range.
I would highly recommend the Kensight 1911 Serrated Patridge Blade Flat Base Standard Front Sight to anyone looking to enhance their 1911’s sight system. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference a clear, glare-free sight picture can make!