Let’s Review the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade
For those of us who meticulously tune our firearms, every component matters. My search for an improved rear sight for my 1911 platform often led me down a rabbit hole of options, each promising enhanced accuracy and usability. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade caught my eye with its Bomar-style design and the promise of precise adjustments. This isn’t just about hitting the bullseye; it’s about the tactile feedback, the repeatability, and the confidence that comes from a sight that’s built to perform.
My existing rear sight, while functional, lacked the fine-tuning capabilities I craved for competitive shooting and demanding range sessions. I found myself wishing for a more defined click, a wider notch, and the robustness to withstand constant adjustment without developing play. This led me to explore options that offered a true target sight experience, something that could translate my intent to the target with unwavering consistency. My goal was to find a rear sight that felt like an extension of my own hand, allowing for rapid acquisition and precise sight picture under pressure.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The sight feels substantial in the hand, a testament to its 4140 chrome moly steel construction. The machining is evident, with tight tolerances that suggest a quality build. It certainly doesn’t feel like a flimsy accessory; rather, it exudes a sense of permanence and reliability. Compared to some other aftermarket sights I’ve handled that felt a bit rough around the edges, this Kensight unit presented a cleaner, more refined finish. My immediate reaction was one of tempered satisfaction, a quiet anticipation of putting it to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade to the Test
My primary testing ground for this sight was my local indoor shooting range, a controlled environment that allows for precise measurement of accuracy and repeatability. I also took it out for a day at an outdoor range with varying light conditions to assess its performance in different scenarios. The goal was to push it through its paces, from rapid-fire drills to slow, deliberate shots requiring meticulous sight alignment.
During initial adjustments, I appreciated the distinct, audible clicks that confirmed each adjustment. This provided immediate feedback, unlike some sights that can feel mushy or imprecise. The larger 0.020″ deeper sight notch made front sight acquisition noticeably quicker, especially when transitioning between targets or during shooting exercises that demanded fast sight picture. Even after numerous adjustments, the sight remained firm, with no hint of unwanted movement or drift.
Over several weeks and multiple range visits, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade proved to be an exceptionally reliable performer. The adjustable components continued to function smoothly, and the serrated blade offered excellent glare reduction. Maintaining this optic was straightforward; a light wipe-down after each use and occasional checks of the adjustment screws were all that was needed. Compared to some budget sights I’ve used in the past, which often developed play or became stiff over time, this Kensight unit felt engineered for longevity.
First Use Experience
My first experience with this rear sight was during a dedicated range day focused on load development. I installed the sight myself, and while 1911 sight installation can sometimes be a wrestling match, the dovetail dimensions were exceptionally consistent, allowing for a snug, precise fit. The process of zeroing involved making small, deliberate adjustments with the windage and elevation screws, each turn providing a satisfying click. The initial surprise was how intuitive the larger sight notch made acquiring the front sight post; it felt like a natural improvement over my previous setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds, the sight has maintained its zero and adjustment integrity perfectly. I’ve experienced no loosening of the screws or any degradation in the tactile feel of the adjustments. It has also endured the typical dust and grime encountered at an outdoor range without any issues. The heat-treated 4140 chrome moly steel construction has held up admirably, showing no signs of wear beyond minor cosmetic marks from handling.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade is constructed from 4140 chrome moly steel, heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40. This ensures exceptional durability and resistance to wear, crucial for a component subjected to constant adjustment and potential impact. The major components are manufactured using the wire-EDM process, which guarantees extremely tight part-to-part fit and consistent dovetail dimensions of +/- 0.001 inches. This precision machining is fundamental to the sight’s ability to hold zero and offer repeatable adjustments.
The sight features a square serrated blade designed for reduced glare and improved target acquisition. Its 0.020″ deeper sight notch (compared to a standard 0.100″ notch) provides a larger window, making it easier to align the front sight quickly and accurately. This enhanced visibility is a significant advantage for shooters who prioritize rapid sight acquisition. The sight is designed to be compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts, a common standard on many customized and factory 1911 pistols, measuring 0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade is to provide precise and reliable aiming. In this regard, it excels. The adjustable mechanisms for windage and elevation are exceptionally well-implemented, offering distinct tactile clicks that translate directly into measurable changes on target. This level of precision is invaluable for competitive shooters or anyone seeking to maximize their firearm’s accuracy potential. The square serrated blade works effectively to reduce distracting glares, particularly under bright or varied lighting conditions.
