iron sights on a bolt hunting rifle

[Wingshooter]

This has probably been discussed at length previously, but I couldn't find it.

I have been looking at new rifles lately, and irons almost seem to be a thing of the past. All of my bolt rifles have been purchased used, and they all have iron sights. Maybe I am just old school, but if I can't shoot the gun without a scope, then I fell like I am getting ripped off. Don't get me wrong, I like using a scope, but I can mount a scope on a gun with irons just fine.

I am planning a hunt out West next year, and I want a .300 Win Mag bolt gun... [hold your breath] ...with iron sights. It is difficult to even find that setup online anymore. If I bust up my scope in the mountains on a multi-day hunt/camping trip, I still want to be able to shoot the gun. If this was going to be a gun to hunt with locally, then it wouldn't be a big deal I guess.

Maybe it's just a cost of production thing, but my choices in rifles have been dramatically reduced. I have shot more deer and other game with irons than I have with a scope, and I won't buy this 300 without them.

Am I the only one that sees the value of the iron sight, or am I just living in the past???

[roverboy]

There's nothing wrong with good iron sights. I said good iron sights because some take a lot of getting used to. Most new rifles on the market don't have'em anymore, just like you have noticed. You may have to have some good sights put on. I hope you find what your looking for. If not, you can find great sights in Brownells or Midway Usa.

[Guest pfries]

I believe the Ruger m77 African model comes standard with sights and is available in .300 win mag.

Do not know if it interests you or not.

[peejman]

I can't imagine owning a rifle without iron sights. I know the newer rifles don't come with irons to save a few $$, but that's a few $$ well spent IMO. I presume your best bet is to find an older used rifle. It'd prolly widen your search if you're a little flexible on caliber.

[Chris]

One of the reasons I like the Ruger Gunsite Scout so much are the iron sights.

Ruger® Gunsite Scout Rifle Models

[Caster]

Try CZ USA. They have several models with open sights in calibers from 7 mag to 300 mag; up to 505 gibbs and their single set trigger is AWESOME!!!! I love my 527 and the next bolt gun I buy will be another CZ.

CZ-USA -> Product Categories

My recommendation would be:

CZ-USA -> CZ 550 Medium Battue

[Jonnin]

I think you are making a big deal over a small issue... if you picked out something you like the most, a smith can put sights on it for you and that way you can get whatever type you like, for a little more money. If you are not set on the gun you picked out, there are a number that still have iron as others have said.

[gregintenn]

You can always put sights on a rifle. I sort of like the looks of a front sight on a bolt rifle barrel, but for me it's mostly decoration. Most people use scopes on a high power rifle, and would rather save the cost of the sights than pay extra for something they consider in the way.

Consider buying a classic, such as a pre 64 Model 70 Winchester, or a Browning Safari. It'll have sights, and will also gain value as time goes by.

[Oh Shoot]

The SHTF/EOTWAWKI in me, however tin foilish it may be, calls for iron sights on every long gun I buy.

- OS

[Caster]

The SHTF/EOTWAWKI in me, however tin foilish it may be, calls for iron sights on every long gun I buy.

- OS

I agree in theory, though admittedly not in practice.

[DaveTN]

Remington discontinued the 700 BDL with fixed sights in 300 win mag, but they still offer it in 300 RUM.

Ruger offers the African in 300 win Mag with fixed sights.