The Real-Use Review: Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in
For years, I’ve relied on the precise feedback and tactile certainty of well-engineered firearm components. When my trusty competition 1911 started showing some slack in its sights, particularly on the elevation adjustment, it was time for a serious upgrade. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in quickly rose to the top of my list, promising a blend of crisp adjustments and robust construction that’s essential for serious target shooting. My current rear sight, while functional, had developed a slight wobble, leading to inconsistent shot placement during critical stages of a match.
Upon receiving the Kensight Bomar BMCS, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The heft of the 4140 chrome-moly steel felt substantial, and the matte black finish was even and free of imperfections. This sight felt built to withstand the rigors of repeated use and environmental exposure without complaint. I had briefly considered a simpler, fixed-notch rear sight to save a few dollars, but the need for precise, on-the-fly adjustments for varying distances and conditions steered me back towards a fully adjustable target sight. The immediate feeling was one of relief; this looked like a component that would restore confidence and precision to my platform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in to the Test
My testing grounds for this sight were primarily the local outdoor shooting range, simulating competition scenarios, and extended range sessions focused on accuracy drills. The sight was mounted on a well-maintained 1911 platform known for its tight tolerances. I subjected it to hundreds of rounds, from rapid fire sequences to deliberate, slow-fire precision shots at distances ranging from 15 to 50 yards.
First Use Experience
Installation was straightforward, fitting snugly into the existing Bomar-style dovetail cut on my slide. The audible clicks for both windage and elevation adjustments were distinct and reassuring, providing immediate tactile confirmation of each micro-adjustment. I appreciated the crispness of the edges on the sight blade, which seemed to enhance sight acquisition, even under pressure. There were no surprises or unexpected quirks; the operation was exactly as advertised, offering a smooth, positive feel with every turn of the adjustment screws.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and thousands of rounds, the Kensight Bomar BMCS rear sight has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The zero has held perfectly, with no drift or loss of adjustment. Despite exposure to dust, occasional light moisture from dew on the grass at the range, and varying temperatures, the mechanism remains smooth and precise. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth, and the matte finish has resisted superficial scratching remarkably well. Compared to previous adjustable sights I’ve used, which sometimes developed gritty movements or required frequent re-zeroing, this unit feels significantly more robust and dependable.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in is a precision-engineered component designed for the discerning 1911 shooter. Its core construction features a 4140 chrome-moly steel billet, which is Wire-EDM machined. This manufacturing process ensures extremely tight tolerances, translating directly into exceptionally smooth and repeatable adjustments. The sight comes standard with a 0.200-inch tall blade, a crucial dimension that ensures proper alignment with a corresponding front sight height.
The ability to request blade heights ranging from 0.150″ to 0.220″ further enhances its adaptability to various 1911 models and front sight combinations. This level of specificity is vital; too low or too high a blade will render the sight unusable without modification. The integrated windage and elevation adjustments provide positive, audible clicks, each representing a quantifiable change in point of impact, which is indispensable for precise zeroing and competition accuracy. Its dovetail mount type ensures a secure fit into the industry-standard slide cut found on most 1911 platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of a rear sight is to provide a clear, precise aiming point and facilitate accurate projectile delivery. The Kensight Bomar BMCS excels in this regard. Its crisp, sharp edges and well-defined serrations on the blade significantly improve sight picture clarity, allowing for faster and more confident target acquisition, particularly under time constraints. The ultra-smooth adjustments allow for minute corrections to windage and elevation, ensuring that shooters can dial in their zero with exceptional accuracy.
Where this sight truly shines is in its consistent performance. Each click imparts a predictable change, removing guesswork from sight adjustments. This is a significant strength when compared to sights with mushy or inconsistent detents. Its main weakness, if one could call it that, is its specialization; this is a target sight, and its features are geared towards precision shooting rather than general-purpose use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kensight Bomar BMCS is a testament to function over form, though it retains an aesthetically pleasing profile. The use of 4140 chrome-moly steel not only provides durability but also a satisfying weight that contributes to the overall feel of quality. The matte black finish is practical, reducing glare during outdoor shooting sessions, which is a common issue with more polished surfaces.
