First Impressions of Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight aims to enhance target acquisition in both daylight and low-light conditions for 1911 platforms. Kensight combines a serrated blade, tritium illumination, and an elevation-adjustable design in this sight. It promises improved accuracy and faster target engagement, making it an appealing upgrade for both defensive and sport shooting.
My aging eyes and need for quicker target acquisition during low-light training scenarios led me to explore night sight options. I was specifically seeking a rear sight that offered both tritium illumination and elevation adjustability. This would help fine-tune my point of impact and improve visibility in challenging lighting.
Upon unboxing, the sight impressed me with its solid construction and clean lines. The black 4140 chrome moly steel exuded durability, and the serrated blade looked aggressive and functional. The tritium dots were bright, even in moderate lighting, sparking anticipation for testing in darker conditions.
I considered the Trijicon HD Night Sights and the Novak LoMount Adjustable Night Sights. I chose the Kensight due to its combination of features, purported ease of installation, and positive user feedback regarding its adjustability and brightness. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – hoping the sight would live up to its promises on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight installed was at an outdoor range during a cloudy afternoon. I mounted the sight on my Colt 1911 using a gunsmith to ensure proper fitting. The sight picture was immediately improved, with the serrated blade reducing glare.
The tritium dots were easily visible even in the overcast conditions, offering a clear aiming point. Adjusting the elevation was straightforward using a small screwdriver. After a few magazines, I achieved a zero at 15 yards, noticeably improving my group sizes.
One minor surprise was the initial stiffness of the elevation adjustment screw, requiring a bit more force than expected. However, after a few adjustments, it became smoother. I experienced no other issues during the first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. The finish has held up well despite regular use and cleaning. There are no signs of wear or corrosion.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent. The tritium dots remain bright and clear, maintaining excellent visibility in low-light situations. The sight has consistently delivered accurate and repeatable adjustments.
Compared to my previous fixed sights, the Kensight offers a significant improvement in both accuracy and visibility, particularly in varied lighting conditions. The elevation adjustment feature has allowed me to fine-tune my 1911 for different ammunition types and distances, something I couldn’t achieve before. I’m very satisfied with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight
Specifications
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, ensuring high strength and durability. The sight fits 1911 platforms with standard Novak-type dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″). It features an elevation-adjustable design for precise zeroing.
The sight utilizes Trijicon tritium lamps with 0.076″ dots for enhanced low-light visibility. It’s available with Green or Yellow tritium dots. The front blade height is 0.2 inches. These specs are crucial because they directly influence the sight’s durability, visibility, and compatibility with various 1911 models.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight excels at providing a clear and adjustable sight picture in various lighting conditions. Its serrated blade reduces glare, enhancing daytime visibility. The tritium inserts provide excellent low-light aiming capability.
The elevation adjustment feature allows for precise zeroing, improving accuracy at different distances. While the initial adjustment can be a bit stiff, it becomes smoother with use. Overall, the sight meets and exceeds expectations for a high-quality adjustable night sight.
The sight’s primary strength lies in its combination of adjustability, durability, and low-light performance. A minor weakness could be the initial stiffness of the adjustment screw, but this is easily overcome.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight boasts a robust and functional design. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction gives it a solid and durable feel. The serrated blade minimizes glare, improving sight acquisition in bright conditions.
The tritium dots are well-placed and provide excellent visibility in low light. The sight integrates seamlessly with the 1911 slide, maintaining a clean and professional appearance. The slight learning curve involves familiarizing oneself with the elevation adjustment mechanism.
The sight’s weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the pistol. It enhances the overall ergonomics of the 1911 by providing a more precise and visible sighting system. The design focuses on functionality and durability, resulting in a user-friendly and effective upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight, made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, is built to last. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. The tritium lamps have a rated lifespan of several years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent. The sight’s durable finish resists corrosion and wear. With proper care, the sight should provide many years of reliable service.
Repair, if ever needed, would likely involve replacing the tritium lamps or the elevation adjustment screw, tasks best left to a qualified gunsmith. The sight’s overall durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for serious shooters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight is primarily a standalone upgrade. It pairs well with a variety of Novak-compatible front sights. Kensight offers a ProGlo tritium night sight with a lumi Orange outline designed specifically to complement this rear sight.
The sight is designed to fit standard 1911 dovetail cuts, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of 1911 pistols. There are no specific accessories required for installation or use beyond standard gunsmithing tools. The primary customization option is choosing between Green or Yellow tritium dots.
The ability to pair this rear sight with different front sight options allows for some degree of customization in sight picture preference. The Novak-compatible design ensures compatibility with numerous aftermarket front sights from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Low-Light Visibility: The Trijicon tritium inserts provide a bright and clear sight picture in low-light conditions, significantly improving target acquisition.
Cons
- Initial Adjustment Stiffness: The elevation adjustment screw can be initially stiff, requiring more force than expected.
Precise Elevation Adjustment: The adjustable design allows for fine-tuning the point of impact, enhancing accuracy at different distances and with various ammunition types.
Durable Construction: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements.
Serrated Blade: The serrated blade reduces glare, providing a clearer sight picture in bright conditions.
Easy Installation: Designed to fit standard Novak-type dovetail cuts, ensuring easy installation on a wide range of 1911 pistols.
Price: At $198.04, it is a premium-priced sight compared to some other fixed or non-tritium options.
Who Should Buy Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight?
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight is perfect for 1911 owners seeking improved accuracy and low-light visibility. It would greatly benefit defensive shooters, competition shooters, and law enforcement personnel who rely on their 1911 in challenging lighting conditions. Anyone prioritizing precise zeroing and enhanced target acquisition will appreciate this sight.
Those on a tight budget or who primarily shoot in well-lit environments might find a less expensive fixed sight sufficient. If elevation adjustability is not a priority, other tritium night sights may be a better option.
A complementary Kensight ProGlo tritium front sight is a must-have accessory to maximize the benefits of this rear sight. A qualified gunsmith for proper installation is also recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with sight replacement.
Conclusion on Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight
The Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight is a high-quality upgrade that delivers on its promises of improved accuracy and low-light visibility. Its robust construction, precise elevation adjustment, and bright tritium inserts make it a worthwhile investment for serious 1911 shooters. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the performance and durability justify the cost.
The sight significantly enhances target acquisition and provides a clear and adjustable sight picture in various lighting conditions. I would personally recommend this sight to anyone seeking a premium upgrade for their 1911.
If you’re ready to take your 1911’s performance to the next level, the Kensight Serrated Blade DAS Adjustable Tritium Rear Night Sight is an excellent choice. Upgrade today and experience the difference!