peep sight

American  

noun

1. a plate containing a small hole through which a gunner peeps in sighting.

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peep sight British  

noun

1. an adjustable rear gun sight with a narrow aperture through which the target and the front sight are aligned when aiming

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Etymology

Origin of peep sight

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

When it stepped behind a tree, Gates drew only to find that the peep sight inserted into the bow string and through which she would aim was twisted.

From Washington Times

The No. 6 single shot has tapered barrel, case-hardened frame, genuine walnut stock and fore-end, rifle butt plate, rear and tang peep sight.

From Project Gutenberg

Through the peep sight in my Mannlicher the animal was perfectly visible, and when I fired, the bull dropped like lead, rolling over and over down the hill.

From Project Gutenberg

We had a match at target, distance 90 feet, with 22-calibre Stephens rifle; he used globe and peep sight, I used open sights.

From Project Gutenberg

With the peep sight, the line of sight is determined by the center of the peep and the top of the front sight.

From Project Gutenberg