I shoot Thompson Center, Lyman, and Traditions, flintlock rifles. Of all the rifles, I like the Lyman the best for hunting and the Tradtions is becoming a fast favorite on the shooting range.

Any of those brands are going to work for you just fine. I would personally get a .54 caliber. If you are able to tote a heavy rifle, then the Great Plains is the rifle I would get. In .54 caliber. Get a 1-60 twist. And after your hooked, get a barrel in 1-32 for about $ 140.00 then you have the best of both worlds.

The rifle for the best finish will be the Thompson Center. The worst finish will be the Lyman as they come oiled and expect you to oil them to the shine level you like. I like my Lyman just fine the way it came. All of them will work fine.