Hi all- I am a complete newbie to muzzleloading. I am looking to purchase my first muzzleloader and want some feedback on a good first rifle for taking whitetail deer in Wisconsin. I am not looking to invest a ton, but realize that in order to get something good you have to pay for it. Also, being that I am a first-timer, I want to take ease-of-use in to some account. Thanks for your time and consideration.

Since we in Wisconsin are only limited on the magnification, we are open to any kind of rifle. You might want to look for an inline rifle in .50 caliber. The brands available are countless. If all you want is a few extra days hunting and your shots 100 yards and under, any of the modern rifles would do just fine. I you are willing to spend a little more,I would suggest a Thompson Center Omega, or a Knight Disc. Check with Knightfan.. he has some Knight Disc Elites NIB for sale for an excellent price.

Some scope companies make a 1X scope if you wish to mount a scope. Or there are RED DOTs, butI would not recommend them unless your shots are close... Good luck on you selection.

I agree with Cayugad. You might want to look at the Z5 Omega, they are less money than the regular Omega and I have heard a lot of good things about them.

Thanks for the help guys.

I like the T/C Omega/Encore/Knight Visionmodern fall-break action for up-to three pellet magnum powder loads -- the "steel" frameTraditions Pursuit-Pro and NEF Sidekick SSfor up-to 120 grain loadsand the forever popular Knight Wolverine II 26" withit's 90's styleplunger-action--lastlythe Austin-Halleck Model 320/420 bolt-action. If you can find a new White Rifle Super-91 or Model 97/98, they are great conical shooters.

Want a sidelock? Pick from my favorites that include:....
T/C, Pedersoli and TraditionsHawkens
T/C Renegade Hunter
Lyman Plains Rifle, Deerstalker & Trade Rifles
Austin-Halleck Mountain Rifle.


Keep Your Powder Dry Folks
. . . . . . . Joe [/i]

I'd stick with 50 caliber for popularity and versatility. As far as inlines go, T/C Omegas and encores are great choices. For a sidelock, aT/C orcabela's(made by pedersoli)hawken or Lyman great plains rifle are good.