Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight Review

First Impressions of Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight

The Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight promises to be a significant upgrade for AK-74 owners seeking enhanced accuracy and adjustability over the standard iron sights. Kensight touts its sights as “The Professional’s Choice,” crafted from high-quality materials with precise machining. I’ve always been frustrated with the coarse adjustments of the stock AK sights, particularly when trying to zero at various distances, so the promise of click-adjustable windage and fiber optic inserts immediately caught my attention.

I needed a solution for fine-tuning my AK-74’s zero, especially when using different ammunition types. The original tangent sights, while robust, lack the precision I desire for consistent accuracy at varying ranges. Several other adjustable AK rear sights are available, but I chose the Kensight due to its reputation for quality and the use of Wire-EDM machining, which suggests tighter tolerances.

Unboxing the Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight, I was immediately struck by the solid feel of the sight and the quality of the finish. It has a reassuring heft that speaks to the 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction. Compared to the stamped steel of the original sight, the Kensight offering feels like a substantial improvement.

Side-by-side with a stock AK-74 rear sight, the Kensight is noticeably more refined. The adjustment knobs appear robust and the fiber optic inserts are bright and clear. I chose this sight over cheaper options from lesser-known manufacturers because I value reliability and precision in my firearms accessories.

My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. I’m eager to see if the Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight lives up to its promise of enhanced accuracy and ease of adjustment on the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offers distances from 25 to 200 yards, perfect for evaluating the sight’s adjustability and impact on accuracy. Initial testing was done on a sunny day with a slight crosswind.

Installation was straightforward, requiring only a punch and hammer to drift out the old sight and install the Kensight. The dovetail fit was snug and secure, requiring a few taps to center. Zeroing at 100 yards proved significantly easier than with the stock sight; the click-adjustable windage allowed for precise corrections, and the fiber optic inserts provided a clear and bright sight picture even in bright sunlight.

After the first few magazines, I noticed a considerable improvement in my group sizes at 100 yards compared to using the original sight. The ease of adjustment made dialing in the zero for my preferred ammunition much less frustrating. No issues arose during the initial range session, and the sight felt solid and secure throughout.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight continues to perform admirably. I have used it in various weather conditions, including rain and cold temperatures, with no degradation in performance. The finish remains intact, with no signs of rust or significant wear, which speaks to the quality of the 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction.

Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. The adjustment knobs remain tight and retain their zero even after repeated firing. Compared to my previous experiences with AK iron sights, the Kensight offering provides a level of precision and reliability that I previously thought unattainable.

The Kensight has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. Its durability and ease of use have significantly improved my shooting experience with my AK-74.

Breaking Down the Features of Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight

Specifications

• The Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight is designed specifically for original Soviet AK-74 pattern rifles. It replicates the 100M to 1000M graduations found on the original tangent rear sight.
• It’s constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel for durability and precision. The sight features click-adjustable windage and is fitted with fiber optic inserts for enhanced visibility.

These specifications are crucial for performance. The steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear, while the click-adjustable windage enables precise zeroing.

Performance & Functionality

The Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight excels in its ability to provide a precise and repeatable sight picture. The click-adjustable windage allows for fine-tuning the zero with ease. The fiber optic inserts significantly improve visibility in various lighting conditions, making target acquisition faster and more efficient.

The primary strength is the adjustability and improved sight picture. The only potential weakness is that the fiber optic inserts could be vulnerable to damage in extreme conditions, although they have held up well in my testing.

The sight exceeded my expectations. I found zeroing and maintaining accuracy at different ranges to be far simpler and more consistent than with the stock sights.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight is designed to closely resemble the original AK-74 rear sight, maintaining the rifle’s classic aesthetics. The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable finish.

The sight is relatively easy to install and use, requiring minimal gunsmithing skills. The adjustment knobs are easily accessible and provide tactile feedback with each click, confirming adjustments.

Durability & Maintenance

The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction suggests excellent longevity. The sight has already withstood several months of regular use without any signs of significant wear or degradation.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only periodic cleaning and lubrication of the adjustment knobs. The sight is designed for easy field stripping and cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight itself does not require additional accessories for basic functionality. However, the enhanced visibility of the fiber optic inserts pairs well with an upgraded front sight post, also with fiber optic, for a complete sighting system upgrade.

The dovetail mount is standard for AK-74 rifles, ensuring compatibility with various aftermarket front sights designed for the platform. There are no additional customization options for the sight itself, but it integrates seamlessly with other common AK accessories.

Pros and Cons of Kensight AK-74 Adjustable Tangent Rear Sight