The **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile**: Review from Real Use
When you’re building a reliable platform, especially one as venerable as the 1911, every component matters. I’ve spent over a decade outfitting gear for a wide range of demanding environments, from dusty workshops and sterile labs to rugged outdoor expeditions and precise field applications. My pursuit of accuracy and dependability often leads me down the path of upgrades, and for my go-to 1911, the sights were the next frontier. I was looking for something that offered superior adjustability and a bit of a tactical edge, which is precisely why I landed on the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile. This particular sight set promised precision and robustness, qualities I value highly in any piece of equipment.
The catalyst for this upgrade was a persistent desire for finer zeroing capabilities on my favorite .45 ACP 1911. While the factory sights were adequate for casual plinking, they lacked the fine-tuning I needed for more demanding target practice and the confidence of a tritium insert for low-light scenarios. I considered a few other options, including some popular competitor brands known for their ruggedness, but Kensight’s reputation for Wire-EDM machining and their specific Bomar-style design caught my attention. It felt like a significant step up, a true piece of refined engineering for a classic platform.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight felt substantial, indicative of the high-quality steel described, and the machining was visibly precise. The flat profile of the rear sight, a key design element, immediately stood out as a thoughtful touch for snag reduction. This wasn’t just another set of sights; it felt like a component built with intent, a noticeable upgrade from standard fare.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for these sights was the familiar, somewhat grimy concrete floor of my home workshop, followed by the controlled chaos of my local indoor shooting range. I needed to mount them first, a process that gave me an immediate feel for their fit and finish. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile installed cleanly into the standard 1911 dovetail, a testament to Kensight’s claimed tight tolerances. The tactile “clicks” during initial windage and elevation adjustments were satisfyingly precise, offering a tangible feedback that cheap sights often lack.
At the range, the true test began. I focused on making small, deliberate adjustments, observing the POI shift with each click. The serrated front sight paired with the adjustable rear aperture provided a crisp sight picture, even under the sometimes harsh indoor lighting. There was no slop in the adjustments, and the tritium insert glowed with a faint but discernible luminescence as I moved between lit and unlit bays. It felt immediately more responsive than any adjustable sight I’d used before.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks turned into months, and these Kensight sights became a permanent fixture on my 1911, seeing regular use at the range and even accompanying me on a couple of outdoor excursions where variable light conditions were a factor. They’ve endured being racked repeatedly, carried in a range bag alongside other tools, and experienced moderate temperature fluctuations without any adverse effects. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile has proven remarkably durable.
The serrations on the rear sight blade offer good purchase for adjustment, and the rounded corners and beveled edges on the base have indeed lived up to their promise of reduced snagging when drawing from a holster or handling the firearm. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and a bit of CLP is all it usually takes. Compared to previous adjustable sights I’ve used, which sometimes developed play or stiffness over time, these Kensight sights maintain their crispness and precision.
Breaking Down the Features of **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile**
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile is a meticulously engineered component designed for precision and longevity. At its core, it’s constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, a material renowned for its strength and wear resistance, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of consistent use. The manufacturing process utilizes Wire-EDM machining, a high-precision method that guarantees the tightest possible tolerances, translating directly to the smooth, audible clicks for both windage and elevation adjustments.
This rear sight is designed to fit the industry-standard Bomar BMCS dovetail cut, specifically measuring 0.330in x 65 x .075in. The set includes a 0.200″ tall blade, but Kensight offers blades ranging from 0.150″ to 0.200″ to accommodate various firearm configurations and shooter preferences. The inclusion of a Tritium illumination source within the sight provides a crucial advantage in low-light or no-light shooting conditions, allowing for faster target acquisition. The flat profile of the rear sight is a deliberate design choice to minimize snagging on clothing or gear, a critical consideration for self-defense or tactical applications.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile is to provide accurate and repeatable sight adjustments, and in this regard, it excels. The audible and tactile clicks for both windage and elevation are a standout feature, allowing for precise adjustments without needing to visually confirm every turn. This is invaluable when making quick zero changes at the range or in a dynamic shooting scenario. The serrated sight blade on the rear sight helps to reduce glare, enhancing the sight picture, while the included serrated front sight complements this by offering a clear, well-defined aiming point.
The tritium insert offers a reliable low-light aiming solution, providing a consistent glow that is easily visible against most backgrounds. While not as bright as modern fiber-optic or electronic sights in full daylight, its utility in dawn, dusk, or completely dark conditions is undeniable. The adjustable nature of the rear sight allows for fine-tuning the point of impact to match specific ammunition or shooter preferences, something fixed sights simply cannot offer. The reduced snag profile is also a functional advantage, preventing the sight from catching on holsters or clothing during a draw.
