The cost of hunting and shooting supplies continues to rise, so finding a bargain is important to the dedicated outdoorsman. Muzzleloader hunting provides the opportunity to enjoy shooting while spending less money. This makes muzzleloaders a very cost effective hunting and shooting option.
Modern muzzleloaders have come a long way. Today’s inline muzzleloaders are much easier to use and are much more reliable than those made even just a few years ago. In order to help keep your costs down, we have reviewed the 3 best muzzleloaders for under $300.
1. CVA Optima Muzzleloader– This is an overhauled version of CVA’s original design. Sporting a 26″ fluted stainless steel barrel, weighing just under 7 lbs and having a breech plug which requires no tools for removal, the Optima is a rock solid gun for its price. This break barrels action is smooth and it’s out of the box trigger pull is just about 2.5 lbs. At about $275, this is a great muzzleloader option for the hunter how wants to invest in just one muzzleloader for their arsenal.
2. Traditions Pursuit Ultralight Muzzleloader– Weighing in at just over 5 lbs., the Ultralight has a 26″ chrome fluted barrel with a CeraKote corrosion resistant finish. The trigger breaks at about 3 lbs. of pull and the breech plug comes out with a few twists. With an average price of about $290, this muzzleloader option is a good choice for the hunter who finds himself hunting in the thick woods as this lightweight gun is quick and easy to shoulder.
3. Thompson Center Impact– The TC Impact Muzzleloader is a break action muzzleloader weighing just about 6.5 lbs and sporting a 26″ barrel. The break barrel mechanism, which doubles as a hood for the closed breech along with the hammer not accepting a spur makes it difficult to mount a scope on the Impact. The most expensive of the list coming in at about $300, Thompson Center Impact is an ideal gun for a beginner or youth hunter due to its adjustable stock.
Muzzleloader hunting provides the outdoorsman with several wallet friendly options to keep them shooting. The advances in projectiles and propellants as well as the accuracy and handling characteristics of these guns, combined with affordable prices help to keep avid hunters in the fields longer during the season.
The 3 best muzzleloaders we have highlighted above represent the hottest bargains in shooting available. As a dedicated hunter, you should own at least one.