First Impressions of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight promises enhanced visibility in low-light conditions and a seamless fit for Springfield and Dan Wesson 1911 pistols. Kensight is a reputable name in the firearms accessory industry, and this particular front sight caught my attention due to its tritium illumination and contoured design, a feature aimed at blending smoothly with the slide profile. For years, I’ve struggled with standard iron sights in dimly lit shooting environments, and the promise of a brighter, more visible front sight was definitely appealing.
My aging eyes need a little help these days, especially in low-light scenarios. I was looking for a front sight that offered a clear and quick target acquisition in any lighting condition. My standard 1911 front sight was simply not cutting it anymore.
Upon unboxing, the Kensight front sight felt solid and well-made. The steel construction gave it a reassuring heft, and the tritium dot was noticeably bright, even in daylight. I compared it to a standard Novak-style front sight and a fiber optic front sight I had lying around. The Kensight‘s tritium offered a distinct advantage in terms of consistent visibility, as fiber optics rely on ambient light and standard iron sights are nearly invisible in darkness.
I was excited to install this sight. The promise of improved low-light performance and enhanced aesthetics had me eager to hit the range. I hoped the Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight would live up to its claims and provide a significant upgrade to my 1911’s sight picture.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight on my Springfield 1911 and took it to my local outdoor shooting range. The initial installation required minimal fitting, a welcome surprise as some aftermarket sights can be a real pain to get properly seated. The contoured base did indeed blend nicely with the slide, creating a clean, almost factory-installed look.
I tested the sight in various lighting conditions throughout the day, from bright sunlight to the dim interior of the range’s covered shooting bays. In bright light, the white ring around the tritium dot provided excellent contrast. As the light diminished, the tritium began to glow noticeably, providing a clear and consistent aiming point. There were no issues during the first range trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear on the steel, and the tritium dot remains as bright as it was on day one. I regularly clean my 1911 after each range trip, and the sight requires no special maintenance.
The Kensight sight has significantly improved my low-light shooting capabilities compared to my previous experiences with standard iron sights. It gives me the confidence to effectively use my 1911 in any lighting condition, a crucial factor for both recreational shooting and self-defense scenarios. This front sight has proven itself as a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight
Specifications
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight boasts several notable specifications that contribute to its performance. It is specifically designed for 1911 pistols with a Springfield or Dan Wesson-style front sight dovetail cut (0.340″ x 60 Degree x 0.075″). The sight features a 0.115″ Wide Blade and a height of 0.240 inches.
The sight utilizes a self-luminous Green Tritium Dot encased in a High Visibility Arctic White Dot for enhanced visibility in low-light and no-light situations. Manufactured from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40, it ensures robustness and longevity. These specifications are important because they directly impact the sight’s durability, visibility, and compatibility with specific firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight performs admirably in its intended role, providing a clear and reliable aiming point in various lighting conditions. Accuracy is significantly improved in low-light scenarios compared to standard iron sights. The sight consistently allows for faster target acquisition and more precise shot placement, especially when visibility is limited.
The sight’s greatest strength lies in its low-light performance. However, the white ring around the tritium dot also provides excellent contrast in bright daylight. The only potential area for improvement would be offering different color options for the tritium dot, as some shooters may prefer yellow or orange. Overall, it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The contoured base seamlessly blends with the slide, creating a clean and professional look. The sight is made from durable materials, ensuring its longevity even with regular use.
The sight’s weight is negligible and does not affect the balance or handling of the pistol. There is no significant learning curve associated with this sight; it feels intuitive and natural to use from the first shot. Its ergonomic design contributes to a comfortable and confident shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight is built to last. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction and heat treatment process ensure exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. The tritium lamp is also well-protected, minimizing the risk of damage.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and a mild solvent. There are no small parts or delicate components that require special attention. With proper care, this sight should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is designed to be compatible with standard 1911 rear sights, allowing for customization of the overall sight picture. Some shooters may choose to pair it with a matching tritium rear sight for enhanced low-light performance.
While the sight itself does not offer direct customization options (such as interchangeable blades), its compatibility with standard 1911 dovetail cuts allows for easy replacement if desired. The sight integrates seamlessly with existing 1911 components.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight
Pros
- Significantly enhances low-light shooting performance.
- Contoured base provides a seamless and professional look.
- Durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Clear and consistent sight picture in all lighting conditions.
Cons
- Only available with a green tritium dot.
- May require minor fitting for some 1911 models.
Who Should Buy Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight?
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize low-light shooting performance and a clean, factory-like aesthetic. It is an ideal upgrade for concealed carry holders, home defense enthusiasts, and law enforcement personnel who rely on their 1911 in potentially low-light situations. Anyone who struggles with standard iron sights in dim lighting will benefit greatly from this sight.
This product might not be necessary for shooters who primarily shoot in bright daylight conditions or who are satisfied with standard iron sights. Also, if you are not comfortable with minor gunsmithing, you may want to have a professional install the sight. A must-have modification is a quality 1911 rear sight that compliments the Kensight front sight.
Conclusion on Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base 0.240in Tritium Front Sight is a well-designed and highly effective upgrade for any Springfield or Dan Wesson 1911. Its tritium illumination, durable construction, and seamless fit make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to improve their low-light shooting capabilities. At a price of $58.54, the value proposition is strong, considering the enhanced performance and improved aesthetics it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this sight to anyone looking to upgrade their 1911’s front sight. Its ease of installation, reliable performance, and durable construction make it a top choice in its category. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference a quality tritium front sight can make.