Looking to purchase my first muzzeloader. Have much experience hunting, just not with a muzzeloader. I am looking for suggestions, in-line probably, not limited to price. My first thought is the Savage .50 caliber, primarily because one can use smokeless or black powder. Any thoughts? Does Savage have a good reputation overall in the blackpowder rifles? Any negatives regarding smokeless powder use in an in-line?

Thanks in advance.

The new savage has a much better trigger than some of last years im told.There is draw backs to shooting the smokeless stuff,the barrel becomes very hot and multiple shots will soften up the sabot to where there is no accuracy.
Also they need new vent liners of some sort every 50 shots or so with smokeless.
On the bright side though they have the most awesome knock down power of any muzzle loader with the smokeless.You need to check your state hunting laws to see if smokeless is allowed.
Go to the Savage Arms web page and do some reading on them.
If you wanted to be able to shoot the smokeless or black powder or the subs this would be the only gun i know of that will do it.
There is a web site dedacated to the savage on the web someware that is nothing but savage muzzle loader talk.Seek and you shall find. :D