After 10 years living overseas and missing the annual deer hunts out West (where I'm from), I will transfer to northern VA this summer. I plan to make up for lost time stalking deer. I've never hunted black powder, but am anxious to get started this season. Can anyone give me any advice on black powder hunting in Virginia? Or on getting started in this type of hunting in general?

Checking out the literature, I am leaning toward a simple, inexpensive side-lock, like the Deerstalker or the Deerslayer (Lyman and Traditions), in .54 caliber. I want to keep it as simple, inexpensive and "traditional" as possible, while doing what I can to ensure power and accuracy for a quick kill. I'd like to use modern, open sights (no scopes); side-lock ignition for a more traditional feel, and a shorter, lighter rifle for carrying convenience and cost-savings. I might try a modern in-line in the future, but for now, I would like to see if I can bag a deer with a basic muzzleloader.

Any thoughts to help get me and my two teenage sons started in muzzleloading and Virginia deer hunting would be greatly appreciated.