I am looking to get a muzzlelaoder and I don't want to spend more than $250. What would you recommend? I would like to get an inline and I have been looking at the black diamonds and the CVA's

Thanks,

brent

Well, i'm a traditionalist where black powder is concerned, so don't know anything about in-lines. But, i'm sorta dismayed that no one has offered any sort of answer, too. Maybe you can find some people in your area that shoot the rifles you're looking at (range, gun store, etc) and talk to them and find out which they prefer and why. I've got some experience with CVA's traditional guns and like them. In fact, took a deer in ND at 38 below with a mountain rifle, so ignition doesn't appear to be a factor. I know there are people that liked the black diamonds also. Consider which ones fit you best, and which one do you like the best? And keep in mind that all black powder weapons require a different type of care than smokeless weapons and that's something you need to be aware of. I know that doesn't directly answer your question, but hopefully it will help you make your decision. Keep your powder dry........

BD, why don't you get an NEF? They don't cost much, they are accurate, and you can send it back to the factory to have one or more of a slew of centerfire barrels fitted to it for not a lot of money per barrel. And it's made in the USA.

I too am a traditionalist who hunts with a Kentucky flintlock rifle. I throw my leather "possibles" bag over my shoulder and head out into the woods. Never have I had so much fun in hunting.

It's just my opinion that many persons who wish to take advantage of the muzzleloading hunting seasons select an "inline" rifle because it's appearance is more closely akin to the modern rifles that they are accustomed to.

I recently unpacked and set up a CVA inline rifle for a friend and I am of the opinion that this type of rifle is more complex and has a steeper learning curve than traditional rifles. For example, I don't like the need to remove the breech plug so often which is necessary to clean an inline rifle.Then this gets into the additional requirement to place a special high tech greese on the breech plug threads (not included with the rifle). At least they do provide the special tool to remove the breech plug. Another special tool is required to place the 209 shotshell primer in the breech - you simply cannot do it with your fingers. If you go on a hunting trip you had better not forget these tools.

On another note, inline rifle barrels have a rather fast twist that tends to hold powder fouling. Sabots don't load well in a fouled bore. Conicals may load easier and would be my choice, but you cannot shoot patched round balls.

Inline rifles are restricted in many states so you need to check the laws before you buy. Why not take a look at some of the traditional rifle kits, many are available for under $300.