The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch: Final Thoughts from Me
For those who demand precision and rapid target acquisition from their 1911 platform, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch presents a compelling upgrade. This rear sight, crafted from robust 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, aims to bridge the gap between competition-ready speed and practical everyday carry functionality. My own quest for improved low-light shooting and faster sight alignment on my custom build led me to explore this offering, seeking a tangible improvement over standard sights. Initial impressions upon unboxing revealed a solid, well-machined piece with a pleasingly matte black finish. It felt substantial, promising durability and precision. I’d briefly considered other adjustable sights and even some fixed tritium options, but the Bomar-style adjustable mechanism combined with the tritium inserts felt like the right balance for my needs. My immediate reaction was one of cautious optimism, a quiet confidence that this sight might just deliver on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch to the Test
My testing primarily took place at my local indoor shooting range, a controlled environment where I could systematically evaluate performance. I also conducted dry-fire drills at home in various lighting conditions, simulating a spectrum from bright daylight to near-total darkness. The sights performed admirably during these sessions, holding their zero through repeated firing and demonstrating good visibility. I specifically noted how the beveled edges facilitated a quicker sight picture, especially during dynamic shooting exercises, without snagging on holsters during practice draws.
Over several months of use, this Bomar-style adjustable sight has proven its mettle. It’s become a permanent fixture on my go-to 1911, consistently performing without issue. There are no visible signs of excessive wear, and the adjustment clicks remain crisp and positive, a testament to the quality of the internal mechanism. Maintenance has been minimal; a light wipe-down with a silicone cloth after range days is all that’s typically required. Compared to the budget adjustable sights I’ve used in the past, this Kensight unit feels significantly more refined and robust, offering a more reliable and satisfying user experience.
First Use Experience
The initial installation on my 1911 required a light filing to achieve a perfect fit in the dovetail, a common requirement for any aftermarket sight. Once seated, the adjustments were intuitive; the elevation screw provided precise incremental changes, and the windage adjustment was smooth and secure. I found the illuminated dots to be particularly effective during low-light testing, offering a distinct point of aim that was easy to pick up. There were no immediate issues or surprises, just a straightforward, albeit slightly involved, installation process followed by a noticeable improvement in sight acquisition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of consistent use, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch has held up exceptionally well. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction has resisted any signs of significant wear, and the tritium inserts remain bright and functional. I’ve found cleaning to be a breeze; a quick blast of compressed air to clear debris and a wipe-down suffice. Compared to other adjustable rear sights I’ve used, this Kensight model offers a superior balance of adjustability and ruggedness, making it a reliable choice for demanding use.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch
Specifications
This sight set is constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, ensuring considerable durability and resistance to wear. The rear sight features a Bomar-style adjustable mechanism for precise elevation and windage tuning, a critical feature for competitive shooters and those seeking refined accuracy. The rear sight blade includes a deep sight notch, designed to provide a clear sight picture with a wider field of view around the front sight. For low-light conditions, both the rear and front sights are equipped with Trijicon tritium inserts. The rear sight typically features green tritium dots with a white outline, while the front sight, a ProGlo tritium model, boasts a lumi orange outline around its tritium insert for high visibility. This combination offers an excellent contrast for rapid sight acquisition.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this sight set is to provide accurate and reliable aiming solutions, and it excels in this regard. The adjustable nature of the rear sight allows for meticulous zeroing, enabling shooters to fine-tune their point of impact with precision. I found the beveled edges on the rear sight not only prevented snagging but also contributed to faster sight acquisition by drawing the eye towards the sight picture. The contrast provided by the green and orange tritium inserts, coupled with white and orange outlines respectively, proved exceptionally effective in varying light conditions, from dim indoor ranges to dusk outdoors. This sight set comfortably meets and often exceeds the expectations for an adjustable target sight.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch prioritizes both function and form. The beveled blade is a key ergonomic feature, reducing sharp edges and facilitating a smoother draw from holsters or pockets, a detail many combat-oriented shooters will appreciate. The deep sight notch on the rear sight, paired with the bright outline on the front sight, creates a clear, dominant front sight picture. The robust 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction gives the sight a substantial and high-quality feel. Its contoured base is specifically designed to ensure a uniform fit with round-top 1911 slides, minimizing installation complications.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, this sight set is built for long-term durability. The material is known for its hardness and resistance to abrasion, making it suitable for the rigors of frequent use and potential impacts. The Trijicon tritium inserts are sealed and are rated for a significant number of years of illumination, generally around 12 years, before significant dimming occurs. Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning to remove debris and a light lubrication will keep the adjustment mechanisms functioning smoothly. There are no apparent weak points that would suggest premature failure under normal operating conditions for this type of firearm accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch is designed to work with standard Novak type front sight dovetail cuts, measuring 0.330″ x 65 x 0.075″. This compatibility means it can be paired with a vast array of aftermarket front sights. While the set typically includes the rear sight and a matching tritium front sight, it’s important to note that some distributors might offer variations or additional front sight options. The primary customization comes from the adjustable nature of the rear sight, allowing users to fine-tune their zero precisely. No additional tools are usually included, as installation typically requires specialized sight-pushing tools, which are not part of this specific product offering.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch
Pros
- Precision Adjustability: The Bomar-style mechanism offers highly accurate and repeatable adjustments for both elevation and windage, crucial for fine-tuning accuracy.
- Excellent Low-Light Visibility: The combination of Trijicon tritium inserts with contrasting outlines (green rear, orange front) provides outstanding sight acquisition in dim light conditions.
- Durable Construction: Made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, this sight is built to withstand the stresses of regular firearm use.
- Snag-Free Design: The beveled blade and deep sight notch minimize the risk of snagging on clothing or holsters, a significant advantage for concealed carry or competition.
- Improved Sight Picture: The deep sight notch enhances the shooter’s ability to focus on the front sight, leading to quicker and more precise aiming.
Cons
- Installation Can Require Fitting: While designed for standard Novak cuts, minor filing or professional gunsmithing might be necessary for a perfect fit on some 1911 slides.
- Price Point: At $210.13, it represents a significant investment for a single set of sights, placing it in the premium category.
- Front Sight Dependency: The effectiveness of the sight picture is dependent on pairing with a compatible front sight, and while Kensight offers good options, it’s an additional consideration.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch?
This rear sight set is an excellent choice for competitive 1911 shooters who need the ability to make precise sight adjustments for different distances and conditions. It’s also a strong contender for individuals seeking a high-quality upgrade for their carry pistol, especially if they frequently train or operate in low-light environments. Those who value durability and a robust build will find the 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction highly appealing. However, shooters on a tight budget or those who prefer fixed sights might want to explore less expensive options. If you’re comfortable with minor fitting requirements or have access to a gunsmith, this sight will likely serve you very well. I’d recommend pairing this with a high-quality front sight from Kensight or a reputable brand known for tritium inserts to maximize its potential.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Night Sight Set w/Deep Sight Notch is a premium upgrade that delivers on its promises of precision, durability, and low-light performance. The Bomar-style adjustability, combined with the robust 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction and the bright Trijicon tritium inserts, makes it a top-tier choice for discerning 1911 owners. While the price point is substantial, the quality and enhanced shooting experience justify the investment for those who demand the best from their firearm’s sights. I can confidently recommend this sight set to competitive shooters and serious handgun enthusiasts looking for a reliable and highly functional upgrade. If you’re ready to elevate your 1911’s performance, particularly in challenging lighting, this Kensight sight is definitely worth considering.