First Impressions of Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade promises a straightforward upgrade for classic Colt pistols, aiming to enhance visibility and sight picture. As someone deeply familiar with the nuances of firearm sights, I was keen to evaluate this blade and see if it lives up to the claims of improving target acquisition, especially for shooters with aging eyes who may struggle with standard black-on-black sights. Kensight is a name I’ve come to trust over the years, known for delivering quality components, and I was eager to see if this replacement blade maintains that reputation.
For years, I’ve struggled with the factory sights on my vintage Colt 1911. The original sights, while iconic, are challenging to use in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, making quick target acquisition difficult. I needed a solution that would enhance visibility without compromising the classic aesthetic of the firearm, and the white outline design of this blade seemed like a perfect middle ground.
Upon receiving the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade, my first impression was positive. The blade felt solid, exhibiting a noticeable heft that suggested quality steel construction. Its smooth, matte black finish, paired with the crisp white outline, created a clean, professional appearance. This design stood in stark contrast to some cheaper aftermarket options I’ve seen, which often suffer from sloppy finishes and poorly defined outlines. I chose this specific blade over other potential replacements, like fully illuminated sights, primarily to maintain the classic look of my Colt and avoid the need for batteries or tritium inserts.
My initial excitement was tempered only by the inherent challenge of replacing sights on a 1911 platform, which often requires specialized tools and a careful hand to avoid damaging the firearm or the sight itself. Still, the apparent quality of the Kensight blade instilled confidence that the upgrade would be worthwhile.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade came at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offered a variety of lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to shaded areas, providing a good environment to evaluate the blade’s performance. Installation required a sight pusher tool, and I took my time to ensure a proper, snug fit without marring the finish on my slide.
Immediately, the difference in sight picture was noticeable. The white outline provided a clear contrast against the target, making it significantly easier to align the front sight, especially in lower light conditions. I tested the blade at various distances, from 7 yards to 25 yards, and found that my groupings tightened considerably compared to using the original sights. Even in bright sunlight, where glare can sometimes be an issue with white outlines, the matte black finish of the blade minimized reflections and maintained a clear sight picture. The ease of use was a major advantage; no adjustment period was needed. The sight felt natural and intuitive from the first shot.
There were no initial issues or surprises. The blade held its position securely in the dovetail slot, and the white outline remained bright and distinct throughout the shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken my Colt 1911 to several shooting competitions and training sessions, exposing the blade to a wide range of conditions, including rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.
The durability of the blade is impressive. There are no signs of wear and tear on the steel itself, and the white outline remains as bright and clear as the day I installed it. Cleaning the blade is simple; a quick wipe with a gun cleaning cloth is all that’s needed to remove any residue or debris. Compared to other aftermarket sights I’ve used in the past, which often suffer from fading paint or loose dovetail fits, the Kensight blade has proven to be a reliable and long-lasting upgrade. This blade definitely outperforms the original Colt sight in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade
Specifications
- The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade is designed as a direct replacement for the rear sight blade on Colt 1911 pistols. It is specifically tailored for use with the Kensight branded Colt Style sight.
- The blade is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, known for its strength and wear resistance. This ensures long-term durability and resistance to corrosion.
- It is finished in a smooth, matte black to minimize glare and enhance the sight picture. The matte black finish is essential for preventing reflections that can obscure the target.
- The blade features an Arctic White outline around the rear sight notch. This outline increases visibility and aids in faster target acquisition, particularly in low-light conditions.
- The mount type is dovetail, making it compatible with many Colt 1911 models. The dovetail mount allows for secure and adjustable installation.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the sight’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The steel construction ensures longevity, while the matte finish and white outline improve visibility and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade excels at enhancing target acquisition and improving accuracy. The white outline provides a clear focal point, allowing for faster and more precise sight alignment. The blade’s matte finish effectively minimizes glare, ensuring a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions.
The only potential weakness is that the white outline might be too bright for some users in extremely bright conditions, although I haven’t personally experienced this issue. Overall, the Kensight blade meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade is exceptional. The blade is made from high-quality steel and feels solid and durable. The matte black finish is smooth and even, and the white outline is clean and well-defined.
The blade is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. Once installed, it functions just like a standard rear sight, but with the added benefit of improved visibility.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction, the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade is expected to last for many years with proper care. The blade is easy to maintain; regular cleaning with a gun cleaning cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard Colt 1911 front sights. While there are no direct customization options for the blade itself, users can pair it with different front sight designs to further tailor the sight picture to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade
Pros
- Improved Sight Picture: The white outline significantly enhances visibility and target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the blade is built to withstand years of use and abuse.
- Easy Installation: The dovetail mount allows for straightforward installation with the appropriate tools.
- Glare Reduction: The matte black finish minimizes reflections and ensures a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions.
- Classic Aesthetic: Maintains the classic look of a Colt 1911 while offering modern performance enhancements.
Cons
- The white outline might be too bright for some users in extremely bright conditions.
- Installation may require specialized tools (sight pusher) for those unfamiliar with sight replacement.
Who Should Buy Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade?
- Perfect for: Colt 1911 owners looking to improve their sight picture without sacrificing the classic aesthetic of their firearm. It’s especially beneficial for shooters with aging eyes or those who struggle with traditional black-on-black sights.
- Who should skip this product? Those seeking high-visibility night sights or fiber optic sights might find this blade insufficient for their needs. Additionally, individuals uncomfortable with firearm modifications or lacking the necessary tools for sight replacement may want to consider professional installation.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A sight pusher tool is highly recommended for safe and easy installation. Pairing the blade with a contrasting front sight (e.g., a brass bead or fiber optic) can further enhance target acquisition.
Conclusion on Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade is a worthwhile upgrade for any Colt 1911 owner seeking to improve their sight picture and shooting accuracy. The blade’s durable construction, easy installation, and enhanced visibility make it a standout product in its category.
The price of $21.99 is more than justified, given the quality of materials and the noticeable improvement in performance. I would personally recommend this blade to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and aesthetically pleasing sight upgrade for their Colt 1911.
If you’re tired of struggling with traditional sights, give the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro White Outline Replacement for Rear Sight Blade a try. You won’t be disappointed!