Well first off if I had a choice of shotgun or muzzleloader for my deer hunting I would definately go with the muzzleloader because it is that first shot that counts.

Now as to what to buy for a muzzleloading rifle that is totally up to the shooter. I for one find the overall quality of American guns to be better but the BPI rifles are good arms for the money and should not be trash talked. I don't like the feel of most of them because I am a large person and they seem made for an average shooter.

BPI the makers of Traditions and CVA make some really nice traditional sidelock arms if you are interested in them but I would spend the few extra bucks on a bit higher quality if you are going to own one hunting rifle.

I like all my muzzleloaders and it is hard to say which is best but I will say it is one of my T/C rifles.