Just dropped in. Chuck - I'm always thinking about the ideal load, and more power more power... but I've found that a plain, modest load is lethal. Sounds good ..save money and shouilder at the same time.

I've got a CVA buckhorn - same as yours? - and like it. Before loading to shoot, I run a couple dry patches through.thanks for the tip ..will do.Also is it really necessary to shoot a primer through it before hunting??I use 90gr pyrodex and a 240 XTP sabot; accurate and deadly on deer (three down and one got away, due to bad shot on my part). Very good man. This will be my 2nd hunt.with B.P.I did sit in a Missouri stand last year. I live in Florida. I took an 8 point with my 30-30. 295gr powerbelts grouped well in my old Staghorn, but they're expensive and balked at paying, hence my switch ...ok right now money is not a big problem so I stocked up on them and the pellets.I will change to 100 grain powder though after the weekend. Mine grouped very well too.(and always looking for somthing else). The Powerbelts offer no substantial benefit over sabots, except being easier to load -and the sabot I use load just fine. In fact... for bullet weight, Powerbelts don't perform as well as XTP bullets, IMHO. But if you've already got them, they'll do.
I appreciate you taking the time to reply.
c7
See below - 240gr XTP recovered after going through shoulder & backbone at about fifty years, and unfired version.

Good hunting!