Design & Ergonomics
Kensight has clearly put thought into the design and ergonomics of this sight set. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction gives the sights a robust, premium feel, and the black finish is both durable and non-reflective. The flat profile on the rear sight is a significant ergonomic improvement over more angular designs, making it less likely to catch on anything. The serrations on the adjustment knobs and the sight blade itself provide positive grip, even with gloved hands or slightly sweaty fingers.
The overall appearance is one of purposeful design, fitting seamlessly with the classic lines of a 1911 while offering modern functionality. The integration of the tritium vial is clean and unobtrusive, and the serrated front sight is equally well-finished. While the adjustability itself is the main ergonomic draw, the ease with which these adjustments can be made, coupled with the clear feedback, makes the entire system user-friendly and efficient. There’s no discernable learning curve for basic use; it’s intuitive from the moment it’s installed.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and manufacturing process, the durability of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile is exceptional. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel is inherently resistant to wear and corrosion. The Wire-EDM machining process ensures that critical dimensions are held to very tight tolerances, meaning that parts are less likely to loosen or develop play over time. I’ve experienced no signs of excessive wear, cracks, or performance degradation even with frequent handling and adjustment.
Maintenance is minimal. For regular cleaning, a soft cloth and a quality gun lubricant are sufficient to keep the adjustment mechanisms working smoothly and to protect the finish. It’s important to avoid harsh solvents that could potentially damage the tritium vial’s seal over the long term, though this is a general caution for any tritium sights. Based on my experience, these sights are built to last for many thousands of rounds and years of consistent use, fulfilling their role as a long-term upgrade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory included with the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile is the serrated front sight, which is designed to complement the adjustable rear sight for a balanced aiming system. Kensight also makes the adjustable rear blade itself customizable, offering different heights from 0.150″ to 0.200″. This is crucial for users who may need to adjust for different barrel lengths, ammunition types, or personal shooting styles.
Beyond the direct components, the sight is designed to fit the standard Bomar BMCS dovetail, which is a widely recognized standard in the 1911 aftermarket. This compatibility means users aren’t locked into a proprietary system. While Kensight doesn’t offer a vast array of additional accessories for this specific sight set, their focus on precision manufacturing and providing essential, high-quality components like the adjustable rear blade and the Tritium insert means that further customization is often unnecessary.
Pros and Cons of **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile**
Pros
- Precision Adjustability: Audible and tactile clicks for precise windage and elevation adjustments.
- High-Quality Materials: Constructed from durable 4140 Chrome Moly Steel for exceptional longevity.
- Wire-EDM Machining: Guarantees the tightest tolerances for smooth operation and consistent performance.
- Low-Light Visibility: Features a Tritium insert for reliable aiming in dim conditions.
- Snag-Resistant Design: The flat profile and beveled edges minimize the chance of unwanted snags.
- Authentic Kensight Quality: Not to be confused with lesser alternatives, this is a premium product.
Cons
- Price Point: Premium features and manufacturing come with a higher cost compared to basic sights.
- Dovetail Specificity: Requires a specific Bomar BMCS dovetail cut on the slide, limiting direct fit on some models without modification.
- Blade Height Limitation: While adjustable within a range, the included blade height might require an additional purchase if it doesn’t perfectly match your firearm’s setup.
Who Should Buy **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile**?
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile is an excellent choice for serious 1911 owners who demand precision, durability, and enhanced low-light capability. This includes competitive target shooters, dedicated range enthusiasts, and individuals who carry their 1911 for personal defense and want a reliable, fine-tunable aiming solution. Anyone who appreciates meticulous engineering and understands the value of high-quality components will find this sight set a worthwhile investment.
Conversely, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly sight upgrade or if your 1911 slide does not feature the required Bomar BMCS dovetail cut, this set may not be suitable without additional gunsmithing work. Users who primarily shoot in bright daylight and have no need for night-time aiming might find the tritium feature an unnecessary expense, though the adjustable nature alone is a significant upgrade. For those who need a simple, fixed sight, other options would be more appropriate.
Conclusion on **Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile**
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/ Flat Profile stands out as a premium upgrade for the discerning 1911 shooter. Its combination of robust 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction, precise Wire-EDM machining, and user-focused features like audible clicks and a snag-resistant profile makes it a top-tier choice. The integration of Tritium for low-light shooting further solidifies its position as a versatile and dependable component. While the price reflects its advanced manufacturing and quality, the performance and durability it offers justify the investment for those seeking the best for their firearm.
For anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their 1911’s accuracy, especially with the added benefit of low-light capability, I wholeheartedly recommend the Kensight Bomar BMCS adjustable rear sight. It’s a testament to precision engineering and real-world application, providing a level of refinement that is evident from the moment it’s installed. If you value exactness and a component built to endure, this sight set will not disappoint.