I have a .54 cal Trade rifle, 1 in 48 twist, percussion. It's a real shooter. It likes different load combinations with PRB and also shoots conicals very well.

A high quality (wood and workmanship) good looking gun to boot. It's still OE, haven't changed anything. Will try the buck horn sight soon.

Paul

I have a .45 Lyman Plains Rifle from the 70s. I got it on a trade and LOVE IT. I'm hoping to kill my first deer with it. I found that it shoots the Hornady 200gr XTP like a dream. One of these days I might try one of those peep sights on it but for now I'm happy with the iron sights that came with it.

Wow a old 45cal Lyman Plains rifle is a RARE find.

Is it the Plains Hunter model with the faster 1-32 twist? The faster 1-32 should also shoot the 200gr SST which is a slightly better deer bullet and flies much flatter past 100 yards. The 200gr XTP or even the 180gr XTP also works good if not pushed too fast.

I'm not sure what the twist is.. I looked and looked but couldn't find any markings. I will definitely make note of the SST bullet and try it out.

Yes I couldn't be more happy with the gun. I had a CVA Hawkens and let it go last year. I kicked myself for selling my only muzzleloader. A few months ago I decided it was time for another so I made a trade for the Lyman through the barter section on Craigslist. The guy said he didn't think it had ever been shot.

After taking it to the range and seeing how well it shot, I knew this one is a keeper!

I use a Lyman GPR in a .54 cal. It has served me well. I cast my own 415gr maxi balls.

Actually InvestArms of Italia makes Lymans side locks I believe. I have three of there guns, one from Cabalas, one from Lyman and one with InvestArms company markings on the barrel.

I have taken game with all except the Lyman flinter. I will, though, be taking the flinter to the woods this year.