NitroX:
I have not experienced any issues with scope clearance while manipulating the safety. The Mauser scope mount easily offers enough clearance for my 1" Zeiss 3-9x42 Diavari and would assume 30mm tubes would be just fine as well. Although once again, as you point out, practice is paramount. If one is used to a wing type safety you will likely revert back to that "muscle memory" exercise and forget that the M03 is in your hands. I have also not experienced any issues with the safety/cocking engagement in so far as noise is concerned. There is a signature but I would rate it lower than most M70 style safety mechanisms.