While I do not own an Savage ML-10II they are a very interesting rifle. I think I would really enjoy owning one, if only to take it to my range and plink all day. Some of the range reports from people on this forum leave little doubt as to the ability of the rifle to put lead down range in a very deadly accurate manner.

The smokeless issue is one part of the rifle that bothers me. Not that I object to hunting with smokeless powder, as I do not. I personally could care less what kind of muzzleloader someone hunts with. But just recently, Florida I believe it was, enacted legislation that made it illegal to use smokeless powder where before it was. These kind of trends are alarming and not just in the smokeless part of the sport. Idaho last year enacted some major changes that greatly impacted their muzzleloading hunters. Minnesota was going to or did, I can not remember. Actually I think Minnesota was about to and then because of the upheaval they decided not to, but I could be wrong there.

All I am getting at is, when other groups of muzzleloading peopleor non hunting people with a different agenda then many of us, start to pressure lawmakers who have little or know knowledge of muzzleloading technologies and day to day use of them. We can and will see some major legislation in states that will restrict what can be shot, or used in the muzzleloading sport. Some models of rifle made to shoot certain projectiles or powders will be effected. Keep this in mind. I personally feel the first area they will attack is smokeless powders. after that it will be sabots and non lead projectiles. Scopes are a give and take from state to state already.

Welcome to the sport. Check your local laws.Handle as many rifles as you can. And then decide what you feel best meets your muzzleloading needs. Also do not shy away from the traditional aspect of the sport. While they are a different way to hunt, they add a lot of excitement to the already rewarding world of muzzleloading.