ORIGINAL: Chris W.
I've had the urge for a sidelock for a bit now but, recently, it's been getting a bit stronger. I've looked around at some used T/C hawkens and renegades but any other suggestions that won't break the bank? I'm leaning towards a .54 caliber. I'm wanting something that I can shoot conicals and PRB out of.
The Lyman Great Plains is closer to a real Hawken than the TC stuff, as is the Pedersoli Santa Fe Hawken.
If you get a barreltwist that is proper for heavy loads with PRB, itwill be too slow for conicals much longer than the Maxi Ball. If you wan to shoot HEAVY conicals, take a look at the Lyman Great Plains Hunter which has the proper twist for them.
IF you are really interested in getting to know something about traditional rifles, let me suggest that you check out this site!
http://www.americanlongrifles.com/