I for one was always told once that if you can't hit something the size of an apple from 50 yards with open sights you need to learn how before going to a scope.
i've always used peep sights when hunting. I think it is just one way to give the deer a better chance and make my hunt a little more rewarding.

as for scopes i see nothing wrong with them. I use one on my 22. and it shoots just as good as with a peep sight for me...the only advantages i see with a scope is if your hunting the first or last 15 minutes of hunting time. and shots beyond 200 yards.

but i've been told that a peep sight is good out to 300 yards if sighted right. I use one on my 30/30 and i can see till my shooting hours end.

but thats just me....