Fox Collectors

It would seem unlikely that the peep site was installed by a Fox craftsman. JMO

IMO that is not a peep sight. Peep sights (aperture sights) on hunting guns are the rear sight, never the front. That one is on the muzzle end of the barrels. There are aperture front sights that are intended for bullseye target work, but that wouldn't be an application with this gun.

I believe it more possible that it is the remains of a bead that had an ivory, or other material, insert that has since become lost. But, it's just an opinion and, without the benefit of closer examination, could be wrong.

Good observation Stan

Looks to me like the peep stem from a Lyman tang sight as often seen on vintage Winchester and Marlin lever actions, but with the stem cut short. Anyone who thinks this might be a special order factory stock should look at the gaps at the head of the stock where it's supposed to abutt and be tight against the frame. Finis.

frank

Run away fast and don’t second guess yourself.

That sight might be one like this one on a GHE Parker Bros. 20-gauge --
with the color portion broken out.

That is exactly what I am thinking it was. Thanks, Dave, for the excellent pictures of that type sight. I did not have any.

Unless the gun is very cheap and you are prepared for a project. Let that one lay right where it is.

Here are some better pictures of the bead, looks similar to that Parker bead but without the color.

Balanced Action, check your PMs