nutzy, you can get good Traditions rock locks brand new for under $300. I was looking at the PA Pellet gun. You could use Pellet or loose and it had a 1:48 twist. That means you can shoot sabots conicals and round ball. Sonme of the used or older flinters have a different twist which migt not let you use anythoing more than round ball. If hunting PA you can shoot about any bullet. I just started this year and I will see if I can difg up the list of 'need t ohave' caygad sent me. Extensive but need not a want. That is for later. Ican say this , I am almost over my CF guns. I have an inline Pro Hunter and this flinter. I am saving for a Sharps 45/70 now. I had fun w/ CF, but this flint lock will make it more fun and makes you a better hunter. You don't have all the capabilities that a CF has,you hunt better! Good Luck and I will send that list if I can dig it out!