Just got a super deal on a new Optima Elite .50 ML. Does anybody have any feedback as far as rifle and possible loads for it.The majority of my hunting will be limited to Ohio whitetails.

From all I have read, you have a great rifle. Lots of people shoot them with very good results. Try some powerbelts if you like that design of bullet. I personally do not shoot them because of their price. Also from one members testing, we have learned that you can not push them too hard. Although they do a good job at what they do when treated properly.

Instead I would load 100 grains of Pyrodex RS or Triple Se7en 2f, and a 250 grain Shockwave. May start your shooting with 90 grains and work up to 100 grains. A 100 grain charge and that bullet should be all the White tail medicine you need if you put that in the right place.

Some other good bullets to try are Barnes Expander.s, Nosler Partition, Speer Gold Dots, and Hornady XTP's. Just make sure to get the right sabot for the right bullet. Any questions in that department, I am sure the forum would be happy to help you out.

Great Gun

some loades to try
100 gr 777 - 44cal .430 300gr Hornady XTps with a Harvester crushrib sabot
110gr 777 - 200gr TC Shockwave
100 - 110gr 777 - 250gr & 290gr Barns TMZ

If you do go with the Powerbelts remember to keep your powder charges around 75gr to 90gr of powder

Ron

I bought a optima elite last year. Its a really nice gun. The only two bullets i have shot through it so far is power belts and shock waves both shot really accurate. I was planning on trying some different powder and bullets but have never gotten around to doing it yet. I reckon i keep putting it off, so much to do and so little time to do it.