Rather than take your chances with a used rifle I would suggest looking at kits and see if there is something you can afford. You won't find one for $150.00, but for maybe $80.00 more you will have a personalized rifle you will cherish for the rest of your life. That would be the price range for a Traditions percussion side lock.
http://possibleshop.com/rifle-kit.html

Take a look at Williams Gun Sight Company they list several side-locks at very reasonable prices. I have purchased three side-locks from them for under $200.00 each and they were all in great shape. Right now they have a CVA Hawkens listed for one-fifty which should be a good buy. Their sales people are honest and will tell you if there are any problem with a gun they are listing. Several of my friends have purchased guns from them and none have been disappointed.

P.S. Look at the Mendi they list, I got one a while back and it is a real good shooter.

I am with you Cayugad, to many people think they can get new or above new prices for a used rifle...... If I cant save 30%, I will buy new.....Just my policy!!!

Anybody looking to buy a Lyman. This guy is selling below his cost to move them out. $5.00 shipping too. This is where I bought my Left hand flint GPR for $389. That's cheaper than kit price for a factory gun.


http://store.thirdgenerationshooting...fm/2,4705.html

I agree, finding a good sidelock in good-excellent condition might be hard for $150, although deals can always be found. You shouldn't have much trouble if you can spend $250 - $275, I've seen quite a few traditional rifles (mostly Hawkens) on different classifieds for around this price. Sometimes better deals can be found at local gun stores, pawn shops etc., than on the internet.

here is a couple located in Indiana for a resonable price.... I am sure you could get somebody to ship....

http://www.armslist.com/posts/142655...-hawken-50-cal

http://www.armslist.com/posts/183224...-hawken-50-cal

heres some in Wisconsin.....

http://www.armslist.com/posts/180398...percussion-cap

http://www.armslist.com/posts/180973...der-and-access

i like the thompson center renagade I got 2...there nice guns used in the pall park of 200 dollars they got the double set triggers and there like a poorman's hawkens rifle less fancy, I like the size and weight not too big not too small

Thanks for all the help and direction.

You might want to check out and even join The (traditional) Muzzleloading Forum. I noticed a few nice rifles for some good prices over there. There is one CVA Hawken with all the accessories for $250. And there was also A TC with accessories for the same price. There are a pretty good group of guys on that forum also, that will answer any questions you might have. And look at those rifles with the accessories. Heck you can spend as much(or more) on the accessories as you spend on the rifle itself.

I just looked at the classifieds over there. And there are a bunch of nice rifles over there for sale. Tom.