This Kensight 1911 Front Sight incorporates a Fully Serrated Ramped Blade that effectively reduces glare in bright, backlit conditions and makes for a simple sight picture that's easy to acquire against light backgrounds and is the traditional favorite of both competitive target and bullseye shooters. In order to ensure the strength and integrity of our sights, Kensight Wire-EDM machines them from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and then heat treats the completed parts to a hardness of RC 38-40.
This Front Sight comes equipped with a 0.115" Wide Blade and features a Contoured Base that blends in nicely with most round-top or "carry melted" slide profiles, resulting in a clean looking installation that requires little (if any) filing to accomplish. Compatible with Novak type front sight dovetail cuts (0.330" x 65 Degree x 0.075") as typically found on both customized and factory 1911 pistols.
Technical Information
- Material: 4140 Chrome Moly Steel
- Blade Type: Fully Serrated
- Blade Width: 0.115"
- Sight Base: Contoured
- Sight Dovetail: Novak Style
- Dovetail Dimensions: 0.330" (Width) x 65° (Angle) x 0.075" (Depth)
Existing Front Sight Already Zeroed?
If you are only switching out an existing front sight and your pistol is already zeroed, simply measure your font sight height from the top of the sight to the top of the slide. (As shown in Figure 1) Use this same measurement to choose your correct sight height. If the exact size is not available, it is recommended that you use the next size higher and file the top of the front sight to reach your perfect zero.
Sight Radius Measurement
The sight radius is the distance between the rear sight, and the front sight where the eye makes contact when referring to iron sights.
The sight radius measurement is always taken from the face of the front sight, to the back of the rear sight blade. (As shown in Figure 2)
Impact Distance
The impact distance is the measurement of how far off your bullets are impacting, from your point of aim. If you are aiming at perfect center and your grouping is either high or low, how far off is it in inches? If you are impacting LOW you will need a SHORTER front sight. (As shown in Figure 3) If you are impacting HIGH you will need a TALLER front sight. (As shown in Figure 4)
Target Distance
The target distance can be based on just about any range. While 20 yards is a good distance to use, the industry standard is usually at 25 yards. The target distance will usually vary based on the pistol type (Target, Carry, and Compact Ect.) and shooters preference. The main concern is that you are shooting tight consistent groups before considering any changes to your front sight height.
The Formula for Figuring the Front Sight Height
IMPORTANT: When using this formula, note that all numbers are figured in inches.
- Measure your Sight Radius.
- Multiply your Sight Radius times your Impact Distance
- Divide your Target Distance in inches.
Example: If your sight radius is 6.9” and you are shooting 2” low @ 25yds (900 inches) You will need to shorten your front sight by 0.015” (6.9” × 2” = 13.8” ÷ 900” = 0.015”)
For The Perfectionists
If perfection is your goal, we recommend you install the rear sight and take the firearm to the range before purchasing your front sight. Whether you are just changing out just the front sight, or installing a complete sight set, you will have to know exactly where your bullet is impacting to figure for the perfect zero. You will need to have an existing front sight installed. You can try one of our recommended heights.
PRO TIP: To get the most range out of your adjustable sight, make sure the sight settings are perfectly centered. Turn the elevation screw until it stops. Now turn the other direction, count the clicks and divide by 2. This will be the perfect center of the adjustability settings. You can do the same for the windage adjustment if applicable. Next, take your pistol to the range and figure the above formula with the adjustable sight perfectly centered.
