First Impressions of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall promises a significant upgrade to the classic 1911 platform, blending the precision of adjustable target sights with the low-light advantage of tritium night sights. As someone deeply entrenched in the world of tactical gear and firearms for over a decade, I’ve always appreciated the 1911’s ergonomics and inherent accuracy. This sight set piqued my interest because it appeared to address the common desire for enhanced sighting solutions in both daytime and nighttime scenarios, all while maintaining the classic Bomar aesthetic.
My journey to this sight set stemmed from a need to improve the accuracy and low-light visibility of my primary 1911. The factory sights were functional, but lacked the fine-tuning capabilities needed for competitive shooting and the confidence-inspiring glow of tritium for home defense. Upon unboxing, the Kensight set immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean lines; the 4140 chrome-moly steel exuded quality. The tritium inserts were bright and evenly illuminated, suggesting excellent visibility in low-light conditions, and the adjustability screws felt precise, hinting at the potential for fine-tuning.
Compared to similar offerings from Trijicon and Meprolight, the Kensight set stood out due to its Bomar-style adjustability coupled with the option of contrasting tritium colors. While Trijicon offers excellent tritium sights, they often lack the precise adjustability desired for target shooting. Meprolight provides robust night sights, but their designs sometimes deviate from the classic 1911 aesthetic.
My initial reaction was one of excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The build quality and features suggested a worthwhile upgrade, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. This sight set promised to bridge the gap between daytime precision and nighttime visibility, and I was ready to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall at my local shooting range, a controlled environment where I could meticulously assess its performance. The weather was mild and sunny, ideal for zeroing the sights and getting a feel for the adjustability. Installation was straightforward, fitting snugly into the existing dovetail slot with minimal gunsmithing required.
The adjustability of the rear sight was immediately apparent and appreciated. I quickly dialed in the elevation and windage to achieve a precise zero at 25 yards. Even in bright daylight, the tritium inserts provided a clear point of reference, enhancing target acquisition. There were no immediate issues, though the higher profile of the adjustable sight took a few magazines to get used to, requiring a slightly modified draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kensight sight set has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. I’ve subjected it to various conditions, including humid summer days and dusty outdoor ranges. The finish has held up remarkably well, with no signs of rust or corrosion, and the tritium inserts remain bright and clear.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning with a soft brush and solvent to remove powder residue. Compared to the original factory sights, the Kensight set represents a significant improvement in both accuracy and visibility. The adjustable rear sight allows me to fine-tune my zero for different ammunition types and distances, while the tritium inserts provide a distinct advantage in low-light scenarios. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, proving to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality. The rear sight blade is wire-EDM cut from a solid bar of 4140 chrome-moly steel, ensuring exceptional strength and precision. This material choice is critical for durability and resistance to wear and tear, especially under the recoil of a 1911.
The set includes a front sight with a Trijicon tritium dot insert and is available with green or yellow 0.076″ Trijicon tritium inserts with a white outline for the rear. The tritium inserts provide excellent low-light visibility, enhancing target acquisition in challenging conditions. The rear sight blade height is 0.200″, but is available in heights from 0.150″ to 0.210″ to accommodate various shooting preferences and ammunition types. The sight set is designed for the 1911 platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall excels in providing both daytime precision and nighttime visibility. The adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing, enabling consistent accuracy at various distances. This adjustability is invaluable for competitive shooters or anyone seeking to optimize their 1911’s performance.
The tritium inserts provide a clear and distinct aiming point in low-light conditions, making it ideal for home defense or tactical applications. A potential weakness is the slightly higher profile of the rear sight, which may require some adjustment to one’s draw stroke. Overall, the sight set meets and exceeds expectations, significantly enhancing the performance of a 1911.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight sight set features a classic Bomar-style design, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the 1911 while adding modern functionality. The 4140 chrome-moly steel construction provides a solid and durable feel, while the precise machining ensures a snug fit. While the higher profile of the adjustable rear sight may take some getting used to, the sight picture is clear and easy to acquire.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive adjustability screws for elevation and windage. There is minimal learning curve, especially for those familiar with Bomar-style sights.
Durability & Maintenance
The 4140 chrome-moly steel construction ensures excellent durability, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. The tritium inserts are well-protected, minimizing the risk of damage. With minimal maintenance, primarily cleaning and occasional lubrication of the adjustment screws, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is primarily a standalone upgrade, focused on improving the sighting system of the 1911. However, its compatibility with standard 1911 dovetail cuts means it can be used in conjunction with other common accessories, such as aftermarket grips and triggers. The availability of different rear sight blade heights allows for some customization to match individual shooting styles and ammunition preferences. The tritium inserts are available in green or yellow, providing further options for personalization.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
Pros
- Exceptional Adjustability: The Bomar-style adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing for different ammunition and distances.
- Enhanced Low-Light Visibility: Trijicon tritium inserts provide a bright and clear aiming point in low-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: The 4140 chrome-moly steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Classic Design: Maintains the aesthetic appeal of the 1911 while adding modern functionality.
- Easy Installation: Fits standard 1911 dovetail cuts with minimal gunsmithing required.
Cons
- Slightly Higher Profile: The adjustable rear sight may require some adjustment to one’s draw stroke.
- Price: At $188.49, it is more expensive than basic fixed night sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall?
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is perfect for competitive shooters, 1911 enthusiasts, and individuals seeking to enhance their pistol’s accuracy and low-light capabilities. It is also ideal for home defense scenarios where visibility is crucial. Those who primarily use their 1911 for concealed carry and prioritize a low profile may want to consider a fixed sight option instead. A must-have accessory for this sight set is a quality gunsmithing punch set for proper installation.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is a worthwhile upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking enhanced accuracy and low-light visibility. The price is justified by the high-quality materials, precise adjustability, and reliable tritium illumination. I would personally recommend this sight set to anyone looking to elevate their 1911’s performance. If you value precision and performance in all lighting conditions, this is the sight set for you – upgrade your 1911 today!