Putting the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight to Work
For years, the iconic 1911 platform has been a canvas for customization, and for serious shooters looking to wring every ounce of precision from their cherished handguns, the sights are often the first—and most impactful—upgrade. This is precisely where the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight enters the picture. It’s not just another rear sight; it’s a modernized interpretation of a legendary design, engineered to offer superior visibility and adjustability. My journey to this particular optic began with a persistent itch for better target acquisition, especially under less-than-ideal lighting conditions and during rapid firing drills. The factory sights on my trusty 1911, while functional, lacked the refinement needed for competitive shooting or even just consistent, tight groups at longer distances.
I’d been eyeing various adjustable target sights, exploring options from established brands and niche manufacturers alike. My primary objective was to find something that offered a clear sight picture, precise click adjustments, and the robust build quality necessary to withstand the rigors of repeated use. After sifting through forums and product comparisons, the Kensight Bomar BMCS stood out due to its specific design elements that promised to address my needs. I considered simpler fixed sights for their ruggedness, but the desire for fine-tuning windage and elevation was a non-negotiable for my pursuit of accuracy. My first impression upon unboxing this Kensight sight was one of solid engineering; the weight felt substantial, and the machining appeared exceptionally clean. It offered an immediate sense of confidence, a stark contrast to the plastic-like feel of some lower-tier aftermarket options.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight to the Test
My testing regimen for the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight was comprehensive, focusing on scenarios that mirrored typical competitive shooting and serious recreational use. I fitted it to a well-maintained Colt Series 70 Government model, a platform known for its sensitivity to sight adjustments. The initial installation was straightforward, slotting neatly into the existing Novak-style dovetail cut, which is a testament to the precision of its manufacturing.
First Use Experience
The initial range session was on a bright, sunny afternoon at an outdoor range. The immediate difference was striking. The deeper notch of the rear sight, coupled with its serrated face, significantly reduced glare, providing a much cleaner contrast against the front sight post. Adjusting the windage and elevation clicks felt tactile and precise; each “click” was distinct, and I could feel confident that each adjustment corresponded directly to a minute change in point of impact. This optic excelled in its primary role: facilitating faster sight acquisition and more accurate shooting.
Over the following weeks, I subjected this rear sight to a variety of conditions. This included early morning sessions when light was still building, and late afternoon drills as shadows began to lengthen. Even in these lower-light scenarios, the sight performed admirably. The beveled blade design, while subtle, did seem to help in peripheral awareness without obscuring the target area. I also experienced a light drizzle during one session, and the serrations on the blade seemed to shed moisture effectively, maintaining a good grip even with slightly damp hands. The learning curve was minimal; if you understand basic sight adjustments, this Bomar-style sight is intuitive. My only minor surprise was how much I appreciated the finer details of the serrations and bevels, elements I might have overlooked in a spec sheet but which proved their worth in practical application.
Extended Use & Reliability
After approximately three months of consistent use, perhaps 15 range days ranging from casual plinking to dedicated precision work, the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight has held up remarkably well. There are no discernible signs of loosening in the adjustment screws or any wobble in the sight blade itself. The heat treatment and 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction are clearly paying dividends; the sight still looks as sharp as it did on day one, with no noticeable scratches or wear beyond the faintest rub marks in the dovetail where it interfaces with the slide.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth after each range trip, along with an occasional blast of compressed air to clear any debris from the adjustment mechanisms, is all that has been required. I haven’t needed to use any specialized lubricants, which is a major plus. Compared to some other adjustable sights I’ve used, which can become stiff or lose their detent over time, this Kensight unit maintains its crisp adjustment feel. It definitely outperforms budget fixed sights and even some more expensive adjustable alternatives that I’ve encountered in terms of long-term precision and tactile feedback.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight
Specifications
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight is a precision-engineered component designed for discerning 1911 owners. Its construction begins with 4140 Chrome Moly Steel, a material renowned for its strength and durability, heat-treated to a hardness of RC 38-40. This ensures it can withstand the shock and vibration of countless live fire cycles. The sight blade features a 0.100” wide blade that is partially serrated with a fine texture, designed to reduce glare and improve contrast.
A key design element is the deeper notch made possible by a slightly taller blade, which promotes longer light bars on either side of the front sight post. This enhances visibility and aids in rapid sight acquisition. The blade itself is angled at 45 degrees and beveled to facilitate quicker draws and minimize obstruction of peripheral vision around the target. The windage and elevation adjustments are finely calibrated, offering precise point-of-impact corrections with each audible and tactile click. This rear sight is designed to pair seamlessly with a contoured base fiber optic front sight (often sold separately or as a set, the provided description implies a pairing with a specific front sight), which features a 0.060” diameter fiber optic rod for superior light gathering. The base of the rear sight is typically flat, making it suitable for pistols with flat-topped slides or for custom fitting. Its compatibility is primarily with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330″ x 65° x 0.075″), a common standard on many factory and customized 1911 pistols.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function – aiming and hitting a target – the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight performs exceptionally. Its primary strength lies in its ability to facilitate rapid and precise sight alignment. The deeper notch and contrasting serrations provide a significantly clearer sight picture than many standard factory sights. This translates directly to tighter groups and improved confidence during rapid-fire drills. The adjustability is precise, allowing for fine-tuning of the point of impact with minimal effort.
