I see your point. Maybe they're just a back-up, or maybe it's just a matter of this being the time to mount them, while the build is underway and before the bluing is done.. I know I've never been able to use open sights, even with young eyes. It's always been an aperture for me, or a scope. Personally, I've never liked the look of a rifle without some sort of sights mounted, even if it's going to be used primarily with a scope. A bare barrel is my "spaniel without ears"!