First Impressions of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight promises an upgrade to the classic 1911 platform, offering enhanced visibility in low-light conditions and greater precision through adjustability. Designed to fit specific models of Charles Daly, Para-Ordnance, Springfield Armory, Nowlin, Olympic Arms, and High Standard 1911s, this sight aims to bridge the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern performance. It immediately caught my attention with its blend of a beveled blade, tritium dots, and adjustable mechanics, seemingly offering both speed and accuracy.
Years of working with tactical gear have taught me the value of reliable sights, especially in challenging scenarios. I sought this sight as an upgrade for my Springfield Armory 1911, hoping to improve its low-light performance and fine-tune its accuracy for both range work and potential defensive situations.
The initial unboxing revealed a robust sight made of what appeared to be high-quality steel, finished in a deep, matte black. The tritium dots were clearly visible, even in daylight, promising excellent nighttime visibility, and the adjustability screws felt solid and precise. Compared to standard GI sights, the Kensight sight felt like a significant upgrade in both material quality and overall design.
I considered other adjustable tritium sights from Trijicon and Meprolight, but chose the Kensight due to its contoured base and Springfield-specific design, hoping for a seamless fit and aesthetically pleasing integration. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; it looked like a quality product, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its potential on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range under varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to dusk. Installation was straightforward, fitting snugly into my Springfield 1911’s existing dovetail cut with minimal fitting required. The sight immediately improved my target acquisition speed, thanks to the sharp edges and well-defined serrations of the beveled blade.
The tritium dots provided a clear and distinct aiming point as daylight faded, making low-light shooting significantly easier. Adjusting the sight for windage and elevation was simple and precise, allowing me to quickly zero my pistol at 15 yards. However, I noticed that the adjustment screws were quite small, requiring a delicate touch to avoid stripping them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my 1911. Despite hundreds of rounds fired, the sight has maintained its zero and shows no signs of loosening or shifting. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session.
The finish has held up well, with only minor wear marks appearing on the edges of the sight after repeated holster use. Compared to the factory sights, the Kensight sight provides a significant improvement in both accuracy and low-light performance, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any serious 1911 shooter. While some may find the tritium dots less bright than other brands, the overall package offers a solid balance of features and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kensight manufactures this sight to fit certain model Charles Daly, Para-Ordnance, Springfield Armory, Nowlin, Olympic Arms and High Standard 1911 slides with adjustable sight cut.
- Gun Make: The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is designed for the 1911 Platform. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911 pistols.
- Gun Model: Also designed for 1911 model pistols for a precise fit.
- Color: The sight features a black finish for a sleek and tactical look.
- Fabric/Material: Constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel for exceptional strength and durability. This ensures the sight can withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Gun Type: Specifically designed for pistols, ensuring optimal performance on handguns.
- Illumination Type: Features Tritium illumination for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. This allows for accurate aiming even in darkness.
- Condition: Arrives in new condition, guaranteeing a pristine and functional product.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the sight’s performance, durability, and compatibility. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction ensures that the sight can withstand the recoil and abuse associated with frequent shooting. The tritium illumination allows for effective use in low-light scenarios, essential for both tactical and defensive applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight excels in enhancing both accuracy and low-light visibility on the 1911 platform. The adjustable design allows for precise zeroing, while the tritium dots provide a clear aiming point in darkness.
The sight’s strengths lie in its robust construction, ease of adjustment, and significantly improved low-light performance. One potential area for improvement would be making the adjustment screws slightly larger for easier manipulation. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a drop-in sight upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight boasts a well-thought-out design, blending form and function seamlessly. The use of 4140 Chrome Moly Steel contributes to its robust build, providing confidence in its long-term reliability.
The sight’s contoured base ensures a comfortable and snag-free profile, while the beveled blade promotes quick target acquisition. There’s no significant learning curve; most experienced shooters will find the sight intuitive and easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and precise construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication to keep the adjustment screws moving freely. The sight is designed for easy installation and removal, making any necessary repairs or replacements relatively simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is often paired with Kensight’s Springfield tritium contoured front sight with a serrated blade for a complete sighting system. While the rear sight itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, the ability to adjust windage and elevation provides a degree of personalization.
The sight is compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.340″ x 60 x 0.075″), commonly found on customized and factory 1911 pistols. Shooters can choose from a variety of front sight heights to achieve their desired sight picture.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Low-Light Visibility: The tritium dots provide a clear and bright aiming point in low-light conditions, improving accuracy and target acquisition.
- Precise Adjustability: Windage and elevation adjustments allow for fine-tuning to achieve optimal zeroing for different ammunition and shooting styles.
- Durable Construction: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, the sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain its performance over time.
- Improved Target Acquisition: The beveled blade and serrated rear face promote faster and more accurate target acquisition compared to standard sights.
- Seamless Integration: Designed specifically for Springfield 1911s and compatible with Novak type front sight dovetails, ensuring a proper fit and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Cons
- Adjustment Screws: The adjustment screws are somewhat small and could be prone to stripping if not handled carefully.
- Tritium Brightness: Some users might find the tritium dots less bright compared to other brands, although they are still effective.
Who Should Buy Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight?
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is perfect for 1911 owners seeking to upgrade their pistol’s accuracy and low-light capabilities. It benefits competitive shooters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who relies on their 1911 for personal defense.
Those who prioritize maximum tritium brightness above all else might want to explore other options, and those who are uncomfortable with making fine adjustments to their sights should consider a fixed sight alternative. A quality gunsmith may be needed if the user is uncomfortable fitting the sight themselves.
Conclusion on Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight
The Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is a well-made and functional upgrade for the classic 1911 pistol. It delivers enhanced accuracy, improved low-light visibility, and a durable construction that should provide years of reliable service.
At a price of $180.37, the Kensight sight represents a solid value for those seeking to improve their 1911’s performance without breaking the bank. I would personally recommend it to any 1911 owner looking for a significant upgrade in both form and function. If you’re ready to take your 1911 to the next level, the Kensight Springfield Contoured Base Adjustable Tritium Dot Rear Sight is an excellent choice.