The WMA probabally states "muzzleloader" not black powder.

The question I have for you is how deep do you want to get into muzzleloading your first year out? If I was questioning whether or not this is going to be something I want to do as both a hobby and a hunting weapon I would start with an affordable inline muzzleloader and if I like it move into the high end rifles. This sport is not for everybody and I have seen more than one person spend to much money on a gun they never or hardly ever will shoot.

A bottom of the line Thomson Center or Knight rifle will give you about the best performance you can get for the dollar but many out there will do the same. My son bought a MDM Quickshooter last fall and it is ending up to be one hell of a shooter. $189.

I think someone new to the sport should learn as much as they can about it before going hog wild. I see by your profile you are a teacher and all I can say about the Savage is it is like taking calculus before alg1. It dosn't work.

Go out shooting with a friend who has one or see if any of the clubs around you have a range you can join and check out what's out there. Most muzzleloaders I know are so proud of how well they shoot they will even let you take a shot or two so the mistry is gone.

I hope this helps. I love this sport and I learn something new every time I go to the range. I can tell you will love it too by your questions. I look forward to you telling us what you bought for a rifle.