My understanding of the older Optima line is that the major difference between the Optima and Optima Pro is the barrel length. Any optima barrel can be used on the Optima reciever 26" or 29". The Optima Elite is a new configuration in both barrel and reciever and is designed to handle the capabilities of CF rounds in addition to ML and shotgun. As Dave said, call BPI and confirm in person just to be sure.