$1200 conversion? That would buy a nice CF handgun.

or a cva optima black powder pistol

With money left over for a Knight ultra light. ;)

Yes, that would be a better choice than the ROA. A revolver just doesn't have the powder capacity.

I had a look at the link. I am not much of a pistoleer, but that is really a nice gun. I could take an interest in something like that. Unfortunately the cost is way up there. But when I win the lottery I will definitely order one to carry in my new diesel pickup.

I think I may have been misunderstood.

I wasn't intending on the 30 grn Pyro P behind a RB as a hunting load. It was just to get a bit acquainted with it. My intentions is to use 3F 777 behind a conical using as much powder as I can put behind it and still maintain a 6" group. It may mean I'll be stuck with a 25 yds max, but I'm hoping to be able to stretch out to 50 yds.

From what I've read is that with a near max load of 3F 777 with a 240 grn bullet I should be able to achieve over 500 ft/lbs of energy at the muzzle...plenty enough, especially for the little deer around here. A RB is probably plenty for them, and from what I've read, many use them and get passthroughs, which doesn't seem right to me.

I certainly would be humane and not use something barely capable or that could barely be accurate out to distance. I may find it's not useable for anything but a sidearm during BP season. But from what I've read there are many who hunt with an 1858 and Old Army, and I'm curious.

"Would you load just 30gr of powder in a rifle for hunting?"

Using 3F 777 behind a 240 grn bullet should exceed 45 Colt performance, and that, I would say, ought to be plenty for something the size of a deer. 30 grns using a RB? Not me. I don't see how it's enough. Maybe it is with the little deer here, but I'd be more comfortable with much more powder or a conical.

I would most definitely want that .50 cal conversion, but at that price it's too rich for me.
Maybe if money becomes no object one of these days.... As it is I'm having to split up my "allowance" on beer brewing supplies as well as shooting supplies and needs. And I'd kinda like to get into casting, but with all of the stuff needed it will be some time before I venture that way.

If I was going to restrict myself to 25yds. I'd use a longbow. I know that would work, and be more of a challenge.

I played with my old boss' recurve. Lots of fun! Sure would wear me down when we'd have little competitions in the back of the shop! 65 lbs was a bit to pull and hold for a moment. But it got me a little better at pulling and releasing...a little better at least. Made my Indian heritage try to come through! He's a big guy, and I'm not. The draw length was a bit much.