winchester m17

I have a single shot (currently waiting for spring and follower to install) winchester mod 1917 in .308 that still has the "rabbit" ears on it and was looking to either mill or file them off so as to flatten the top for easier scope mounting.
My question is would this weaken the action at all around the top of the receiver?.
Or alternatively if someone is interested i would seriously consider selling it to finance another project i have underway.
Stuart