Is the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall Right for You?
The quest for improved accuracy and low-light performance on my cherished 1911 platform led me to the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall. As an operator who demands reliability in environments ranging from the dusty workshop to the dimmest range conditions, reliable sights are not a luxury; they’re a necessity. My previous factory sights, while functional in good light, left much to be desired when the sun dipped below the horizon or when I was working under less-than-ideal illumination. The promise of precision adjustment and tritium illumination in this Kensight set felt like a significant upgrade.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship. The 4140 chrome-moly steel construction felt robust, and the wire-EDM cut blade suggested a level of precision that is often missing in more budget-oriented options. I had briefly considered a simpler, non-adjustable rear sight with tritium, but the Bomar design’s adjustable nature offered a compelling advantage for fine-tuning my point of impact. The immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism – this sight set looked like it could genuinely enhance my shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall to the Test
First Use Experience
My first encounter with the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall was on a clear, crisp afternoon at my local outdoor range. The installation process, which I performed myself after carefully reading the instructions and consulting a few online guides, was straightforward thanks to the standard dovetail mount. Once fitted, the initial adjustments for windage and elevation were intuitive. The micro-adjustments provided by the target-style design allowed me to precisely zero the pistol for my preferred ammunition.
I deliberately tested the sights under varying light conditions throughout the day. As the sun began to set, the Trijicon tritium inserts truly began to shine. The contrast between the white outline on the rear sight and the tritium dot on the front sight became remarkably clear, allowing for a swift and confident sight picture. Even with rapid fire drills, the sights maintained their alignment, and I experienced no unexpected looseness or shifts in zero, which can be a common issue with less well-built adjustable sights.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months of consistent use, encompassing countless range trips, some dry-fire practice sessions at home, and even a bit of work-related close-quarters practice in dimly lit areas, the Kensight Bomar BMCS adjustable sights have proven to be exceptionally reliable. The 4140 chrome-moly steel construction has shrugged off the occasional brush against a workbench or the light dusting that inevitably accumulates in my gear bag. There are no discernible cracks, no stiffness in the adjustment screws, and the tritium vials still emit a strong, consistent glow after dark.
Compared to the factory sights I replaced, these adjustable sights offer a significant leap in performance. The adjustability allows me to perfectly compensate for different bullet weights or minor variations in my shooting technique, something a fixed sight simply cannot do. Furthermore, the tritium illumination is far more effective and longer-lasting than some generic luminescent paint I’ve encountered on other budget sights. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and a drop of light gun oil on the adjustment screws when needed keeps them functioning smoothly.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is meticulously crafted from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, a material renowned for its strength and durability. This ensures the sights can withstand the rigors of frequent use and various environmental conditions without issue. The rear sight blade itself is wire-EDM cut, a process that guarantees high precision and tight tolerances crucial for accurate target shooting.
The defining feature of this set is its adjustable target design, allowing for precise adjustments to both windage and elevation. This is complemented by the integrated Trijicon tritium inserts, which provide crucial low-light visibility. The rear sight comes with a 0.200in tall blade, but the product description notes that blades are available in a range of heights from 0.150″ to 0.210″, offering flexibility for different barrel lengths and sight radius setups. The front sight includes its own Tritium dot insert, ensuring a consistent illuminated aiming point for both day and night operations.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any sight is to enable accurate aiming, and this Kensight set excels in that regard. The adjustable target rear sight offers incredibly fine-tuned control over shot placement. I was able to dial in my point of impact with minimal effort, compensating for ammunition variations and perfecting my sight alignment. The satisfyingly crisp clicks of the adjustment screws provide positive feedback, ensuring you know exactly how much you’re moving the sight.
The integration of Trijicon tritium inserts elevates the performance significantly for low-light situations. The contrast between the bright white outline and the self-illuminating tritium dot is excellent, making target acquisition much faster and more reliable in dusk, dawn, or complete darkness. I found the combination of a contrasting rear sight color (often yellow or green) and the white outline to be incredibly effective, saving those precious fractions of a second when precision is paramount. The front sight’s tritium dot is a perfect match, creating a clear and easily discernible sight picture.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this sight set is a testament to functional aesthetics. The 4140 chrome-moly steel provides a substantial feel, conveying a sense of quality and robustness. The black finish is non-reflective, which is crucial for reducing glare during daytime shooting. The serrated blade on the rear sight also helps to minimize light reflection, further improving contrast.
