Please help identify this unique peep sight...

[tacticalbuddhist]

I recently picked up a Marlin Model 65/Ranger M34 (circa 1935) and it has a very unique peep sight. It is a bolt sleeve adjustable peep sight. Unfortunately, Numrich Gun Parts doesn't have a picture of the receiver sight for the 65 so I can't compare. Anyway, here are some pictures. Can you identify it? Does anyone have a picture of their Model 65 peep sight so I can see what the original looks like?

The peep sight has two discs (one hunting, one target). One of them screws into the bolt itself while the other one is in use. Also, the inside is square cut so the one not in use can be used to turn the windage screw.







I looked everywhere online and I can't find info on this sight.

Thanks,
Jeff

 

[GunsAmerica Fan]

I have several rifles that have proprietary peep sights that were built with the gun. The fact that the spare screws into the bolt itself is almost a guarantee that it came with the gun. Think about even an M1 Garand. It comes with an adjustable peep sight. Most FALs also do, as well as the CETME/HK 91, and many flat top AR clones.

 

[tacticalbuddhist]

That's what I would have though also, GA Fan. However, the peep sight that comes with the Model 65 is attached to the receiver through two screws and it leaves the bolt unmodified. Here is a picture of what the bolt looks like unmodified. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of a Model 65 with the peep sight installed so I am hoping someone else will.



Cheers,
Jeff

 

[GunsAmerica Fan]

There are all kinds of undocumented guns that come out from just about everyone, and until there is real collector value, the price book people don't really pay them any mind. My father was one of those guys with a milling machine and lathe in the basement, and guys like that do create all kinds of crazy stuff, but someone like that could also make their own peep site as well.

 

[Kernel]

Looks factory to me. This is supported by the fact that that the spare aperture fits integral to the bolt‘s cocking piece. It’s hard to imagine an aftermarket sight would integrate so perfectly. I doubt that’s coincidence. Was probably sold as a special “target” or “trainer” version. The fact that it’s uncommon just means they didn’t sell many, relative to the standard design. What’s the front sight look like? Any different than a typical Model 65?

 

[tacticalbuddhist]

http://books.google.com/books?id=a9...=onepage&q=Marlin model 65 peep sight&f=false

The front sight has a small silver bead with no front sight hood. According to the picture in this book, the Model 65-E which had the target sights used a receiver sight that was mounted on an extension plate. Maybe it is an expert gunsmithing job? It does look factory but all the research I have done has shown otherwise. Hmm... this would be so much easier if the rifle wasn't 75 years old.

Another option could be that the bolt came from a different model and was fitted for the Model 65.

-Jeff

 

[Kernel]

The fact that they offered another style of peep sight doesn’t automatically negate the factory theory. It just means they may have had more than one option. Perhaps they were parts left over from another run on another rifle and Marlin hung them on the M65 to use them up. Perhaps they had a slightly better margin vs. the other design and Marlin bean counters thought they could make a few more bucks. Could be lots of reasons.

If they were aftermarket, you’d think there would be some kind of maker’s mark. Most aftermarket parts have a name on them, or at least initials. If they are gunsmith specials they guy sure went above and beyond for an inexpensive .22. Then not doing anything to the front sight, after building such an elaborate rear sight “system“, seems odd. To me, it looks like it’s begging for a globe front. Or, maybe a military type post with wings protecting it on each side.

 

[tacticalbuddhist]

Kernel, your reasoning makes a lot of sense. I hadn't thought of that. Thanks.

 

[blackwalnut]

Re: peep sight on Marllin bolt 22

Hey Tactical you might have a Marlin Model 65E. They came with a peep sight from the factory. At the muzzle they had a hooded bead sight. You might reference Col. Brophys History of Marlin. This I understand is a great reference material or check with the Marlins Collectors Society. Good Luck with this search this is the kind of searches that make firearms collecting fun. At least to me.