RE: what size scope?
I have a Nikon Pro Staff in the 2-7X32 and think that has to be one of the best values out there for the money. How many times do we actually need more then 7X with a muzzleloader. On the range yes, but in the woods, a 4X seems about right. When walking I like the 2X.
The scope is small at only 11" in length, light, and with excellent eye relief. $129.00 is a good fair price for the scope. Also they have a life time guarantee. The gunshop I bought mine from told me the reason he sells a lot of them is that they never come back for service or anything...
I also have a Sightron S1,Millet Buck, and a Bushnell Banner Dusk to Dawn on other muzzleloaders and all of them are exceptional scopes and a great value. I've nothing against the Leupolds, and some of the higher end scopes out there. They are excellent and do the jon just great. I actually own a couple ofthem on some of my center fire rifles.I just hate spending more for the scope then the rifle. Also when I look at how the ignition of the open breech rifles I have is burning the paint right off the scope bit by bit, I am kind of glad it is not some $400 scope on there. It would make me sick...
Good luck with your selection.