Ergonomically, the sights are well-designed for their intended purpose. The target-style adjustment knobs are easy to grip and manipulate, even with slightly gloved hands. The overall profile of the rear sight is low enough that it doesn’t interfere with my grip or the drawing process from a holster. The front sight post is appropriately sized for a balance between speed and precision, and the tritium insert is well-protected within its housing.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, this Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is built for the long haul. The 4140 chrome-moly steel is a workhorse material that stands up exceptionally well to abuse. I’ve intentionally subjected them to conditions that mimic typical hard use – from being tossed into a range bag alongside other gear to being handled with potentially greasy hands. They show no signs of wear beyond superficial cosmetic marks that are easily overlooked.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a very light gun oil to the adjustment screw threads keeps them operating flawlessly. The tritium inserts have an advertised lifespan of around 12 years, meaning they will continue to provide their low-light illumination for a considerable time before needing replacement. There are no obvious points of failure; the construction feels solid and the components are well-fitted.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular offering is a sight set, meaning it includes both the rear and front sights. The set comes ready to install on a 1911 platform with a standard dovetail cut. While no additional physical accessories are typically included with this type of upgrade, the Kensight Bomar BMCS system offers significant customization through its adjustable nature and the availability of different blade heights.
As mentioned, the rear sight blade is available in a range of heights (0.150″ to 0.210″). This is a critical customization option, allowing shooters to match the sights to their specific firearm’s dimensions, ammunition, and desired sight radius for perfect zeroing. The Trijicon tritium inserts are also available in different colors (green or yellow are common), offering another avenue for personal preference and potentially optimizing visibility based on individual eyesight or shooting conditions.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
Pros
- Precision Adjustability: The target-style rear sight allows for exceptionally fine adjustments to windage and elevation, enabling perfect zeroing.
- Excellent Low-Light Performance: Trijicon tritium inserts provide clear, self-illuminating aiming points for dusk, dawn, and night shooting.
- Robust Construction: Made from 4140 chrome-moly steel, these sights are built to last and withstand demanding use.
- Enhanced Accuracy Potential: The combination of adjustability and clear sight picture directly translates to improved shooting accuracy.
- Durable Materials: The use of quality steel and reliable tritium ensures longevity and consistent performance.
Cons
- Price Point: At $188.49, this set represents a significant investment compared to basic sights.
- Installation May Require Expertise: While manageable for the DIYer, professional installation might be necessary for those unfamiliar with firearm sight replacement.
- Limited Color Options for Tritium (Typically): While you can choose between green or yellow, more exotic color options are generally not available for the tritium inserts.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall?
This Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is an ideal upgrade for serious 1911 owners who prioritize accuracy and performance, especially in variable lighting conditions. Competitive shooters, dedicated range enthusiasts, and those who carry their 1911 for personal defense will find immense value in its precision and low-light capabilities. If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to make precise shots as light fades, or if you simply want the ability to fine-tune your aim beyond factory fixed sights, this set is for you.
However, individuals looking for a simple, no-frills sight upgrade might find the price and complexity of adjustment more than they need. If your 1911 is purely a collector’s piece or sees very limited use in bright daylight, a less expensive alternative might suffice. For those who opt for this set, ensuring you have the proper gunsmithing tools for sight installation, or budgeting for professional installation, is a smart move.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ 0.200in Tall is a superb upgrade for any 1911 enthusiast looking to elevate their firearm’s performance. The combination of robust 4140 chrome-moly steel construction, highly precise adjustable target sights, and reliable Trijicon tritium illumination delivers exceptional value. Its ability to enhance both daytime accuracy and low-light visibility is undeniable, justifying the investment for serious shooters.
While the price is certainly an investment, the performance and durability this set offers make it well worth the cost for those who demand the best. I would wholeheartedly recommend this sight set to any 1911 owner seeking a significant improvement in their aiming capabilities. If you’re ready to take your 1911 to the next level in precision and all-conditions usability, the Kensight Bomar BMCS is an excellent choice that delivers on its promises.