First Impressions of Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin might seem like an insignificant part, but it’s a crucial component for maintaining the functionality and reliability of your Kensight Defensive Adjustable Sight (DAS). As someone who relies on their 1911 for both recreational shooting and, occasionally, more serious applications, a broken or damaged hinge pin can render the rear sight useless. That is why I was interested in finding a replacement that had great reliability and the backing of a well-established manufacturer.
My adjustable rear sight on my competition 1911 became loose after many hundreds of rounds downrange, and I suspected that the hinge pin was the culprit. Having a dependable 1911 is paramount and I needed a replacement part that I could trust. I was looking for a high-quality, readily available replacement part to ensure the sight remained properly secured to my slide.
Upon receiving the Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The pin felt solid and well-machined, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of regular use. It was noticeably more substantial than the worn-out pin it was replacing, which gave me the impression that it would be much more robust.
While there are some generic hinge pins available on the market, I chose the Kensight replacement because I wanted to ensure compatibility with my Kensight sight and maintain the original factory specifications. There is peace of mind that comes with buying from a reputable manufacturer like Kensight. My initial impression was positive, with the pin appearing to be a well-made, high-quality replacement part.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin at my local shooting range, where I routinely practice with my 1911. Installing the pin was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a small punch. With the pin securely in place, the rear sight felt noticeably more stable. The new pin eliminated the wobble that had been plaguing my shots, allowing for more consistent and accurate aiming.
During my initial range session, I fired approximately 200 rounds through my 1911. The conditions were relatively mild, with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and no significant wind. The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin performed flawlessly, maintaining its position and showing no signs of loosening or deformation. The ease of installation and immediate improvement in sight stability was a welcome surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin has continued to perform admirably. I’ve put several thousand rounds downrange since installing the new pin, and it remains as secure as the day I installed it. There are no signs of wear and tear, even after frequent adjustments to the rear sight.
I clean my 1911 after every range session, and the hinge pin requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with generic replacement parts, the Kensight pin has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin
Specifications
- The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is specifically designed as a replacement for the hinge pin on Kensight Defensive Adjustable Sights (DAS or Novak) for 1911 pistols. This ensures proper fit and function with the intended sight system.
- The pin measures 0.576 inches in length and 0.078 inches in diameter. These precise dimensions are critical for ensuring a secure and stable fit within the sight assembly.
- The pin is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, a material known for its high strength, durability, and resistance to wear. This material choice ensures that the pin can withstand the stresses of repeated firing and sight adjustments.
- The finish is black, which helps to prevent corrosion and blends seamlessly with the overall appearance of the sight. The black finish also helps to reduce glare, which can be beneficial in bright shooting conditions.
- It is designed for use with the 1911 platform. This pin is specifically engineered to work with 1911 pistols equipped with Kensight DAS adjustable rear sights.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin performs its job exceptionally well. This is a simple, but critical part of a pistol. The pin provides a secure and stable pivot point for the adjustable rear sight, ensuring that it remains firmly in place during firing. This stability is essential for maintaining accuracy and consistency.
The strength and precise dimensions of the pin mean that the sight retains its zero even after numerous rounds and adjustments. The high-quality materials ensure that the pin does not deform or wear down over time, providing long-lasting reliability. The primary weakness is that it is only compatible with Kensight sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is simple yet effective. It is engineered to be a direct replacement for the original hinge pin, ensuring a perfect fit and easy installation. The pin is small and unobtrusive, blending seamlessly with the overall design of the sight.
The pin’s smooth finish and precise dimensions contribute to the overall ease of use of the adjustable rear sight. There is no learning curve associated with this product, as it simply replaces the existing pin.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is built to last. Constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, it can withstand the stresses of repeated firing and sight adjustments without showing signs of wear. The pin’s black finish helps to protect against corrosion, further extending its lifespan.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe with a lightly oiled cloth to keep it in good condition. The pin’s robust construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure that it will provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is a direct replacement part and does not come with any additional accessories. Because it is a small component, there are no direct customization options. However, ensuring that your adjustable rear sight is properly secured with a high-quality hinge pin like this one allows you to take full advantage of any other sight customization options you may have, such as different blade styles or fiber optic inserts.
Pros and Cons of Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin
Pros
- Provides a secure and stable pivot point for the adjustable rear sight.
- Constructed from durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel for long-lasting reliability.
- Direct replacement part, ensuring a perfect fit and easy installation.
- Helps maintain accuracy and consistency by preventing sight wobble.
- Simple design with minimal maintenance requirements.
Cons
- Only compatible with Kensight Defensive Adjustable Sights (DAS or Novak).
- May not be necessary if the original hinge pin is still in good condition.
Who Should Buy Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin?
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is perfect for 1911 owners who have Kensight Defensive Adjustable Sights (DAS or Novak) installed on their pistols and need to replace a broken or worn-out hinge pin. It is a must-have for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and anyone who relies on their 1911 for personal defense. Anyone who values maintaining the original factory specifications of their Kensight sight will also appreciate this replacement part.
If your original hinge pin is still in good condition and you are not experiencing any issues with your rear sight, then you may not need this product. Also, individuals with adjustable rear sights from other manufacturers (non-Kensight) should skip this product.
Conclusion on Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin
The Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin is a simple yet essential component for maintaining the functionality and reliability of your Kensight Defensive Adjustable Sight. Its robust construction, precise dimensions, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for any 1911 owner who values accuracy and consistency.
At $4.99, the price is more than justified, considering the quality of materials and the peace of mind that comes with using a Kensight product. This is a very minor price to pay to guarantee that my Kensight sight is in top performing condition. I highly recommend the Kensight DAS Adjustable Rear 1911 Sight Hinge Pin to anyone in need of a reliable replacement for their adjustable rear sight. Don’t let a broken hinge pin compromise your shooting performance—invest in this high-quality replacement and keep your 1911 running smoothly.