Why I Chose the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set: A Hands-On Review
As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear across every imaginable environment – from dusty workshops to precise lab benches and rugged field conditions – I know the frustration of a small part failing. My journey to the Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set began with precisely that: a single, worn-out spring in my beloved Elliason-style rear sight on a custom 1911. It was causing inconsistent elevation adjustments, a minor annoyance that quickly escalated into a significant impediment to accurate shooting.
My search wasn’t for a complete sight overhaul, but for a direct, reliable replacement for those often-overlooked internal components. While many aftermarket sights exist, Kensight’s reputation for precision machining and durability made their offering stand out. I’d previously considered generic spring kits, but the specificity of these Kensight springs, designed to match Colt-style mechanisms, felt like the more sensible path. My initial impression upon receiving the small, sealed package was one of professional consideration; the springs themselves, though tiny, felt robust and correctly formed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set to the Test
My testing ground for this spring set was my dedicated firearms workbench and, more importantly, the range. The immediate goal was to replace the faulty springs in my Elliason-style rear sight, a process that requires a delicate touch and the right tools.
First Use Experience
The first use was entirely on the workbench, disassembling the rear sight unit. The springs were immediately apparent as being well-manufactured, with a consistent tension that felt correct for the task. Inserting them into the sight mechanism was straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond basic gunsmithing screwdrivers and picks.
Once installed and the sight reassembled, the true test began at the range. I specifically focused on making multiple, small elevation adjustments, both up and down. The audible clicks were crisp and consistent, each one translating into a tangible and predictable change in my point of impact on paper targets. This immediate restoration of positive tactile feedback was a welcome relief.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several range sessions and hundreds of rounds fired from my 1911, these replacement springs have performed flawlessly. The elevation adjustments remain precise, with no hint of the previous sponginess or drift. The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set has proven itself to be a durable and reliable component in a critical part of the firearm’s sighting system.
Maintenance has been non-existent, as expected for such small, internal parts. They are protected within the sight housing, so exposure to dust or debris isn’t a significant concern. Compared to the generic, unbranded springs I might have sourced elsewhere, the difference in consistent tension and precise fit is palpable. It’s the kind of reliability you expect when you don’t want to be thinking about your sights.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set
Specifications
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set is a deceptively simple yet critical component. It includes two springs, each measuring approximately .200″ long x .105″ diameter. These dimensions are crucial for ensuring a proper fit within the original Colt Style and Elliason-style rear sights, as well as compatible Kensight manufactured units.
The material specified is 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, a robust alloy commonly used in firearm components due to its strength and resilience. This material choice directly contributes to the longevity and consistent performance of the springs, preventing premature fatigue or breakage. For a part that handles constant tension and precise movement, this is a significant specification.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of these springs is to provide the necessary tension for the elevation adjustment mechanism within the rear sight. They are responsible for the positive, audible clicks that allow the shooter to make minute adjustments to their point of aim. The Kensight springs excel at this core task.
Upon installation, the restored ability to make precise, repeatable elevation adjustments was the most impactful functional improvement. Each click now feels intentional and translates directly to a change on target. This is a testament to the springs’ correct tension and the tight tolerances for which Kensight is known.
Design & Ergonomics
While the design is inherently dictated by the sight it fits, Kensight’s execution of these springs is notable. The uniform winding and consistent diameter ensure they seat correctly and operate without binding or excessive friction. This attention to detail in manufacturing is what separates a functional replacement from one that merely fits.
The springs are designed for internal placement, so direct ergonomic considerations are minimal. However, their precise dimensions contribute to an overall improved user experience by ensuring the sight’s adjustment knob operates smoothly and predictably. This enhances the shooter’s confidence and ability to fine-tune their aim.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their construction from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and their protected placement within the sight housing, these springs are built for longevity. They are not subjected to the same wear and tear as external components. Barring gross mishandling during installation or an extreme environmental factor, these springs should last the lifetime of the sight.
Maintenance is effectively zero. Once installed, they require no cleaning or lubrication beyond what is typical for the rear sight unit itself. This low-maintenance nature is a significant benefit for a component that’s often overlooked until it fails.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is a replacement part kit, meaning it doesn’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. The sole “accessory” is the second spring, providing a backup or replacement for another compatible sight if needed. There are no customization options for the springs themselves; their design is fixed to meet specific requirements.
However, these springs are part of a system designed for interchangeability and compatibility. Their intended use with Colt Style, Elliason, and Kensight manufactured rear sights means they seamlessly integrate into existing firearm platforms, offering a non-intrusive upgrade or repair.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set
Pros
- Restores precise elevation adjustment: The primary function is met with exceptional accuracy, bringing back positive, repeatable clicks.
- Authentic Kensight quality: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, ensuring durability and consistent performance.
- Direct fit for Colt Style and Elliason sights: Designed for seamless integration into common rear sight mechanisms.
- Excellent value for the price: A very affordable solution to a potentially frustrating problem.
- Includes two springs: Provides a spare or allows for replacement in a second compatible sight.
Cons
- Requires disassembly of the rear sight: Installation is not for those uncomfortable with basic firearm maintenance.
- Minor component, critical function: While affordable, failure of this small part can render a significant portion of your aiming system unreliable.
Who Should Buy Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set?
This spring set is an ideal purchase for any owner of a Colt 1911 or similar firearm equipped with an Elliason-style or Colt-style adjustable rear sight. If you’ve noticed inconsistent or sloppy elevation adjustments, these springs are precisely what you need. They are also a smart buy for gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts who perform their own maintenance and wish to have common replacement parts on hand.
Anyone who values precise marksmanship and reliable equipment will appreciate the restoration these springs provide. This is not for the novice shooter who has never disassembled a firearm component. However, for those with a basic toolkit and a willingness to learn, installation is straightforward and rewarding.
A recommended accessory for the installation process would be a set of precision gunsmith screwdrivers and perhaps a small magnetic pick-up tool. These will make the disassembly and reassembly of the rear sight much smoother and less prone to dropping small parts.
Conclusion on Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set
The Kensight Colt Style Formerly Accro Elevation Spring Set may be a small, inexpensive item, but its impact on the usability and accuracy of an adjustable rear sight is profound. For a mere $5.99, these precisely machined springs from Kensight restore the crisp, reliable function that allows for confident, precise shooting. They are crafted from quality materials and designed to integrate seamlessly into popular sight designs, addressing a common point of failure with an effective and durable solution.
If you own a firearm with a compatible rear sight and have experienced any degradation in elevation adjustment precision, I unequivocally recommend this replacement set. It’s a testament to how vital even the smallest components can be, and Kensight has delivered an excellent, value-packed solution. This is a purchase that will likely bring you a surprising amount of satisfaction, ensuring your sights are as sharp as your aim.