I know you know this, but it seems you need to hear it told again. The rifle can shoot just as well with or without a scope. The scope only changes how well you can see the target and pick your POA. Given an appropriate target which accommodates 100yrd shooting with iron sights, you should should be able to challenge your scoped groups. Of course - if you're using the same "normal sized" targets you used with the optic, then you'll struggle to maintain a consistent POA from one shot to the next - so you have to change your target. And of course, if you're wanting to hunt, none of that matters - we don't shoot groups on deer, so being able to place that POA where it needs to be when it matters is the key. If the rifle shot 1.5" with the optic, then it'll still do the same now, you just need to use a target which helps you find center, get the sights aligned, and then practice delivering shots on target with a repeatable POA.