All About the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade: Start Here
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of upgrades and modifications. For my well-used 1911 platform, I was on the hunt for a rear sight that offered precision adjustment without sacrificing durability or snag resistance. My previous target sights, while accurate, had a tendency to catch on clothing and holsters during dynamic movement, a frustrating compromise for a handgun I rely on. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade presented itself as a promising solution, boasting a design aimed at blending robust performance with practical considerations for everyday carry and use. Initial impressions upon unboxing revealed a solid, well-machined component, hinting at the quality expected from Kensight. While I briefly considered other high-end adjustable sights, their often sharp edges and lack of specific snag-reduction features steered me back to this model. There’s a palpable sense of relief and curiosity in finally having a sight that seems to address all my prior concerns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my usual indoor range, a controlled environment where I could focus on sight acquisition and adjustment accuracy. I also brought it to a private outdoor range where conditions varied, including a light drizzle. The installation process was straightforward, fitting snugly into the standard Novak-style dovetail cut on my 1911 slide. Adjustments for elevation and windage were crisp and precise, with audible and tactile clicks that inspire confidence.
I paid close attention to how the rounded blade and beveled edges performed. Even when drawing from a concealed holster and during rapid fire, I experienced no snags whatsoever. This feature alone was a significant upgrade from my previous sights.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks of regular range visits and some tactical training drills, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade has proven its mettle. It has held zero through hundreds of rounds, demonstrating the robustness of its internal adjustment mechanisms. The 4140 chrome moly steel construction, coupled with heat treatment to RC 38-40, has shown no signs of wear, even when subjected to the occasional accidental bump against work surfaces in my workshop.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-dampened cloth and a light re-lubrication of the adjustment screws are all that’s required. Compared to some of the cheaper adjustable sights I’ve used in the past, which developed slop or required frequent re-zeroing, this Kensight optic is a clear step up in reliability and longevity. The ability to make precise, repeatable adjustments without fear of the sight shifting is a testament to its quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade is constructed from robust 4140 chrome moly steel, a material chosen for its exceptional strength and resistance to wear. It is heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of repeated use and recoil. This rear sight is designed for the 1911 Platform, featuring a dovetail mount type that is compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″). The blade itself is 0.100” wide and partially serrated, providing a good balance between visibility and glare reduction.
The rounded corners on the blade are a critical design element, dramatically reducing the chance of snagging on clothing or equipment, a common issue with more aggressive sight designs. The base also features beveled edges, further contributing to its snag-free profile. This specification is crucial for anyone who carries their firearm concealed or needs to draw quickly from any position without impediment. The sight comes in a classic Black finish, designed to blend seamlessly with most pistol slides.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade is to provide accurate and repeatable point-of-aim adjustment for 1911 pistols, and it excels in this regard. The windage and elevation adjustments are incredibly precise, allowing for minute corrections to align with the point of impact. Each click provides a tangible and audible change, making it easy to dial in the exact settings needed for a specific ammunition type or shooting distance.
The most significant performance advantage is its snag-free design. The rounded blade and beveled base mean that drawing the pistol from a holster, or even just brushing against it in daily movement, does not result in the sight catching on anything. This is a critical functional improvement for those who rely on their firearm for self-defense or competitive shooting where speed is paramount. The sight’s performance remains consistent even after hundreds of rounds, with no perceivable loosening of adjustments.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this rear sight is a thoughtful blend of traditional target sight functionality and modern, practical considerations. The use of 4140 chrome moly steel gives it a substantial, quality feel, unlike lighter aluminum or polymer sights. Its black finish is durable and non-reflective, which is ideal for a firearm component.
Ergonomically, the rounded blade is a standout feature. It feels smooth to the touch and presents no sharp edges to catch on anything. The adjustment knobs for windage and elevation are also well-designed, offering enough texture for grip even with slightly sweaty hands, yet remaining unobtrusive. The partially serrated blade helps to diffuse light, improving sight picture clarity in various lighting conditions without being overly distracting.
Durability & Maintenance
The 4140 chrome moly steel construction and heat treatment to RC 38-40 point towards exceptional durability for this Kensight optic. It feels robust enough to withstand the shock of recoil over thousands of rounds. I have not observed any signs of wear, such as chipping, cracking, or excessive scratching, despite rigorous testing.
Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. A light application of gun oil to the adjustment threads and slide contact points after cleaning is sufficient. The beveled edges and rounded blade also make cleaning easier, as debris is less likely to lodge in sharp corners. The overall impression is that this sight is built to last for many years of consistent use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade is primarily a direct replacement part for the rear sight assembly. It is designed to pair with a compatible front sight, such as the contoured base fiber optic front sight mentioned in its description. The product description specifically notes its compatibility with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts, which is crucial for installation on many customized and factory 1911 pistols.
While there are no bundled accessories with this specific rear sight unit itself, its compatibility with a wide range of 1911 front sights and its robust adjustability make it a strong foundation for a custom sight picture. The ability to precisely tune both windage and elevation means you can tailor your sight radius and aiming point to your exact preference and shooting style.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade
Pros
- Superior snag resistance: The rounded blade and beveled base effectively prevent catching on clothing or holsters.
- Precise adjustability: Windage and elevation adjustments are crisp, tactile, and highly accurate for fine-tuning.
- Durable construction: Made from 4140 chrome moly steel and heat-treated to RC 38-40 for long-term reliability.
- Excellent sight acquisition: The 0.100” wide blade with partial serrations offers good visibility without excessive glare.
- Fits standard Novak cuts: Designed for easy installation on most 1911s with the common Novak type front sight dovetail cuts.
Cons
- Requires a compatible front sight: This is a rear sight; you’ll need a suitable front sight for a complete setup.
- May require professional installation: While straightforward for those familiar with firearm work, some may prefer a gunsmith for fitting.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade?
This rear sight is an ideal choice for 1911 owners who prioritize accuracy and desire the ability to make on-the-fly sight adjustments. It’s particularly well-suited for competitive shooters who need to fine-tune their sights for different distances or ammunition types. Law enforcement officers and responsible citizens who carry their 1911 concealed will appreciate the significant reduction in snagging, enhancing draw speed and reliability.
Anyone looking to upgrade from fixed sights or replace worn/damaged adjustable sights on their 1911 would also benefit greatly. Those who frequently shoot at varying distances will find the precision adjustment invaluable. You should likely skip this if you’re looking for a purely aesthetic modification or if your 1911 does not feature a Novak-style rear sight cut.
A compatible front sight, especially one with a similar profile and color, is highly recommended to create a balanced sight picture. For instance, pairing it with the mentioned contoured base fiber optic front sight would be an excellent synergistic upgrade. Having the proper gunsmithing tools on hand or budgeting for professional installation is also advisable for a perfect fit.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Rounded Blade stands out as a superior upgrade for any 1911 enthusiast seeking precision and practicality. Its robust construction, combined with a genuinely useful snag-free design, makes it a top-tier option for both range work and defensive applications. The ease of adjustment and the quality of its build justify its price point, offering excellent value for a component that directly impacts shooting performance and confidence.
I wholeheartedly recommend this rear sight to anyone looking to enhance their 1911’s accuracy and utility. It’s a testament to thoughtful engineering, addressing common frustrations with adjustable sights by incorporating practical, user-focused features. If you own a 1911 and value precision, durability, and a smooth draw, this sight is a smart investment that you won’t regret.