The main strength of this optic lies in its superb adjustability and the resulting confidence it instills. Each click feels deliberate and contributes to a consistent sight picture. However, the absence of a fiber optic or tritium insert on the rear blade means it relies entirely on ambient light for visibility, which could be a drawback in extremely low-light situations where its front sight counterpart might feature a fiber optic rod. For precise target work, its performance is outstanding.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Kensight rear sight is a clear nod to classic Bomar target sights, prioritizing function and durability. The 4140 chrome moly steel construction gives it a substantial, premium feel, and the matte black finish is both attractive and practical, minimizing reflections. The wire-EDM manufacturing process results in exceptionally clean lines and tight tolerances, contributing to its overall robust feel. The serrated blade adds a functional grip texture, preventing slippage when making adjustments.
Ergonomically, the sight is designed for deliberate adjustment rather than rapid manipulation. The adjustment screws are accessible and provide clear feedback, but they are not designed for quick, on-the-fly changes like some combat-style sights. The larger sight notch, a key ergonomic feature, undeniably enhances the ease of front sight acquisition. This focus on precision adjustment makes it an excellent choice for static shooting positions or controlled environments where deliberate sight picture is paramount.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from heat-treated 4140 chrome moly steel and the wire-EDM manufacturing process, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade is built for longevity. I anticipate this sight will withstand years of rigorous use without issue. The adjustment screws are well-machined and feel resistant to stripping or wear, even with frequent manipulation. Maintenance is minimal; a light application of gun oil to the adjustment mechanisms occasionally, along with regular cleaning of the firearm, should suffice.
I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, though it’s worth noting that any finely tuned adjustable sight is susceptible to damage from significant impact. However, its sturdy construction offers a good degree of protection. The tight tolerances that contribute to its excellent performance also mean that dirt or debris could potentially impede adjustment if not cleaned regularly.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific product is the rear sight component of a matched set that often includes a front sight, such as the described flat base fiber optic blade front sight. The provided product details mention this pairing, highlighting a 0.060” diameter fiber optic rod in the front sight, well-shielded for durability and superior visibility. While this review focuses on the rear sight, the synergy between a precise rear sight and a high-visibility front sight is crucial for optimal aiming. The rear sight itself, being adjustable, offers a form of “customization” through its windage and elevation adjustments, allowing the shooter to dial in their preferred zero. It’s designed to fit standard Novak type front sight dovetail cuts.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade
Pros
- Exceptional Precision and Repeatability: The wire-EDM manufactured components and tight dovetail dimensions ensure incredibly precise and repeatable windage and elevation adjustments.
- Robust Construction: Made from heat-treated 4140 chrome moly steel, this sight is built for extreme durability and longevity.
- Improved Sight Acquisition: The 0.020″ deeper sight notch significantly aids in quickly acquiring the front sight post.
- Tactile and Audible Adjustments: Distinct, satisfying clicks provide clear feedback for every adjustment made.
- Classic Bomar Style: Appeals to shooters who appreciate the proven performance and aesthetic of Bomar-style target sights.
- Excellent value for a precision target sight.
Cons
- Limited Low-Light Performance: The square serrated blade does not incorporate a tritium or fiber optic element, making it less visible in very low-light conditions without a matching illuminated front sight.
- Requires Dedicated Front Sight: To realize its full potential, it’s best paired with a compatible front sight, often sold separately or as part of a set.
- Adjustment Knob Size: While precise, the adjustment knobs are designed for deliberate use and may be slightly less ergonomic for rapid field adjustments compared to larger combat-style sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade?
This Kensight rear sight is an ideal choice for competitive pistol shooters who demand the highest level of precision and adjustability for their 1911 platform. It’s also perfect for recreational shooters who enjoy fine-tuning their firearm for maximum accuracy at the range. Anyone looking to upgrade from a standard fixed rear sight to a true target-style sight that offers granular control over their zero will find this optic highly beneficial. It’s particularly well-suited for use in well-lit environments or when paired with a brightly illuminated front sight.
Shooters who primarily engage in low-light or night shooting without a supplemental light source might consider a different rear sight option, or at the very least, ensure they pair this with a highly visible front sight. Those seeking a simple, fixed battle sight for tactical applications might find the adjustable nature of this sight to be more than they need. For those looking to maximize their pistol’s accuracy potential and appreciate tactile feedback, this Kensight rear sight is a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight w/Square Serrated Blade stands out as a superb choice for shooters prioritizing precision and adjustability. Its robust construction, meticulously tight tolerances achieved through wire-EDM manufacturing, and the clear feedback from its adjustment mechanisms all contribute to an outstanding user experience. While its lack of integral low-light illumination might be a consideration for some, its strengths in accuracy, repeatability, and build quality are undeniable.
For its price point, this optic offers remarkable value, providing a level of precision typically found in much more expensive target sights. If you are a dedicated 1911 enthusiast looking to refine your pistol’s aiming system for peak performance on the range, I would highly recommend this sight. It delivers on its promise of precise adjustment and durable construction, making it a valuable upgrade for any serious shooter.