optima no pro ?
 

Hello Just got the new optima 50 cal last night. Its not the optima pro.Did I make a mistake in not getting the Pro version, with the longer barrel?? Ran short on cash for bullets and powder. Im on here to here about the diffrence in powerbelts and sabots. I think I know that from reading you guys posts I will be getting triple 7 pellets for my powder.I dont want to fool with loose powder, dont shoot that much. Any optima owners have a sugestion on bullets weights and brands, for the 26 inch version of this rifle? ???? I only hunt deer. I got the nickle plated synthetic stock, felt soooo good on my shoulder in the store. Not to expensive either, cant wait to shoot her!! My first muzzle. Thanks

RE: optima no pro ?
 

Stick shooter, my opion is to shoot Triple 7 loose powder. You'll get a better burn than pellets. I shoot fffg Triple 7. Most smokepole hunters shoot 2fg. It's a preference thing. For the projectile, I would recommend Powerbelt 295's. Iv'e shot a lot of these bullets with my CVA, and have killed every deer!! MY load combo is 80 grains Triple 7 with a 295 grain Powerbelt aero tip copper plated bullet. Good Luck....

Keep on smokin'!!

RE: optima no pro ?
 

I have the exact gun you do - sweet huh?! My preferred load is a 250g hornandy sst with a .452 Harvester sabot (cabelas), 90g 777 or 2-50g pyrodex pellets. The harvester sabots load easier than the ones that come with the sst, and the bullet sits in the harvesters without the "bulge" that occurs with the standard sabots. With this load I can get 2.5" groups at 100 yds if I do my part.

RE: optima no pro ?
 

I got the Pro. A bit longer with the fancy barrel adn stock. Theoretically, that length makes it more accurate, but it also makes it heavier. I love my gun, but I wouldn't kick yourself about not getting the Pro. Great gun. Easy to clean and a bargain to boot.