Couple quick questions: Is the $500 inclusive of a scope? I would first check state regs for muzzleloader requirements. Some have size and scope restrictions. As for the and quality and assuming a good scope and rings or about $150-200, and other $100 for misc pellets, sabots, cleaning supplies, you have $250 for that actualmuzzleloader. I think last month's issue of outdoor life listed several good guns. I have a CVA Optima, there new gun is getting some good reviews. While inexpensive, it has held up well and continues to shoot good. You can by a prettier guna dn one that may last longer. I was looking at a need for a 1 week season annually and did not want to spend a lot of money on a gun I may use 2-3 times per year.

For the money , I would go with a CVA Kodiak (I beleive that is the knock off knight) or Optima, add a Simmons Aetecand be good to go for years to come. I would also go with a 50 cal. The 45 is great, but it is not allowed in some western states for big game. If you ever plan to travel, buy the bigger cal now.Natchez Shooting supply ( do not have their websiteand Bearbasin.com usually have Aetecs for about $120-$150. If you find that you will not need all the supplies, then spend more on the gun. Others may tell you to shoot open sights and buy a scope later. I am a firm beleiver that you can not shoot what you can not see. A scope is ahuge asset. If you are going to pay to hunt out of state, make sure you have a scope that will let you shoot to your guns ability. If you find that you enjoy it, save your pennies and upgrade your gun in a few years. The inovations that muzzle loading has realized over the last few years is incredible.

Some of my friends have had good luck with both Knight and Remingtons too. The TC oncore is always a favorite. I have just found that both knight and TC are more money than I was originally willing to spend.


Good Luck