Model 53 Question

[DARE]

I have a 1st year Model 53 4-screw #K441135. Shipped to Nash Hardware Company, Ft. Worth, Texas May 21, 1961.
Has a hole in the top strap. Have included a photo. My guess is the gun had a scope mounted at some time. If you remove the rear sight, thinking this hole and the one where the rear sight attaches were set up for that.
Has anyone ever seen such a set up? Or have another theory for the hole?
Thanks for your help.

 

[Retired W4]

Can't see the rear sight leaf screw hole, which would have been over the BC gap back then. Strange.

 

[DARE]

Here is a pic of the rear sight from above. Think it may be the angle of my photo that keeps you from seeing the front hole for the rear sight. I can see the hole above the rear end of the barrel. Is that called the forcing cone?

 

[gmborkovic]

does the rear screw use a threaded T-slot nut? No hole in the frame.

 

[DARE]

Do not know how the rear screw attaches. Have not tried to remove it. I'm not much of a gun smith.

 

[AudieMurphy]

you cant see the sight hold down screw because its on top of the rear of the barrel. usually a mount for a scope has at least 2 holes...if it bugs you that much get it welded up or put a plug in it

 

[series guy]

I would bet you are right about previously having a scope attached.

 

[rck281]

The rear part of the mount would have fit in the slot visible when the sight is removed. I, also don't see the hole for the front screw of the rear sight. On this age gun, the hole is usually over the barrel/cylinder gap. It was later moved farther forward.