Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set Review

First Impressions of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set

The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set promises an upgrade in visibility and accuracy for Kimber 1911 owners looking to enhance their fixed sight pistols. Kensight aims to provide a robust, easily acquired sight picture with this combination of a serrated rear sight and fiber optic front sight. This review will delve into the practicalities of this sight set, assessing its performance, durability, and value for the everyday shooter and tactical enthusiast alike.

I’ve always been a proponent of clear and quick target acquisition, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. The factory sights on my Kimber were functional, but lacked the immediacy and visibility I desired, particularly in varying lighting conditions. I was searching for a sight system that offered both enhanced visibility and a clean, uncluttered sight picture.

Upon unboxing the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set, I immediately noted the robust feel of the 4140 steel construction. The black finish appeared durable and evenly applied, giving a sense of quality craftsmanship. Compared to the standard, plain black sights, the Kensight set seemed like a significant upgrade in terms of both form and function.

While several fiber optic sight sets were available, I chose the Kensight offering because of its reputation for precision machining and durable construction. Many cheaper options on the market suffer from fragile fiber optic elements or poorly fitted dovetails, so I opted for what I perceived to be a higher-quality, more reliable solution. Initial impressions were positive, and I was eager to install the set and see how it performed on the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range under bright, sunny conditions. I installed the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set on my Kimber Custom II 1911, a relatively straightforward process thanks to the precise machining of the dovetails. The bright fiber optic front sight immediately jumped out, offering a high-contrast aiming point against the black serrated rear.

The enhanced visibility was particularly noticeable when transitioning between targets, and I found my sight acquisition time significantly reduced. I also tested the sights during a late afternoon session as the sun started to set. The fiber optic rod still gathered enough light to provide a usable sight picture, although it wasn’t as brilliant as under direct sunlight.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set has proven to be remarkably durable. The 4140 steel construction has resisted scratches and wear, even after repeated holster draws and range sessions. Regular cleaning with a nylon brush and solvent has kept the sights free from fouling and maintained their original appearance.

There has been no noticeable shift in point of impact, indicating the sights are securely held in place by the dovetail. Compared to other sight sets I’ve used in the past, the Kensight offering stands out for its combination of durability, visibility, and consistent performance. This sight set has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a worthwhile upgrade for my Kimber 1911.

Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set

Specifications

• The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set is designed specifically for Kimber 1911 pistols with factory-supplied fixed sights, using the Kimber dovetail cut. It is important to note that these sights will NOT fit Kimbers with factory adjustable sights.
• The rear sight is wire-EDM cut from a single block of 4140 chrome moly steel for exceptional precision and durability. This manufacturing process ensures tight tolerances and a consistent fit.
• The rear sight blade notch measures 0.136″ (W) x 0.102″ (D), providing a comfortable and easily acquired sight picture. This notch size is optimized for both speed and precision.
• The front sight is also wire-EDM machined from 4140 chrome moly steel and heat treated to a hardness of RC 38-40. This heat treatment provides exceptional wear resistance and longevity.
• The front sight blade is 0.100” wide and partially serrated to reduce glare and improve sight acquisition in bright light. The serrations minimize distractions and allow for a clearer focus on the target.
• The front sight features a 0.060” diameter fiber optic rod, shielded for enhanced durability and visibility. The fiber optic rod gathers ambient light, providing a bright aiming point in various lighting conditions.
• The front sight dovetail cut is compatible with Novak type front sight dovetails (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″). This compatibility makes the front sight a versatile option for various 1911 platforms beyond just Kimbers.
• The set is finished in black to match the factory finish of most 1911 pistols. This black finish also helps to reduce glare and provides a consistent sight picture.

Performance & Functionality

The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set drastically improves target acquisition and overall shooting accuracy, especially in less-than-ideal lighting. The high-visibility fiber optic front sight naturally draws the eye, allowing for faster and more precise aiming.

While the serrated rear sight effectively reduces glare, some shooters might prefer a fully adjustable rear sight for precise zeroing at different distances. However, for a fixed sight system, the Kensight set performs admirably, providing a consistent point of impact at typical handgun engagement ranges. Overall, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set meets and exceeds expectations for a fixed sight upgrade.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set features a robust and functional design, with particular attention paid to durability and ease of use. The 4140 steel construction gives the sights a substantial feel, and the precisely machined dovetails ensure a secure and stable fit.

There is minimal learning curve associated with using these sights, as they offer a simple and intuitive sight picture. The fiber optic front sight immediately enhances visibility, and the serrated rear sight reduces glare, contributing to a more comfortable and effective shooting experience.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 4140 chrome moly steel construction and heat treatment, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set is built to last. The black finish is resistant to scratches and wear, and the fiber optic rod is well-protected against impact.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a nylon brush and solvent to remove fouling and debris. With proper care, the Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set does not come with any additional accessories beyond the front and rear sights themselves. However, the Novak-compatible front sight dovetail allows for the use of aftermarket front sights with different fiber optic colors or tritium inserts.

While the rear sight is not adjustable, the user could potentially drift the sight left or right within the dovetail for minor windage adjustments. Ultimately, the focus of this sight set is on providing a durable and highly visible fixed sight solution, rather than offering extensive customization options.

Pros and Cons of Kensight Kimber Serrated Blade Flat Sight Set