Jniedbalski, The hood normally stays on. It is hard to get off. I only took it off for the photo. The front blade is so thin I wouldn't risk damaging it. But you are right, I can see and aim much better without the hood. I suppose what I should do is make a bigger round hood to use in the field should I want to use the rifle with open sights.
Something like this.
jsizemore, I'm thinking of your suggestion to use a dab of nail varnish on the front bead. It would make it bigger for a start.
I'm debating whether to buy a brick of Eley Club. The stuff seems to shoot well in other rifles too. Today a fellow at the range was showing me his SX results and they were impressive! But then he has a brand new quality rifle. At least I know the Eley Club works in the Mauser.