The XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black Made a Bold First Impression
The XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black are a serious upgrade for the Kimber K6 revolver, promising enhanced visibility and faster target acquisition in low-light scenarios. These aren’t just cosmetic changes; they’re a commitment to practical performance when it matters most, brought to you by XS Sights.
I’ve been carrying a Kimber K6 for several years now as my primary concealed carry. One of the limitations I’ve always felt was the factory sights, which are adequate in daylight but virtually useless in anything less than ideal lighting. I needed a solution that provided a clear and rapid sight picture regardless of the ambient light.
The XS Sights arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was one of solid construction; the CNC machined steel felt substantial in my hand, and the contrasting orange front sight immediately caught my eye. Compared to the Trijicon HD XR sights I have on my Glock 19, these seemed to offer a potentially faster acquisition due to the larger, brighter front sight.
I chose these over the Meprolight Tru-Dot sights primarily because of the XS Sights‘ renowned R3D (Rapid Recognition Dot) system. The combination of the tritium vial and the photoluminescent Glow Dot, promised to make a significant difference in both daylight and low-light scenarios. I was excited to see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black was at my local indoor range, which provides controlled lighting conditions. I ran several drills focusing on speed and accuracy at distances of 7, 10, and 15 yards.
The immediate improvement was noticeable, especially during rapid-fire drills. The high-contrast orange front sight practically leaped into my field of view, allowing for significantly faster target acquisition. No issues arose during this initial session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of carrying my Kimber K6 with the XS Sights, I can confidently say they’ve become an indispensable part of my setup. The sights have held up remarkably well to daily wear and tear, showing no signs of finish degradation or loosening.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a silicone cloth after each range session keeps them looking and functioning like new. Compared to the factory sights, the XS Sights offer a vastly superior sight picture in all lighting conditions, bolstering my confidence in my everyday carry pistol. The XS Sights have proven more reliable and easier to acquire than the stock sights.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black
Specifications
Tritium-powered front sight with photoluminescent Glow Dot: This combination ensures visibility in complete darkness and during transitional lighting conditions. The tritium provides constant illumination, while the Glow Dot amplifies visibility in low light.
High-contrast sight: The bright orange front sight contrasts sharply against the black rear sight, making it easy to focus on the front sight for rapid target acquisition. This is crucial for accurate shooting, especially under stress.
Anti-reflective rear tritium lens: This feature minimizes glare and distractions, providing a clearer and more focused sight picture. Reducing glare improves visibility and reduces eye strain.
CNC-machined steel construction: The sights are built from durable steel, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of daily carry and range use. Steel construction ensures long-term reliability and resistance to damage.
Fits Kimber K6 revolvers, except K6xS models: These sights are specifically designed for the Kimber K6 platform, ensuring a precise fit and optimal performance. Proper fit is critical for accuracy and reliability.
Designed for .38 Special and .357 Magnum calibers: These sights are compatible with the most common calibers used in the Kimber K6, ensuring versatility. These are common defensive calibers used for CCW.
Gunsmith installation recommended: While some experienced gun owners may be able to install these sights themselves, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper alignment and function. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.
Performance & Functionality
The XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black perform exceptionally well, dramatically improving sight acquisition speed and accuracy, especially in low light. They meet and exceed my expectations.
The bright orange front sight grabs my attention instantly, allowing for quick target acquisition. This system gives me greater confidence in my ability to effectively defend myself in any lighting condition.
Design & Ergonomics
The sights are constructed from high-quality CNC machined steel, giving them a robust and durable feel. The weight is negligible and doesn’t affect the balance of the K6.
The design is clean and functional, prioritizing ease of use. There’s no learning curve; the improved sight picture is immediately apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
The CNC machined steel construction suggests these sights are built to last. They’ve already withstood months of daily carry without any signs of wear or corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep them clean and functioning properly. The steel is resistant to most cleaning solvents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The sights themselves don’t require any additional accessories, as they are a self-contained upgrade. No other accessories are required for use.
While there are no specific customization options for the sights themselves, they are compatible with various holster options designed for the Kimber K6. Different holster types can be used with this firearm.
Pros and Cons of XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black
Pros
- Dramatically improved sight acquisition speed: The high-contrast orange front sight makes it incredibly easy to quickly acquire a sight picture.
- Excellent low-light visibility: The tritium and Glow Dot combination ensures clear visibility in all lighting conditions.
- Durable CNC-machined steel construction: These sights are built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Easy to install (with proper tools or gunsmith): The installation process is relatively straightforward.
- Enhanced confidence in everyday carry: These sights significantly improve the functionality of the Kimber K6, providing added peace of mind.
Cons
- Gunsmith installation recommended – may incur additional cost.
- Bright orange front sight may be too distracting for some users in bright daylight (though I personally haven’t found this to be the case).
Who Should Buy XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black?
These sights are perfect for Kimber K6 owners who use their firearm for concealed carry and prioritize low-light performance. Anyone using their K6 for personal defense will benefit greatly.
If you primarily target shoot in brightly lit conditions and are content with the factory sights, this upgrade might not be necessary. Those who rarely carry their firearm in low-light environments can skip this product.
A quality gunsmith tool kit is recommended for installation, though a professional installation is preferred. While not strictly necessary, a high-quality holster designed for the Kimber K6 will complete the setup.
Conclusion on XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black
The XS Sights Kimber K6 R3D Night Sights – Orange – Black are a worthwhile investment for any Kimber K6 owner looking to enhance their firearm’s performance, especially in low-light scenarios. The price is justified by the improved sight acquisition speed, durability, and overall peace of mind they provide.
I wholeheartedly recommend these sights to anyone serious about concealed carry and personal defense. Upgrade your Kimber K6 today and experience the difference!