First Impressions of Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is a name that resonates with 1911 enthusiasts looking for enhanced sight acquisition and robust construction. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill sight; Kensight promises a high-quality, wire-EDM cut sight designed for serious use. Its fully serrated blade and distinctive grasping serrations aim to provide a clear and fast sight picture.
My search for this particular sight stemmed from a growing frustration with the factory sights on my competition 1911. The original sights, while functional, lacked the aggressive texture and precise sight picture I needed for quicker target acquisition during rapid-fire drills. I was looking for an upgrade that offered both enhanced visibility and unwavering reliability.
The Kensight sight arrived well-packaged, and upon opening the box, the first thing that struck me was the solid feel of the sight. The black finish was even and appeared durable, while the serrations were sharp and clean, clearly demonstrating the attention to detail in the manufacturing process. It was a clear step up from the MIM sights I’ve seen on other pistols.
Compared to other sights I considered, like the Novak LoMount or the Wilson Combat Tactical Adjustable Rear Sight, the Kensight stood out because of its fixed design and aggressive serrations. While adjustable sights offer greater flexibility, I prioritized durability and a consistent point of impact for my competition gun. The Kensight’s focus on a fixed, robust design and enhanced serrations felt like the right balance.
My initial impression was one of excitement tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation. The sight looked and felt promising, but the real test would come at the range. Would it deliver on its promise of faster, more accurate shooting?
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for late spring: slightly overcast with a light breeze, ideal conditions for dialing in a new sight. I installed the sight on my competition 1911 and immediately noticed the improved sight picture.
The fully serrated blade significantly reduced glare, providing a clearer and more distinct aiming point. Target acquisition was noticeably faster, especially during rapid-fire drills. Even in the slightly overcast conditions, the sight picture remained crisp and easy to see.
I didn’t experience any immediate issues with the sight. The installation was straightforward, and the sight held its zero throughout the initial testing session. The only surprise was how much of an improvement a simple sight change could make in my overall shooting performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and a local pistol competition, the Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the sight itself. The finish remains intact, and the serrations are still sharp and effective.
Cleaning the sight is simple; a quick wipe down with a silicone cloth after each range session is all it takes to keep it in top condition. The sight has held its zero flawlessly, even after hundreds of rounds of .45 ACP. This is a critical factor for me, as consistency is paramount in competitive shooting.
Compared to previous sight upgrades I’ve made on other 1911s, the Kensight has far surpassed my expectations. It offers a superior sight picture, enhanced durability, and unwavering reliability. It has become an indispensable component of my competition setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight
Specifications
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is meticulously crafted with specific design elements. It is wire-EDM cut from a solid block of 4140 chrome moly steel, ensuring exceptional strength and dimensional accuracy. This manufacturing process far surpasses metal injection molding (MIM) or investment casting methods.
The sight features distinctive grasping serrations, crucial for providing a non-slip surface when manipulating the slide. A large relief cut enhances the silhouetted sight picture, making it easier to acquire the target quickly and accurately. It is designed to be compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″), a standard found on many customized and factory 1911 pistols.
The sight set is sold with a 0.160” tall blade, and blade heights ranging from 0.150” to 0.220” are available upon request to fine-tune the point of impact. The black color offers a low-profile and professional appearance. The sight is specifically designed for the 1911 platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight excels in its primary function: providing a clear and easily acquired sight picture. The serrations effectively minimize glare, while the relief cut helps to frame the front sight, leading to faster and more accurate shooting. The fixed design ensures consistent performance, eliminating the possibility of adjustments drifting over time.
The sight’s strength lies in its simplicity and robustness. There are no intricate mechanisms to fail, and the solid steel construction can withstand the rigors of frequent use. One potential drawback is the lack of adjustability, which may require selecting the correct blade height for optimal zeroing with different ammunition.
Overall, the Kensight meets and exceeds expectations for a fixed rear sight. It offers a significant improvement over factory sights in terms of visibility, durability, and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is a testament to functional design. The use of 4140 steel ensures exceptional durability, while the serrations provide a secure gripping surface when racking the slide. The sight’s weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the pistol.
The sight’s design is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills for installation. The sight picture is intuitive, making it easy to adapt to, even for those accustomed to different sight designs. The low-profile design minimizes snagging on clothing or gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from solid 4140 steel, the Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is built to last. The black finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring long-term durability. With proper care, this sight should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The sight’s robust construction means there are no small parts to break or replace. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of upgrade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is a standalone product and does not come with additional accessories. However, its compatibility with Novak-style dovetail cuts means it can be paired with a wide range of aftermarket front sights. Different blade heights are available from Kensight, allowing for fine-tuning of the pistol’s zero.
While there are no direct customization options for the rear sight itself, the user can choose from a vast selection of front sights to create a personalized sighting system. Common choices include fiber optic, tritium, and serrated blades. Selecting the right front sight is crucial for achieving optimal sight alignment and target acquisition.
Pros and Cons of Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Crafted from solid 4140 steel, this sight is built to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.
Cons
- Lack of Adjustability: The fixed design may require selecting a specific blade height to achieve optimal zeroing with different ammunition.
Enhanced Sight Picture: The fully serrated blade minimizes glare, while the relief cut helps to frame the front sight for faster target acquisition.
Easy Installation: The sight is designed to fit Novak-style dovetail cuts, making installation straightforward and hassle-free.
Consistent Performance: The fixed design ensures unwavering reliability and eliminates the possibility of adjustments drifting over time.
Improved Accuracy: By providing a clearer and more distinct aiming point, this sight can significantly improve shooting accuracy.
May Require Gunsmithing: Although designed for easy install, fitting may require minor filing by a gunsmith for tight-tolerance 1911s.
Who Should Buy Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight?
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who relies on their 1911 for self-defense. Its robust construction, enhanced sight picture, and unwavering reliability make it an ideal upgrade for those who demand peak performance from their firearms. If you’re looking for a simple, durable, and effective sight upgrade, this is it.
This sight might not be the best choice for casual plinkers or those who prefer adjustable sights for maximum versatility. Shooters who frequently change ammunition types may find the fixed design limiting, as different loads may require different blade heights for optimal zeroing. Also, beginners might prefer adjustable sights to learn about sighting and zeroing.
A must-have modification is pairing this rear sight with a high-quality front sight.
Conclusion on Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight
The Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight is a no-nonsense upgrade that delivers on its promises. It offers exceptional durability, enhanced visibility, and unwavering reliability, all at a reasonable price. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve the performance of their 1911.
At $62.26, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the noticeable improvement in shooting performance. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can have a significant impact on accuracy and target acquisition speed. It is worth every penny for the serious shooter.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight DFS Fully Serrated Sight Blade Fixed Rear 1911 Sight to anyone looking for a robust, reliable, and performance-enhancing sight upgrade. Ditch those factory sights and experience the difference a quality sight can make. Upgrade your 1911 today!