However, the effectiveness of this sight is intrinsically linked to the front sight it’s paired with. While the description mentions a specific fiber optic front sight, the performance of the rear sight alone is excellent for clarity and adjustability. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is that it demands a compatible front sight to truly unlock its full potential for enhanced light gathering and rapid acquisition. For shooters accustomed to basic fixed sights, there is a slight learning curve to master the precise adjustments, but this is inherent to any adjustable target sight. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a target-oriented rear sight at its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight is a masterful blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. The use of 4140 Chrome Moly Steel imparts a robust, high-quality feel. The finish is typically a matte black, which is both functional in reducing glare and pleasing to the eye, fitting well with the aesthetic of most 1911 pistols. The beveled edges and serrated blade are not just for show; they contribute positively to handling and visibility.
Ergonomically, the sight is designed for shooters who prioritize deliberate aiming. The deep notch and adjustable features encourage a focused sight picture. While the flat base is designed for easy fitting, it does require a pistol with a corresponding flat-top slide or the willingness to blend it for a truly seamless installation. The click adjustments are well-defined, offering positive tactile feedback without being overly stiff. There’s no significant learning curve beyond understanding sight adjustment principles; the design is inherently user-friendly for its intended purpose.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight is built to last. The 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and professional heat treatment suggest it’s designed for heavy, long-term use. Under normal shooting conditions, I anticipate this sight will remain functional and maintain its zero for the lifespan of the pistol. Potential failure points are minimal with this type of design; the most likely issues would arise from extreme shock or improper installation, neither of which is a fault of the sight itself.
Maintenance is commendably simple. A light application of gun oil or a silicone cloth is sufficient to keep the blued finish protected and the moving parts (adjustment screws) free of debris. It’s essential to ensure the adjustment screws remain clean to maintain the crispness of the clicks. No specialized tools are required for routine care, making it a low-maintenance upgrade. For those who shoot frequently, a periodic check of the tightness of the dovetail fit is always advisable for any rear sight.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight primarily functions as a standalone component, though it is designed to be part of a sight system. The product description explicitly mentions its pairing with a contoured base fiber optic front sight, which is highly recommended to capitalize on the sight’s capabilities. While specific accessories for the rear sight itself are limited due to its integrated design, the compatibility with Novak type dovetail cuts is a crucial aspect, ensuring it fits a wide range of popular 1911 pistols.
Customization is primarily in the form of adjusting its windage and elevation to perfectly match your shooting style and ammunition. The partially serrated blade is a functional customization that enhances usability. While not a “customization option” in the traditional sense, the flat base allows for skilled gunsmiths to blend it to the contour of a specific slide, offering a more integrated aesthetic if desired. It’s not a product that typically comes with a plethora of accessories; its value is in its precise function and robust build.
Pros and Cons of Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight
Pros
- Superior Target Acquisition: The deeper notch and beveled, serrated blade significantly enhance visibility and contrast, allowing for faster sight alignment.
- Precision Adjustability: Fine, tactile clicks for both windage and elevation offer precise zeroing and repeatable adjustments.
- Exceptional Durability: Constructed from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and heat-treated to RC 38-40, this sight is built for long-term, heavy-duty use.
- Reduced Glare: The partially serrated blade effectively minimizes distracting reflections, even in bright light.
- Modernized Classic Design: It updates the beloved Bomar design for contemporary shooting needs without sacrificing proven functionality.
Cons
- Requires Compatible Front Sight: To achieve optimal performance, especially with light gathering, it’s best paired with a specific front sight (like the mentioned fiber optic).
- Flat Base May Need Blending: The flat base may require custom fitting by a gunsmith for pistols with a radiused slide, adding an extra step for a seamless look.
- Higher Price Point: As a precision target sight, it represents a significant investment compared to basic factory sights.
Who Should Buy Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight?
This Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight is an excellent choice for serious 1911 shooters looking to maximize their firearm’s accuracy and aiming potential. It is ideal for competitive shooters in disciplines like Bullseye, IDPA, or USPSA where precise sight adjustments are critical. Enthusiasts who frequently practice precision shooting or reload their own ammunition will also benefit immensely from its adjustability and clarity. Furthermore, anyone who has upgraded their 1911 with a flat-topped slide or is willing to have a sight professionally fit will find this optic a superb addition.
Individuals who should likely skip this optic are those seeking a simple, no-fuss fixed sight for general self-defense or casual plinking where extreme precision isn’t the primary concern. If you prefer a highly visible three-dot system or are looking for the most budget-friendly upgrade, this sight might be overkill. For those who intend to buy, consider pairing it with a high-quality fiber optic front sight for the best possible sight picture and light-gathering capabilities. A reliable gunsmith for professional installation and blending (if needed) is also a wise consideration to ensure optimal performance and fit.
Conclusion on Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight
The Kensight Bomar BMCS Beveled Serrated Blade Adjustable Target 1911 Rear Sight is, without a doubt, a premium upgrade for any discerning 1911 owner. It successfully modernizes a classic design, offering enhanced visibility, superior adjustability, and exceptional durability. The craftsmanship is evident, from the robust 4140 Chrome Moly Steel construction to the precise machining of the adjustment mechanism and blade serrations.
The value proposition here is clear: you are investing in a sight designed for serious accuracy and built to withstand the demands of regular use. While the price point is higher than basic sights, the tangible improvements in sight picture, precision, and longevity justify the investment for those who demand the best from their shooting experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend this Kensight Bomar rear sight to any dedicated 1911 shooter looking to elevate their pistol’s aiming capabilities. If you’re committed to accuracy and appreciate fine engineering, this optic will not disappoint; it’s a choice that pays dividends with every well-aimed shot.