Hi guys, I've been reading/researching here for awhile while saving up $$ for a muzzleloader. It will be my first and I want it to last for a long time (probably ten years or so). Is a stainless barrel worth the extra cost? I think I have just about made my mind up about a Knight Rolling Block and I was wondering if the $65 for stainless is worth it? I always clean my guns within 24 hours of shooting.
Also as far as scopes go, I'm thining Bushnell 3200 or Vortex Diamondback. Any opinions on those?
I can't see where stainless is a huge advantage in a muzzleloader. Black powder and all the substitutes I've ever tried are very corrosive (the residue draws moisture and causes rust quickly). Even a stainless barrel needs cleaned shortly after shooting. In my opinion much sooner than 24 hours! If I'm shooting in the field and it's going to be more than an hour or two before I'll get to give it a thorough cleaning I'm careful to run a few wet patches down the bore to get much of the fouling out, followed by dry patches to dry the bore. I've seen a bore show some rusty red residue on a patch after only a couple hours without cleaning. Not damaging rust, but it was starting!
I have blued steelbarrels over 10 years old and never a bit of rust inside or out by just carefully cleaning soon after shooting, and protecting them with a good oil.
The stainless might have an advantage if it comes to hunting in wet weather, but any barrel should last if carefully cared for.
The stainless barrel I like better then the blue, but there is really no advantage. They do not shoot better, they are a little easier to clean because you can see fowling on them easier. They do slow the rusting clock down when you are hunting, but it does not stop the clock. You still have to care for it like the blue model. I also have been looking at the Rolling Block and I think if I bought one, I would go to the stainless. That is just a preference on my part...
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I can make sure to clean ML sooner since that's required....I rarely hunt in the rain and it almost never snows in Eastern VA so I guess stainless might not be necessary....Any other opinions?
Stainless is a bit denser a bit more weight a little easier to get clean, and I believe it to be a little stronger, I know its more difficult to machine. Its mainly a personel choice. Lee
I'd get stainless or one with some good weather coating. I'm gonna get a new Triumph this coming year with the camo/weathershield. I hunted hard for three days during thunderstorms and constant showers this year and my little T/C Diamond had about every bolt and screw rusted shut.
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I guess I should pony up...it's really not that much $$ considering how long I plan to use the gun. Looking at the guns again, I think I like the looks better anyway. It is nice to look at your piece and smile while in the stand.
Sabotloader, what reasons would make the stainless far worth the cost in your opinion?
Stainless or not?
