I'm currently looking at buy a CVA Optima Pro, was wonder what kinda of luck people have had with them, or if there is something better. Also what kinda of scopes people like for their muzzle loaders. Right now I am looking at a leaupold shotgun scope for it.

Couldn't help you with the CVA. I shoot a Traditions Yukon and ithas been very good to me. I was given a Burris scope for it. I have one on my Rifle and have been very happy with it. With that said I would suggest you post this question on the Black Powder Thread. There are many knowledgable people on there and will give you all the help you need.

I have the T/C Omega. It is truly my favorite gun I own and I have many!
I would strongly suggest looking at these before you commit to buy anything. The new Z5 is very affordable and accurate right out of the box. Right now I have my Omega topped w/ a 4x Nikon Prostaff, but will be putting on a 3x9x40 Prostaff for this upcoming season.

I had a CVA Optima Pro and I did not like it. I could never seem to get it to line up right and there were just nagging problems with it. It could be thatI just had a lemon. I now have a TC Encore and could not be happier.

I would suggest the T/C omega. two of my hunting buddies and my brother have these. Very accurate, and one of my friends has the new nikon muzzleloading scope on his. I was really impressed with this combo.

Yea my freind has a TC and loves it, I just don't wanna spend that much on a gun.

I have the Optima pro and have shot it for 3 years. I don't really understand how you can haveproblems with a gun that has such a simple design, there really isn't much that can go wrong with it. If your looking for a straight muzzleloader it's a great gun for the money. Mine shoots just as good as my buddies Encore at 1/3 of the price. I have a Nikon Pro series on mine.

I have a standard Optima with 26" barrel. It shoots well and easy to clean.

http://www.outdoorguides.com/outdoor...0Powder%20Guns

Apex or X-150 are great rifles. I own a .50cal X-150 for 4 years now. Zero trouble and excellent accuracy.

So my next question is what caliber .45 or .50 obviously .50 has greater knockdown power and .45 has better balistics but does it matter that much at 150 yrds or less?