I did not bring up the bad barrels from CVA or any other company. I said that I did not disagree with that statement.

In fact, I think (my .02) that it appears (as only I have handled and closely inspected) that CVA, Traditions, Etc have improved their quality substantially. However, at this time I have not noticed enough of an overall improvement that I would care to invest in nor is there a product that I am interested in other than an ML from Traditions.

Also in fact, I was really dissapointed to see CVA drop the traditional sidelocks from their product lineup. What a shame.

There is merit in this discussion as it's important for folks to know more about the products from all companies and for folks to share their experiences. I have come very close to purchasing a Traditions Pursuit Pro XLT. The only stumbling block for me so far is the trigger pull on the ones that I have handled measured out at 7+ pounds. Too heavy for me. Traditionsanswer is they will lower the trigger pull to 4 pounds for not only a fee but I pay for the shipping. I think the ML should have a 3-4 pound triggerto begin with, so I have an issue of having to pay extra for a feature that I feel should be equipped with anyway.

Some folks could care less about a trigger, I however do care. I would not purchase an ML from any company with a heavy trigger.
So for Traditions, I see this as a gap in customer service and quality as the ML should not pass musterwith a heavy trigger or should nothave the customer bear the cost of their lack of quality assurance.

As far as beingthe #1 ML company, that's true CVA is #1 in sales and have been for some time. The reason for this is (in my view) is more the price point than the superior quality and overall reputationas compared to other companies.It was CVA's agreement with Walmart that propelled the company to #1 in sales. A very inexpensive entry level ML. Nothing wrong with that. Not everyone has several hundred dollars to invest in an ML, so the entry level ML serves an important need.

The difference I have noticed between Winchester and CVA models is with overall finish, hardware and furniture (sights and so on) which is important in my view, as if you look at the lowest priced ML's, they typically have the cheapest fitment, finish and hardware. Still ok if that's what someone wants. Not for me so say what one person will want versus what I would want for myself.

The more ML makers that are making decent product the better in my view. I only wish there were more companies offeringproduction traditional ML's.

As far as left turns, I am not a NASCAR fan so while I do make a left hand turn on occassion, I do not do it by design.

Tahquamenon