Optima - can't decide

[JW]

I am looking at a 50 cal CVA Optima black synthetic stock, SS barrel with Tasco 3-9 40 mm mil dot scope and just can't decide. I have never shot one. I do own a Genesis I do like.

Any pros or cons I should look for - it is used and the pics it appears in good shape.

How easy to clean?

Will it need a BH209 conversion to shoot that powder?

Any other Brand I should consider?

I am too new to inlines so look to you guys who shoot a tone for your comments both good or bad.

Thanks for any feedback

Dave...JW

[chaded]

I think the best thing would be if you can to go somewhere that you can shoulder the rifle and see if it "fits" you. I don't own one but I just set one up and shot my brother in laws and they are nice guns. They will shoot BH209 fine and I wouldn't see why they wouldn't be easy to clean up. My brother in laws shot pretty good too, I think it boils more down to personal preference.

[quake]

Originally Posted by chaded

I think the best thing would be if you can to go somewhere that you can shoulder the rifle and see if it "fits" you.

This is good advice.

I'm not real comfortable buying a firearm (especially a muzzleloader) without being able to see it in person first. Sometimes people are not completely honest or forthcoming with info regarding condition of the gun. I always wonder about the condition of the bore when I see a gun on a auction site.

Ask the seller to post a picture of the bore with some back-lighting. This isnt always foolproof but it's better than no picture at all and buying "blind". The fact it's stainless helps but doesnt mean it can't be rusted, or worse yet pitted.

I have not owned an Optima but have heard some good things about their accuracy. Mountain Devil loves his. I would say that design would be pretty easy to clean. Most break-actions are easy to clean.

Does it have the quick-release breech plug?

[bronko22000]

I had an Optima Pro and I thought it was a very accurate rifle. I sold it because I really am not an 'inline' guy and prefer to hunt/shoot sidelock. But if I were to get an inline, I probably would buy another Optima or Accura.

[quake]

Jw,

Just wanted to add, and of course you already know this, many nice used firearms are bought/sold online everyday by lots of honest folks. Usually you can get a "feel" for the person or shop selling the gun if they give lots of detailed info and pics- this helps out greatly when making your decision. Good luck.

[MountainDevil54]

you can buy the BH209 plug for $25 bucks shipped, sometimes less through Carlos. The Optima is my favorite CVA at the moment.

[JW]

That is why I asked.........

Gents ~ I surely apprecaite the feedback ~ Thank you!
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I am going to go shoulder a Optima, that is a good idea. I did buy another brand inline from a HNI user and am thoroughly satisfied. I bought it mainly to use as a demo in my Hunter Ed classes as I am a 20 yr instructor. However after shooting it - I liked it so much ` dang I need another - Use the 2nd for me and/or so my son in law can hunt with me too.

Dave......JW

[builder459]

JW, if your talking about the SS one with the scope on it and the hard case. that price is hard to beat.Jon loves those rifles and they seem to be darn accurate.