The serrations on the rear face of the sight blade are finely cut, effectively minimizing glare from light sources behind the shooter. The adjustment turrets are robust and easy to manipulate with a fingertip or a small tool, even with gloves on. While it doesn’t feature any specialized ergonomic grips, its solid construction and precise operation make it a joy to use. The well-defined serrations on the top edge of the sight body further aid in gripping and manipulating the sight during adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from a solid billet of 4140 chrome-moly steel and utilizing Wire-EDM machining, the durability of this sight is exceptional. It’s built for longevity and to withstand the repeated shock of live fire. I have experienced no signs of wear, cracks, or degradation in performance, even after thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping the adjustment mechanisms free of debris. A light application of a quality gun oil to the threads and adjustment screws periodically ensures continued smooth operation. Unlike some sights that might develop play in the adjustment screws over time, the tight tolerances achieved through Wire-EDM machining seem to prevent this. There are no obvious failure points, making it a component that should last indefinitely with basic care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in is sold as a set that typically includes a standard front sight with a serrated blade. This allows for immediate installation and use out of the box. The primary customization option lies in the availability of different blade heights, allowing shooters to precisely match their front sight for optimal sight radius and point of aim/point of impact. This adaptability is crucial, as not all 1911 slides and barrel lengths are created equal.
While Kensight offers various front sight styles and heights separately, this particular rear sight is designed to integrate seamlessly with its own brand’s front sights or other Bomar-style compatible front sights. The 0.200-inch tall blade is a key specification that dictates the necessary height of the accompanying front sight.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in
Pros
- Precision Wire-EDM Machining: Ensures extremely tight tolerances and ultra-smooth, repeatable adjustments.
- Audible Clicks: Provides positive tactile and auditory feedback for both windage and elevation adjustments, simplifying zeroing.
- Robust Construction: Made from 4140 chrome-moly steel for exceptional durability and longevity.
- Crisp Sight Picture: Sharp edges and well-defined serrations enhance target acquisition speed and clarity.
- Adjustable Blade Heights: Available in various heights (including the standard 0.200in blade) for precise tuning with different front sights.
Cons
- Specialized Use: Primarily designed for target and competition shooting, may be overkill for general self-defense.
- Price Point: Higher cost compared to fixed sights or less precisely manufactured adjustable sights.
- Requires Dovetail Cut: Needs a specific Bomar-style dovetail cut on the slide; not a direct drop-in for all 1911 models without slide modification.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in?
This Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in is an excellent choice for competitive pistol shooters, particularly those involved in disciplines like bullseye, precision pistol, or certain types of action shooting where fine-tuning point of impact is critical. It is also ideal for serious hobbyists who demand the utmost precision from their 1911 platform and appreciate the tactile feedback of high-quality adjustable sights. The audible clicks and solid construction make it a go-to for anyone looking to maximize their accuracy potential.
Individuals who should consider alternatives might be those looking for a simple, fixed sight for general-purpose self-defense where extreme adjustability isn’t a priority, or those with a limited budget. If your 1911 slide does not already feature a Bomar-style dovetail cut, you will need to factor in the cost and complexity of having a gunsmith perform the necessary slide modification. For optimal performance, pairing this rear sight with a compatible Kensight front sight, or another sight designed for the Bomar profile, is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ 0.200in is, without question, a premium component for the discerning 1911 shooter. Its Wire-EDM machined construction from 4140 chrome-moly steel delivers unparalleled precision, with smooth, audible clicks for windage and elevation that instill absolute confidence in every adjustment. The crisp sight picture and robust build quality ensure reliable performance under demanding conditions.
While its price point is higher than basic fixed sights, the value delivered in terms of accuracy enhancement and lasting durability is significant, making it a worthwhile investment for serious competitors and precision enthusiasts. I would wholeheartedly recommend this sight to any shooter who values fine-tuned accuracy and demands the best from their equipment. If you’re looking to wring the absolute best performance out of your 1911 target pistol, this Kensight sight is a stellar choice.