Where i shoot and the type of shooting done open sights are very rare and seldom used any way.
I understand the reason why that rifle had a fixed low power scope. Many times i have cranked my variable scopes to max for a long shot then been caught out on high magnification for a very close shot.
Just for you open sight guys and gals take your open sighted 22 out to the range and try shooting matchsticks at 25 yds/M then do it with a fine cross hair scope.