RE: The old debate
I say to each his own. Some people can make great shots with iron sights, and others can't. The same is true with scopes, although I think that low magnification is a real help in the field to the average hunter.
I have a lousy astigmatism, and while I enjoy firing rifles with iron sight out to 100-200 yards, I feel more confident usinga scope out to 250-300, and so that's what I hunt with.
As for using iron sights for a challenge, that's not my game. I hunt toenjoy the outdoors and fill the freezer. It's challenging enough without reducing my shooting range because I can't see far enough for a good shot just after sunrise or before sunset.