Take it easy on the new person. He's only looking for information on what to purchase. It is apparent he has tried to do some research about muzzleloaders and must have found the Wakeman articles. I can not blame him for being a little cautious after reading them. And I see no reason to start the Spanish proof testing argument all over again. We've rehashed that too often as far as I am concerned.
I have to admit, after I first read Randy Wakeman's articals, I was a little concerned owning as many of the Spanish guns, as I do. But my take on it, I use them with common sense, according to manufacturer's recommendations, and so far my rifle have been safe to shoot and like others state.. very accurate. Give Phathead credit also, that he did not run out and purchase a rifle and then ask if it is any good... like some people people have done. Still given the choice, I'd take a Thompson Center, Knight or White over any of the other brands of rifles out there.. talking inlines. And this is personal preference. My CVA Staghorn Magnum is a great shooter. Not real pretty when you talk barrel to stock fit, but it lays them down range with the best of them.
Thompson Triumph with a little extra and save for scope.
CVA and get complete set up.
Knight rolling block same as Thompson.
open to others.
As you can see by the considered choices he has a CVA listed. An Optima, Wolf, Kodiak, are all good guns. There are some good deals on them as well at some sites. Before I would purchase any of the rifles suggested by the forum members, try to get out there and handle one. Look at how the barrel fits to the stock, no matter what brand. This might save you a bed job later down the road. Also search old posts about any brand of rifle that has your interest, and what others have found good and bad. Some of them had stock issues did they not?
I do not see an Omega listed in your choices I am guessing because of the Triumph. Right now there are some sweet deals showing up on them. My only opinion (and that is all it is) would be buy the better Omega and not the Z5. Their stock worries me. Although some of you have found ways around that. Being the clever little people you are.
So I try to anser your question this way... If I had $400.00 I would look at a Knight Rolling Block in .50 caliber, with bases, warne QD rings, and a good scope. If I had to save a little more, then get the rifle and the other stuff later. I think that would be all the rifle a person would ever really need considering the reports coming in from KRB7 owners.
Again, just my opinion. If you like a different brand, then perhaps explain what appeals to you about about it and why you think it would be a good purchase for him.