Bronko…………… I've played in the LONG game for the last 5+ and spent more money than my wife (CFO) likely should have ever have let me spent.
I can tell you that the LONG RANGE shooting of a muzzleloader will bite you and bite you hard. Once you start shooting long range it starts becoming part of you and you want more. Its addicting!
I know where one "thinks" he wants to go is well past being just satisfied and ends at HAPPY.
If...….. you really want to get into the LONG range game, then my suggestion would be to go with a complete custom in the first place and save yourself a TON of money in the long run. I would also suggest that you go with a smokeless capable rifle, rather you ever shoot smokeless or not, they shoot all other propellants at much heavier charges than a production rifle. Believe me also, its not a cheap game either. For example, if you're sending 84grsW of BH now, you'll end up shooting 110grsW later (not for production rifles). It just happens and you will end up doing it. Sure you can shoot less propellant, but if you're getting into it for the LONG RANGE game, then costs WILL go up. Plan on it. In the end, it makes you a better shooter all the way around and 200yd shots are just chip shots down the road. There's no testing of the equipment, ONLY the shooter on the trigger.
My vote and without hesitation would be...….. SAVE YOURSELF A LOT OF MONEY AND TIME, GO CUSTOM USING THE REM 700 ACTION.
Every production muzzleloader still made today, requires "some" type of modification. Rather that be spacers, changing the breech plug to a custom, shimming, or any of the other things you can read about. With a custom, you're done. Go shoot and test yourself, because the rifle WILL test your abilities.
Good grief, the custom builders (Luke) have a fix for that leaking system in the new CVA Paramount.
My choice for my build was Jeff Fisk. I personally know Jeff and have shot beside him.
My suggestion for a build, not in any specific order:
Jeff Fisk..... Bestill Creations LLC
Luke Horok…… Arrowhead Rifles
Levi Reed...… LR Customs.
Hollis Weber
Gary Bush
NOTE: These guys are booked, so if you really want a custom, order it now.
Just one of my range cards...… w/300gr Fury star tip2 bullet