In reply to:

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My first reaction is to say no scope on a rifle which would be used for elephant, but there might be some exceptions. In a hunting situation, certainly the use of a scope should present little problem for the initial shot. If the rifleman has lost the visual acuity to see both front and rear sight, a properly mounted low power scope might be better option for him. In any case the scope should be in QD mounts, so that it can be removed quickly without tools should it become damaged, or should the rifleman anticipate very close action. My own rifle wears a scout scope, so scope eye will not be a problem for me.

In the case of a guide or PH, who is responsible for the safety of his clients, I would suggest he leave his scope at home.

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I believe the above opinion is not far from what I myself would have said! I've done some Dangerous game hunting in Africa, as well as in Alaska, and Canada. I also have a lot of experience with DGR rifles, single shot, bolt and double rifles for some of the largest chamberings used on big animals. Haveing said that, I don't see why BOOMER'S opinion would be any less valid than mine! To me his explanation, is nothing more than the use of common sense!

Many find scopeing a double rifle to be herecy, but I say if your eyes require the use of a scope, it would be stupid not to use one, especially when dealing with dangerous game. As BOOMER says, that scope should always be in quality QD Rings, and bases! Close in, the scope isn't needed by even the blindest person who could shoot well with a scope. A low powered scope, however, zeroed with both eyes open for shooting gives up nothing, in field of vision, to iron sights .

IMO, if it fits your needs, use what ever sight you want, and don't worry about the hard heads, who tell you there is only one way!

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..........Mac >>>===(x)===>
DUGABOY1, and MacD37 founding member of DRSS www.doublerifleshooterssociety.com
"If I die today, I have had a life well spent, for I've been to see the Elephant, and smelled the smoke of Africa!"

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