Well I have got the bug and haven't evenshot a gun yet. However I took semisane's and frontier gander's advice and purchased a 54-cal lyman great plains rifle with a 1-60 twist. Semisane I purchased the rifle from Midsouth shooting supply, the price plus shipping was about 30.00 less than I had found else where. Thanks for all your help on the gun and cal, and expect me back for more advice for additional supplies. I can be a pain in the you know what when it comes to questions.Believe me when I say that I am a newby at this game. DCH