I have a chance to buy a traditions .50 caliber. Its a break action inline with a stainless barrel and synthetic stock for 200 bucks. Is that a good gun? Is it worth 200? Its in good shape as far as scratchs go. Open sights on it.

Chris

I think it's the Bobcat or something like that Traditions makes, .50 cal inline you can get new at wally world for around $90

I have a chance to buy a traditions .50 caliber. Its a break action inline with a stainless barrel and synthetic stock for 200 bucks. Is that a good gun? Is it worth 200? Its in good shape as far as scratchs go. Open sights on it.

Chris


Best look at any BPI (CVA, Traditions, Winchester) very sceptically. I was in that market a week ago and after doing some research found that their barrels are suspect, with proofing well below safe pressures at any load. I chose to go ahead and spend more money on the front end rather than learn the hard way with a blown out barrel and a maimed face.

http://www.chuckhawks.com/unsafe_muzzleloaders.htm

Cheers

Thompson is the one I would go with if I was buying new today.

Ruger makes a very nice smoke pole as well. (I have always liked rugers...)

I would definitely not get this. You're looking at $193 brand new at midsouth(www.midsouthshooterssupply.com) for the pursuit LT stainless/synthetic. Unless you are looking at the pursuit pro, which has a 28" barrel(instead of 26), that runs $260. The pursuit pro is a good gun, but I'd go for a T/C omega brand new for about $250.

Best look at any BPI (CVA, Traditions, Winchester) very sceptically. I was in that market a week ago and after doing some research found that their barrels are suspect, with proofing well below safe pressures at any load. I chose to go ahead and spend more money on the front end rather than learn the hard way with a blown out barrel and a maimed face.

http://www.chuckhawks.com/unsafe_muzzleloaders.htm

Cheers
He's right, thats why Cabela's quit selling them, for two bills you can't go wrong with an H&R, CVA is ok too.

Definately pass. The triggers are horrid and most likely its nickel plated. I was at my local gander mountain and they had closeouts on Knight Bighorn -Synthetic stock, stainless barrel- for 159$. While not the most modern design it has an adjustable trigger, groups well and is of good quality.
You might consider the NEF muzzleloader if your dead set on a break open design. The ramrod is almost worthless, but its design is sound, good quality, and is a familiar gun to most. Priced around 165$ for the blued version
The TC Omega at 300$ is a great buy as well for a gun that is well regarded. I dont have any experience with them but if typical TC quaility is any indication it should be a good buy.
Good luck with your purchase and practice with as much as possible. Its addictive but very enjoyable. Mitch