What to Expect from the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade
My search for an enhanced sight system for my well-worn 1911 platform led me to the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’m always looking for upgrades that offer both practical performance and enduring quality. The description of this sight, particularly its design for quicker target acquisition and its robust construction, immediately caught my eye. It promised a blend of competition-grade functionality with the durability needed for more demanding scenarios.
The catalyst for this upgrade was a need for improved sight visibility and quicker sight picture acquisition during dynamic shooting drills. My existing sights, while functional, lacked the clarity and speed I desired for both range work and defensive practice. I considered a few other brands, but the specific features of the Kensight, like its Beveled Blade design, suggested a thoughtful approach to user experience.
Upon receiving the sight, my first impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight felt substantial, and the machining was precise, hinting at a product built for longevity. There was an immediate sense of quiet confidence in its build, a feeling that this component was engineered to perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a familiar indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for dialing in new sights. I focused on basic drills like slow fire, timed strings, and drawing from a ready position to gauge the sight’s effectiveness in sight acquisition. The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade performed admirably, presenting a clear sight picture quickly.
Conditions were standard for range use, with consistent lighting and temperature. The sight’s crisp edges on the bevels indeed facilitated rapid sight alignment without snagging. There was a slight learning curve in adjusting the windage and elevation with the included tools, but it was intuitive for anyone familiar with target sights.
The most significant surprise was how much faster I could reacquire the front sight after each shot, a direct benefit of the sight’s design. I experienced no immediate issues or quirks, which is always a good sign with new firearm components.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including frequent range visits and dry-fire practice, this adjustable rear sight has held up exceptionally well. It has become a staple on my go-to 1911 for training and competition. The adjustments for windage and elevation remain crisp and hold their zero even after repeated range sessions.
Durability has been excellent; there are no visible cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. The 4140 chrome moly steel construction is evident in its resilience. Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only a light cleaning and lubrication after range days.
Compared to the basic factory sights I previously used, the improvement is night and day. It’s also held its own against some higher-end target sights I’ve encountered, offering a comparable level of precision and robustness.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade
Specifications
This sight is crafted from robust 4140 chrome moly steel, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of frequent use and recoil. It’s heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40, a critical factor for long-term durability and resistance to wear. The rear sight blade is partially serrated and measures 0.100 inches wide, designed to reduce glare and improve contrast.
The sight features a unique “Beveled Blade” design, which, as the product description notes, aids in quicker draw times and easier sight acquisition. This feature is crucial for shooters who need to get on target rapidly. The accompanying front sight, though not the primary focus of this review, incorporates a 0.060-inch diameter fiber optic rod, offering excellent visibility, especially in lower light conditions.
The flat base of the rear sight is noted as ideal for flat-topped slides or for shooters willing to file and blend it for a custom fit. This versatility in installation is a significant advantage for various 1911 models. The sight is compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts, a common standard on many customized and factory 1911 pistols, measuring 0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary job – providing accurate and adjustable aiming points – the Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade excels. The adjustments for both windage and elevation are precise, allowing for fine-tuning to specific ammunition and shooter preferences. I found that the clicks were distinct and held firm, preventing accidental shifts.
A significant strength is the sight’s contribution to faster target acquisition. The Beveled Blade design, coupled with the serrated rear face, genuinely helps in squaring up the sight picture more quickly, particularly during rapid fire sequences. Its primary weakness, if one can call it that, is that the precise adjustment might require a few range trips to dial in perfectly for all shooting scenarios, though this is inherent to all adjustable target sights.
Overall, this rear sight meets and exceeds expectations for a target-style adjustable sight, especially considering its intended application in competition and defensive shooting. It offers a significant upgrade over fixed sights in terms of adjustability and speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this sight is immediately apparent. The 4140 chrome moly steel feels substantial and well-finished, with a non-reflective black coating that resists scratching and wear. The machining is precise, with no rough edges or inconsistencies.
Ergonomically, the Beveled Blade design is a standout feature. It allows the shooter’s eye to quickly find the notch and align with the front sight, reducing the time spent acquiring the target. The serrations on the rear blade are a welcome addition, reducing glare from overhead lighting that can sometimes obscure a fixed sight.
The flat base offers a clean, professional look and a good foundation for installation. While it might require some fitting for certain slides, this customization potential is a hallmark of higher-end 1911 components. The adjustment screws are tactile and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on its construction and my extended usage, this Kensight rear sight is built for the long haul. The heat-treated steel should resist deformation and wear from thousands of rounds. I anticipate it will outlast many other parts on a firearm.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down after shooting and a light application of lubricant to the adjustment mechanisms are sufficient. There are no complex parts to worry about, and its robust design means it’s less susceptible to damage from minor impacts. I have noticed no obvious failure points.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade typically comes as a set with a compatible front sight. In my case, it included a contoured base fiber optic blade front sight, which integrates seamlessly with the rear sight for a superior sight picture. The fiber optic rod, with its 0.060-inch diameter, is well-shielded but highly visible.
While the base itself is flat for customization, Kensight offers various front sight options that can be paired with this rear sight, catering to different preferences and firearm configurations. The compatibility with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts means it can also work with many aftermarket front sights designed for that standard. No other specific accessories are typically bundled with just the rear sight unit itself.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade
Pros
- Exceptional adjustability for precise zeroing with different ammunition.
- Beveled Blade design significantly aids in quicker sight acquisition and draws.
- Robust construction using 4140 chrome moly steel ensures long-term durability.
- Partially serrated blade effectively reduces glare for improved sight picture clarity.
- High visibility fiber optic front sight (when purchased as a set) complements the rear sight perfectly.
Cons
- Requires fitting for slides that are not perfectly flat or precisely dimensioned to the sight’s base.
- Adjustment tools can be small and potentially easy to misplace if not kept organized.
- The price point, while justified by quality, may be higher than basic fixed sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade?
This sight is ideal for competitive shooters, especially those involved in disciplines like USPSA, IDPA, or other action shooting sports where speed and precision are paramount. It’s also an excellent choice for any 1911 owner looking to upgrade from fixed sights for enhanced defensive capabilities or more accurate range practice.
Individuals who prioritize a quality, durable firearm component and are willing to invest in performance upgrades will find this sight highly beneficial. Those with a flat-topped 1911 slide or who plan on customizing their firearm’s slide will also appreciate the installation flexibility.
Shooters who demand simplicity and prefer a fixed sight picture, or those on a very tight budget, might want to consider other options. However, for anyone seeking a tangible improvement in sight acquisition speed and aiming precision, this sight is a strong contender.
A recommended accessory would be a good set of precision punches or a specialized sight adjustment tool for easier and safer installation and adjustment.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight w/ Beveled Blade represents a significant upgrade for any 1911 platform owner seeking enhanced performance. Its combination of precise adjustability, durable construction from 4140 chrome moly steel, and thoughtful design features like the Beveled Blade makes it a standout choice. The ability to fine-tune the sight for specific needs, coupled with a noticeable improvement in sight acquisition speed, solidifies its value proposition.
For its price point, the performance and build quality are more than justified, offering a premium feel and function. I would not hesitate to recommend this sight to serious shooters, competitive enthusiasts, or anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 1911. It’s a component that clearly communicates Kensight’s commitment to quality and practical innovation in firearm sights.