Scope base for a Taurus model 72?

[Bowhunter57]

I have a Taurus model 72 (.22 Mag.) rifle and would like to install a scope on it, but the mount on Taurus' web site doesn't look like it can be mounted on my rifle.

Does anyone know, if the barrel has to be drilled and tapped?
Is the picture of the scope base for the Taurus semi-auto model 63 and there's a side mount for the model 72? www.taurususa.com/products/product-details.cfm?model=M72R-CH&category=Rifle

The iron sights are in a dove tail on the barrel and since the action ejects out the top of the reciever a side mount would make sense.

Your opinions and experience is appreciated.
Thank you, Bowhunter57

[njanear]

My understanding is that the rear sight has to be removed and the scope base affixed in that dovetail.  Then you need a L.E.R. scope or Red Dot to use it.  I haven't seen one in person myself, so I can't say what it looks like.  I don't know if anyone has even considered a side mount for these slick little rifles.

I just picked up a M72 SS Rifle myself and have toyed with the idea of the tang sight.  Guess I just need to shoot it with regular sights first to see how I like it.

[jh45gun]

Hey njanear, Welcome here first time I have seen your name here. When I had a couple of the Nagants I posted at your site quite a bit. I was one of the first to suggest using 32 Mags in them. I got rid of mine wish I would have kept one but went on to other guns. Still have a couple of Mosin Rifles though I really like them. Good to see you here. Jim