https://thegreatmodel8.net/

Have a Model 81 in .35 Rem that I would like to scope but not sure if I should. Rifle already has a Williams FP-81 peep sight installed and I have the Weaver side mount as it was sent with the rifle. Just wondering if it's a plus to have a scope on this rifle or not.
Date code on the rifle says it was made in 1948

What condition is your Model 81 in? Is it already drilled for a scope mount? If it is a nice gun and not already drilled and tapped for a scope mount, I would look around for another Model 81 in your caliber which either already has a scope mount or is already drilled and tapped for a scope mount. Of course, it is your rifle and you may do with it as you please. My eyes are getting old and I'm considering purchasing a Model 8 in .30 Rem with a scope. I would not drill and tap the Model 8 I already have as I believe it would decrease the value of a beloved firearm.

This is what she looks like. Very nice condition just wish I had a chance to shoot it.

Hardrada55 wrote: ↑Thu Jul 11, 2024 9:51 am What condition is your Model 81 in? Is it already drilled for a scope mount? If it is a nice gun and not already drilled and tapped for a scope mount, I would look around for another Model 81 in your caliber which either already has a scope mount or is already drilled and tapped for a scope mount. Of course, it is your rifle and you may do with it as you please. My eyes are getting old and I'm considering purchasing a Model 8 in .30 Rem with a scope. I would not drill and tap the Model 8 I already have as I believe it would decrease the value of a beloved firearm.

Thanks for the reply. I have been looking for an 81 in 30/35 Rem already drilled or with a scope but not having much luck. All the ones I'm finding are in 300 Savage. Some really nice and others just beat to hell.

Since your rifle already has a peep sight, why not just take it to the range and shoot it with that set up? I bet it will shoot pretty well just as is. You say that it has the Weaver side mount for a scope, but has it been drilled and tapped for that mount?

I shot a deer in Iowa last year with a peep sighted Model 8 in 35 Remington. A scope was not necessary, and I agree with hardrada55, I would not drill and tap a Model 81 as nice as you have there-I'd try to find one already scoped. Heck, that is half the fun, searching for a rifle and then finding the one you want.

Of course, if it has been D/T already, by all means put the Weaver mount on and get a scope for it.

This is just my two cents worth, since you asked...

Found you one. https://www.gunboards.com/threads/wts-r ... n.1259426/

Thanks for all the feedback. Even though the side mount came with the rifle I just can't bring myself to drill on mine. Think the last owner had the same issue, got the Weaver side mount but just couldn't bring themselves to drill new holes in such a nice Model 81.
Thanks very much for the link will check it out.