Thank you for the reply Dogfish. The hunting pressure in WA is unbelievable compared to MT (well, not so much anymore) but I hear your message. Get away from the crowds. I've contemplated making the jump to muzzle loader, but lacking the knowledge, I'm hesitant. I helped by Dad build a .50 caliber ML before I went into the service and he's killed a few river bottom whitetail with it (freezer fillers) but for the most part, the areas back home are wide open 150-200+ rifle shots.
I've talked with my hunting buddy at length about the perfect "rifle season" firearm and I believe a 30-30 open sight is the choice for the close quarter skid road, game trail, heavy timber shots encountered out here. I'll admit though, I've yet to purchase it. I hear story upon story of the 150-200 yd buck that was killed lying in a clearcut on a blustery, rainy day. The reason I carry the scoped x06 I do, too much firepower for the deer I've encountered though. 16 for 16, you obviously are doing something right....good luck this season, if you haven't filled your tag yet.