Which Flintlock?

[Hobbs4421]

I’ve hunted Pa most of my life using bows and guns, but never tried hunting with muzzle loaders. I’d like to do my research in the off season and be ready to hunt Pa next late season(after Christmas). I really don’t know where to get started. I would say that my budget would be $500 for the rifle. Any input would be appreciated
Thanks, Isaac

[Ronin]

You can't go wrong with a Hawken style .50 cal muzzleloader. They're available online, or if you want to take a trip to Dixon's Muzzleloading Shop in Kempton, they may have one or two in stock (or something completely different), along with all the supplies you'd need to get it up and running.

[Hobbs4421]

Thanks Ronin. Maybe I’ll take a ride.

[Steve in PA]

Several years ago I wanted to continue my hunting so I decided on something for flintlock season. I didn*t want to spend a lot of money because I didn*t know if I would like flintlock. So, I bought one of the Tradition Kits.

I had zero experience with flintlock, but learned quickly. *Some people* claim Traditions is nothing but junk. Well, I have no issues or complaints. As long as I did my part correctly, I got a flash and a bang. I have not taken anything with a flintlock yet, but one of these days I*ll get lucky!

No denying the Hawken and similar flintlock rifles are the top tier. I may get on3 someday, but my Traditions serves me well.

[Steve in PA]

Several years ago I wanted to continue my hunting so I decided on something for flintlock season. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money because I didn’t know if I would like flintlock. So, I bought one of the Tradition Kits.

I had zero experience with flintlock, but learned quickly. “Some people” claim Traditions is nothing but junk. Well, I have no issues or complaints. As long as I did my part correctly, I got a flash and a bang. I have not taken anything with a flintlock yet, but one of these days I’ll get lucky!

No denying the Hawken and similar flintlock rifles are the top tier. I may get on3 someday, but my Traditions serves me well.

[Karys]

+1 for a Traditions, especially if you*re on a budget.

My first flintlock was a Traditions and although I don*t own it anymore, it did everything I needed it to do.

[Chazman321]

Don't forget, you can hunt early muzzleloader too, you don't have to wait until after Christmas!


-Chaz

[41 Redhawk]

Being left handed my choices are more limited. I have had both a Traditions and a CVA. Both have been fine!

[akley88]

i went the non-traditional flintlock method and got a PA pellet Ultralight.

[41 Redhawk]

User wstrayer has a T/C Renegade for sale in the classified. More than you indicated you wanted to spend but the T/Cs were considered the best of the "out of box" flintlocks.