First Impressions of Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade promises a significant upgrade to the standard Kimber adjustable sights. Kensight is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for producing high-quality, durable sights. This particular set aims to provide enhanced accuracy and sight acquisition with its rounded, fully serrated blade and fiber optic front sight. After years of struggling with factory sights, I was eager to see if this set lived up to the hype.
My aging eyes were beginning to struggle with the stock sights on my Kimber 1911. I needed an upgrade that would provide better visibility and ease of adjustment. I was particularly drawn to the fiber optic front sight for its promise of rapid target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
The sights arrived well-packaged and protected. My initial impression was positive, noting the solid construction and clean machining of the steel. The rounded blade of the rear sight and the bright fiber optic rod on the front sight were immediately appealing.
I considered the Trijicon HD Night Sights and the XS Sights Big Dot sights. I ultimately chose the Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade due to its adjustability and the combination of a traditional sight picture with modern fiber optic technology. I was hoping for a balance of precision and rapid target acquisition.
Overall, I was excited to install these sights and test their performance. The build quality seemed excellent, and the design appeared well-thought-out. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping that these sights would deliver on their promises of improved accuracy and visibility.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility with varying lighting conditions. I ran several drills focusing on target acquisition, accuracy at different distances (7, 15, and 25 yards), and sight adjustment. The conditions ranged from bright sunlight to overcast skies.
The sights were surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. The bright fiber optic front sight immediately drew my eye to the target, making sight acquisition much faster than with my old sights. Adjusting the rear sight for windage and elevation was straightforward, allowing me to quickly zero the pistol at 15 yards.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The sights held their zero, and the fiber optic rod remained securely in place. The most pleasant surprise was the improved sight picture, which made it easier to achieve tighter groupings.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade has held up exceptionally well. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through my Kimber 1911 since installing these sights. The sights have proven to be both durable and reliable.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the steel components. The fiber optic rod remains bright and undamaged. I have made minor adjustments to the rear sight to compensate for different ammunition types, but the adjustments have remained consistent and predictable.
Maintaining the sights is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each range session is usually sufficient. I occasionally use a small brush to remove any debris from the serrations on the rear blade. Compared to my previous sight setups, the Kensight set has significantly improved my shooting accuracy and confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade
Specifications
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade is designed as a drop-in replacement for factory adjustable sights on Kimber 1911 pistols. The rear sight features a rounded, fully serrated blade to reduce glare and improve sight acquisition. It is wire-EDM machined from 4140 chrome moly steel and heat treated to a hardness of RC 38-40 for maximum durability.
The front sight has a contoured base with a bright fiber optic rod that draws the shooter’s eye to the front post. The fiber optic rod is 0.060 inches in diameter and well-shielded for enhanced visibility. The front sight blade is 0.100 inches wide and partially serrated. The sight is compatible with Novak-type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″).
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sight’s durability, visibility, and ease of use. The high-quality steel and heat treatment ensure the sights can withstand the rigors of regular use. The fiber optic front sight significantly improves visibility in low-light conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing, ensuring accuracy at various distances. The combination of the rounded rear blade and fiber optic front sight provides a clear and easily acquired sight picture.
The sight’s greatest strength is its enhanced visibility and adjustability. The fiber optic rod is bright and easy to see in a wide range of lighting conditions. One potential area for improvement would be offering different color options for the fiber optic rod.
The sights definitely meet my expectations, providing a significant improvement over the factory sights. The increased accuracy and ease of use have boosted my confidence on the range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the machining is precise. The sights feel solid and well-made in hand.
The rounded blade on the rear sight is a thoughtful design choice, minimizing glare and providing a comfortable sight picture. There is virtually no learning curve. The sights are intuitive and easy to use from the moment they are installed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade is built to last. The 4140 chrome moly steel construction ensures that the sights can withstand years of use. With proper care, these sights should last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning. The fiber optic rod is well-protected, minimizing the risk of damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade does not come with any additional accessories beyond the sights themselves. The primary customization option is the ability to adjust the rear sight for windage and elevation. This allows the shooter to fine-tune the sight to their preferred ammunition and shooting style.
The sights are compatible with any 1911 pistol that uses a Novak-type front sight dovetail cut. This makes them compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as different height front sights or alternative fiber optic rod colors (if sourced separately). The ability to swap out the fiber optic rod allows users to customize the sight picture to their preference.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade
Pros
- Enhanced Visibility: The fiber optic front sight provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, making target acquisition faster and easier.
- Adjustability: The adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing, ensuring accuracy at different distances.
- Durability: The 4140 chrome moly steel construction and heat treatment ensure that the sights can withstand years of use.
- Easy Installation: The sights are designed as a drop-in replacement for factory adjustable sights, making installation relatively simple.
- Improved Accuracy: The combination of a clear sight picture and precise adjustability leads to improved shooting accuracy.
Cons
- Fiber Optic Rod Vulnerability: While shielded, the fiber optic rod could potentially be damaged under extreme conditions.
- Price: At $122.71, it is more expensive than some basic fixed sight options.
Who Should Buy Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade?
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade is perfect for Kimber 1911 owners looking to improve their shooting accuracy and sight acquisition speed. It is particularly well-suited for competitive shooters, those with aging eyes, or anyone who frequently shoots in varying lighting conditions. The adjustability makes it ideal for shooters who want to fine-tune their sights for different ammunition types or shooting distances.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer basic, non-adjustable sights or those on a very tight budget. If ultimate durability in extreme conditions is a primary concern, fixed steel sights might be a better option.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality sight pusher tool to ensure proper installation without damaging the sights or slide.
Conclusion on Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade
The Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade is a worthwhile upgrade for any Kimber 1911 owner seeking improved accuracy and sight visibility. The combination of a durable steel construction, adjustable rear sight, and bright fiber optic front sight makes this set a standout performer. The price of $122.71 is justified by the quality of materials and the enhanced shooting experience.
I would highly recommend this sight set to anyone looking to upgrade their Kimber 1911. The improved accuracy, ease of use, and overall build quality make it an excellent investment. Upgrade your Kimber 1911 today with the Kensight Kimber Adjustable Sight Set Rounded Blade and experience the difference!