Peep or 1x scope on Lever?

[Kjay]

I'm debating on putting a Williams peep or a Nikon 1x scope on a Winchester 94. I'm not that concerned with the extra weight or bulk of the scope but more a slowing of getting on target (snap shot?). Anyone have any experience with a 1x scope or opinions? Thanks.

 

[patentmike]

I've tried both and prefer the peep. Whatever works for you, but it is a lever gun after all, so if it's a tie you've got to go with the peep.

 

[Gewehr98]

Ancient 2.25x scope.

On my Winchester Model 94:

 

[steveno]

use the peep sight. I think that putting a scope on a 94 would ruin one of it's virtues in that it is a very easy rifle to carry.

 

[HankL]

What's wrong with the buckhorns that are supposed to be on the rifle? Just Curious.

 

[Redlg155]

If you aren't concerned with the "classic" look then you might also consider a electronic dot type optic such as the Aimpoint series. They offer extremely quick sight aquisition.

Good Shooting
Red

 

[ChristopherG]

I have a Marlin 1894 with a Lyman peep sight and Williams fiber optic front sight; it's a fast, accurate sighting system.

I have another Marlin 1894 with a Lyman 2.5 x 28 IER 'Scout' scope on it; it is a faster and more accurate sighting system.

The scope does change the balance point of the gun a little, but not much; you can tote it quite easily by the front of the receiver, which is not encumbered by the scope or mount (since the scout scope is forward mounted on an xs scout mount).

Both are excellent. If I had only one 1894, it would have both, with the scout scope mounted on Leupold QuickRelease Weaver rings (as mine is).

 

[MrMurphy]

XSS makes an excellent large aperature sight for fast accurate shooting. I've tried one on a Marlin 1894 and it WORKS.

 

[mainmech48]

I prefer a receiver sight for a couple of reasons:

They're cheaper than most high-quality 'scopes. A Williams 'Foolproof' or a Lyman 66A run about $70 retail. Used ones in perfect shape can be had at the shows for much less, especially in the most common applications such as your 94.

I can acquire a good sight picture on my target more quickly with one. YMMV, given a 1X, since it's basically a 'tube'sight with no magnification.

With the exception of a 'Scout' mount, I find that a 'scope makes field carry at the natural balance point somewhat awkward and less secure on almost any LA carbine or rifle.

They're less likely to be damaged in transport or hard use. Their adjustment mechanism is much less delicate and they can't 'fog-up'. Should you get water or debris in the aperture, a quick puff of air will generally clear it. Try that with any optical set-up.

Personally, I think that the only real advantage to a 'scope is in the magnification. Arguments involving the number of 'sighting planes' aside, the only practical advantage IMO is in being able to place your shot better because you can see your optimum target area better. No magnification, no advantage, IMHO.

 

[longrifleman]

Many years ago I was setting up a Marlin 336 with a low power sight the way you are discussing. I wanted a Weaver K1.5 but the dealer didn't have one but did have a K-3 (3 power). He gave me a good deal so I took it. I've never regretted it. Also, as I have gotten older the scope is easier to use for me than a peep. Your eyes may vary.

Here's an idea. Due to the differences in mounting put the peep on the Winchester as scopes are kinda ugly and akward on them and go buy a Marlin and put a scope on it.

mainmech's description of all scope's problems is right on, except that I've never felt any problems with balance. The K-3 is short and doesn't weigh much so other rifles may feel differently.

 

[bernie]

What about a scoper for the purpose of gathering more light? I have killed deer with an M1 rifle, but the scope does give that extra 10 minutes or so. I have often wondered if a larger aperture would fix the "low light" shooting problem. If it is getting dark, the front sight of the M1 would disappear against the deer. The scopes do not seem to do this for me. Perhaps a larger aperture would make a good experiment for me to try? Anyway, after all of that rambling, I have a scope, but would prefer an aperture on mine IF it will work at dusk.

 

[Bwana John]

Under 50 years old, peep sight. Over 50 years old, scope.