Which Muzzleloaders?

jon lynn · #1 05-29-2009, 08:40 PM

I am toying with learning to use a muzzleloader. And started reading up about them. I read a few articles by people I have not heard of before, and one by Chuck Hawks (who I am not impressed with).

But they say that the muzzleloaders in the blister packs in walmart are made in Europe (Mainly Spain), and that they are quite dangerious, even when used correctly.

Remember I am ALWAYS BROKE! So price is an issue, and if I do get one it will most likely to have a Bushnell on it..............yeah I know!

But send me your usual good advice.

Thanks, Jon

Swift · #2 05-30-2009, 01:13 AM

First off ya lookin for flinter or percussion?

muskrat30 · #3 05-30-2009, 07:20 AM

Are you looking for something to extend your deer hunting with? If so I'd gravitate to a scoped in-line. I am partial to Knight Disc rifles but there are several good options available. You can check the used listings for better deals. Care given by the previous owner is paramount when buying a used M-L. I've seen more than a few not given proper care after shooting.

jon lynn · #4 05-30-2009, 08:25 AM

Now my total ignorance will show! All I know, is I want one that can take a scope, 50 cal, I think I want an inline. I learned from a friend that they make idiot kits for novices like me, where you use powder plugs, and not have to measure powder. For me simplicity is best.

And, yes it is just to extend my deer hunting season, my dismal season last year really saddened me. Each and every season in Germany I got multiple game animals, but since I’ve been back to Oklahoma, I’ve gotten Bupkus.

So I gotta’ learn the ram rod!

jon lynn · #5 05-30-2009, 08:34 AM

And I more than likely will have to buy used.

gd357 · #6 05-30-2009, 06:32 PM

jon,

If you're on a budget, look at CVA's Optima and Wolf inline muzzleloaders. They can be had for a very low price, new. Also, Rossi makes a budget priced inline break action muzzleloader. Not to discourage your thought train, but I would be VERY leary of used muzzleloaders. You don't know how they've been used/abused. You can get a new CVA Wolf for under $200. Much better option, IMHO.

gd

muskrat30 · #7 05-31-2009, 06:44 AM

I wouldn't fear loose powder. I like it. It's easy to pre measure a few 'speed-loaders' before the hunt & off you go. Loose powder is cheaper per shot, easier to ignite, & according to Hodgdon gives a few more fps than comparable pellet charge.

jon lynn · #8 05-31-2009, 08:54 AM

gd357.....Thanks for the tip about used, but for some reason in Oklahoma some inline break actions are illegal. I am not sure which ones, but I will ask some of the locals here to explain the Oklahoma laws, and the styles of break actions.

jon lynn · #9 05-31-2009, 09:44 AM

Before I get too far off the beaten path, have any of you ever heard of any inherent dangers with the lower priced models?

Ridge Runner · #10 05-31-2009, 11:11 AM

OK, my go to muzzleloader is a 1992 vintage TC Thunderhawk, yeah its ugly, kinda outdated but shoots like a house a fire, have taken several deer beyound 200 yards, farthest was 267. On a good day 3 TC 250 gr shockwaves will blow one large ragged hole in a 100 yard target. was affraid I couldn't get parts for it if the need should arise so last year I bought a like new/used one for 225.00.
a couple pics
the first day I hunted with it, one buck fell at 30 yards, the other at 110

the next year, I missed this buck running on thur morn, took him fri morn

This buck was shot the last day of season a couple years ago at 208 yards, DRT

anyway look around you can buy these guns for cheap, and their replacement model the diamond back is cheap as well. the thunderhawks come standard with a timney trigger.
RR

wrenchman · #11 05-31-2009, 08:21 PM

jon i have never heard of any prolims my brother in law bought one the only complaint he had was the triger sucked.
I would have to go with g.d about the wolf and rossi makes a combo gun with 2 or 3 barrels the 2 barrel kit goes for about 180 here i seen one here for sell at dunhams with a 243 and a 50 normaly they are shotgun muzzle loader combos unless you bought a 3 barrle combo.
I have a rossi by the way with a 243 a 12gauge and a 50cal.
Many states have regs saying no optics or no inlines youseing 209 primers.
I would check your regs good becuse for years we couldnt even use pyrodex each state is diferent.

buckhunter · #12 06-01-2009, 11:24 AM

I bought a CVA Kodia Pro. I only shoot loose powder and so far it hasn't exploded. Naw really I paid about $200 for it and it shoots fine.

Duffy · #13 06-02-2009, 08:28 AM

A good starter is the CVA Buckhorn, it comes in a kit with all the trimmings, and can be purchased at Dick's (at least around here) for around $150.00. It is a very capable 209 inline, and is scope-ready. It was my first muzzleloader. If you're just starting out, it would be one to consider.

Okie Hog · #14 06-06-2009, 08:52 AM

Quote:

" good starter is the CVA Buckhorn, it comes in a kit with all the trimmings, and can be purchased at Dick's (at least around here) for around $150.00. It is a very capable 209 inline, and is scope-ready. It was my first muzzleloader. If you're just starting out, it would be one to consider."

+1
The CVA Buckorn and the Elkhorn are both really good guns. I have scoped about 15 of them for hunters and they shoot really good. An used option is any of the CVA inlines made since 2000. I live in Lawton, OK and they are being sold used in pawnshops for $75-150. Some of them are scoped. Inspect any used muzzleloader carefully, especially the bore. A lot of guys do not clean their guns and the bore gets rusty.
If the bore is not shiny do not buy the gun.

The TC Black Diamond is another gun to look for. That gun is very accurate.

jmarriott · #15 06-06-2009, 12:42 PM

If you closely examine a muzzleloader used is not a bad option. Somewhat risky if you are new to loaders. Maybe someone you know that is using one can go with ya.

You then have the ability to buy a used one for less than the price they have on the rack. It is a used loader and most shops don't give much trade in cash for them. Get one and use it if you like it then save up for a new one that you might spend the rest of your life with. You should be able to locate a good used one for 100 or so.

I stick with X-bows in the late season when muzzleloader are the favorites. I got a good deal on the X-bow because the guy's a cronic upgrader. I move closer to the houses late in season as the deer seem to move closer to them and most hunters overlook the little spot that 3 farm houses connect at.