I bought a muzzle loader last year. and i will tell you it's the last one i'll buy! the encore 209 x 50 is the easiest to clean, scope friendly,accurate smokepole you can buy. i wont even consider any other muzzle loader again. i want a 45 cal barrel now. and i see where they make a 450 marlin now. you pay for them thats for sure. once you get over that i think you'll be happy. but i'm telling you the first time you clean the muzzle loader you will be hooked.everything goes out the barrel.