I am seriously pissed off at Cabelas[:@] Last week I noticed that they had a black powder sale and decided to pick up the CVA Optima kit (rifle, scope & starter kit) for $284.00 with shipping included. The girl I spoke to on the phonestated that it was on backorder and would take approx 2 months to ship which I had noproblem with. On todays date, my buddy called Cabelas and attempted to get the same deal and they advised him that the kit I ordered was discontinued and he nor I would be getting it[:@]. I then spoke to another representative there and he advised me that the kit was no longer available due to the fact that they were no longer going to carry thenickel/blk CVA Optima, however they were still in production. I then settled for the same kit with a blue finish[>:]. He advised me to call back tommorrow and speak to a customer service rep which is what I am going to do. My question to you guys is the following, is the Nickel finish that much better than the blue? Inow the obvious is that the blue will wear/rust easier but what do you guys think? thanks for your help.

Canx your order ASAP, and save up a little extra cash and buy something/anything in Stainless Steel

Then only use Shockey's Gold or Pinnacle powder and you'll be all set

Seriously, SS is the way to go. I've done both, and SS wins hands down! If you must have an Optima, IMO, get the Optima Elite in SS. It has a stronger action and barrel than previous models, and you can add CF barrels to it later

I got my Black flecked nickel Optima from Buds guns shop for about 270 something shipped but I don't know if they have them anymore I think they are off the site.
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/index.php

Garminator,

Similar thing happened to me trying to order a SS Apex. Only in my case, I ordered online and received a confirmation of the order stating the item in stock. Two days later, on the phone, I helped my Dad place an order when I was told a few were left. I never thought to ask if mine had been shipped but they were aware of my order then and used it to get the item number. My Dad got his, I did not, go figure.

If you don't have to have a break action, you might consider the SSKodiak Pro there for $259. You can easily get $20 off if you have a coupon, if you don't, just ask them, they'll give it to you. Stainless steel is awesome, if you can, get something in stainless. Good luck and sorry to here of the trouble.

Garminator

I have not checked prices at Bud's lately but check there before you buy anywhere.... think you have the web address a couple of messages up...

Mike,

Do you know if Bud's would let someone return a rifle they didn't like? Though Cabelas may generally be higher priced, I couldn't find anyone who could beat the clearance prices onthe SS Apex or SS Kodiak Pro. Plus they give extra off.When it arrives,if you aren't satisfied, call them, they send UPS by to pick it up at their expense.Outdoorslover returned his have shooting it 60 times. They really are great to deal with.

Thanks for the reponses guys....I'll definately be looking at several different options..

Pglasgow

They will, but the Wal-mart return policy that most big local dealers have are unbeatable if you have one if the big box stores near you.

HOPEFULLY! if you are a purchaseing a proven performer you will not need to return it, but if you need to it is certainly easier and nocer of it happens to be a local place.

Cool, then I take it you have returned a rifle to Buds? Did they send UPS by at their own expense?

Pglasgow

I have not returned a rifle to Bud's and yes you will pay for the trip back.

Their return policy for defective items:

RETURNS

Returns are accepted for defective merchandise only. DO NOT TAKE POSSESSION OF YOUR GUN IF THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH YOUR ORDER. Please inspect your gun thoroughly before proceeding with the transfer. Once a gun is transfered to you it is considered USED, even if you have not fired it. Consequently, we cannot take to gun back and provide a full refund.


So with that policy it would be important to ask them what is considered to be "defective merchandise"

The other thing to remember and to separate out with them - this return policy is set up for centerfire rifles which come under a whole differnt system than muzzleloaders.

I would think you as a wiser consumer would find out about return policies before your purchase from any internet provider. In addition, using your credit card gives you certain return provisions as established by the credit card company with retailers, provided it does not cross Federal, State, or Local laws.

There is always the "cept fors"

Not even Cabelas can take back a centerfire, powder,or even loaded live ammunition -> legally...