I have an option to purchase a pre2004 model Remington 700 mls in great shape. I'm a little concerned because it uses 11 caps and the conversion seems to have some mixed ratings. I'm in the market for a new muzzle loader because I started hunting large fields this year and need something I can reach 200 yds+. Is this gun a viable option or should I continue my search? Any info would be great. Thanks!!!

I have on if .54 and it's a good gun. I converted it to 209 primers a long time ago with the old conversion kit and have had no problems. A buddy has one in .50 and 2 years ago I helped him convert it to 209 primers with one of the new kits. He's had issues with his. Seems to me the older conversion kits were a lot better than the ones they offer now.

For what it is worth I had no issues with it when I used 11 caps. So if the price is right I'd consider buying it.

Flags, the new 209 bolt nose kit from Hunter is the best out. There are tons of them being used in Rem700ML smokeless conversions. Thats right, i said smokeless with the addition of a Brux, Pacnor or McGowen barrel. They are all available at smokelessmz.com

Its not just a simple swap out of parts like the older 209 conversions. The new one is almost blowby free and uses a replaceable vent liner for the flash hole.

The bolt looks like this when done and functions more like a centerfire when finished.






This is a smokeless version of the kit using a Savage breach plug

I have two of them a 50 and a 54cal. both the stainless versions. I have owned the 54 for 20 years and the 50 for 14 years.



I used the Calbela's 209 conversion kit in the 54 it is supposed to be Canadian made and works.

I still use the #11 caps on the 50.

Both are very accrete with about any thing you can stuff down the barrel.
I use 80 gr. T7 with a MMP green sabot and a 300gr Speer gold dot in the 50 cal.
In the 54 I use 100gr of T 7 a MMP purple sabot with a 50cal 300gr Speer HP gold dot bullet.

You must keep the bolt clean, most ignition failures comes from not cleaning the bolt, To do a proper cleaning you have to take the bolt down.
I bought the Remington bolt take down tool from Gander Mountian.




I always use this Remington dri lube in the bolt so it doesn't freeze in the cold.



Yet I was still having issues when the temps dropped below -10 getting a first strike ignition with both systems.
Lots of differing information on weight of bolt springs. I just switched both rifles to 29 pound Wolfe springs, no problems since even at -30 below.

Is a simple job to do.



Here is where I wrote about the spring switch.

http://www.huntingnet.com/forum/blac...ng-change.html



Al

I think the 209 kit sold by Cableas was the same one sold by Precision Rifle of Canada. Im not totally sure but they did market several products from PR but with different branding.

The problem with all the other older conversions is its still not a true closed breach system and the others are not reliable with Blackhorn209 powder. The Hunter bolt nose conversion which is also marketed by Badger Ridge is Blackhorn209 compatible. There is virtually no blowby into the breach.