cayugad:
Thanks for the great advice and encouragement. I'll look into the Trade Rifle. Who makes it? Does it have decent open sights? To ensure accuracy, I was thinking that a more modern bead sight might be better than the old blade stlye front sight--any thoughts? Do you notice a significant difference in accuracy between the round ball and the conical? What is the rifling twist on such a rifle? I understand the the round ball shoots more accurately with a looser twist, while the conicals like a tighter twist. Have you ever killed a deer with a ball? I am intrigued by the ball for its traditional qualities, not to mention its cheaper price. My only concern is with accuracy and power (since balls are generally lighter weight than conicals); while keeping as traditional as possible, at the same time I want to ensure a clean quick kill--especially since this will be my first black powder hunt.

I have seen the Panther advertised and will certainly take a look at it for my boys. Seems like a person can't go wrong with a $60.00 deer killer.

Thanks.