Hey DeKuma,

I've hunted ML for 25 years, so I'll throw out my opinion foor what it's worth. I hunt ML exclusively for elk and almost exclusively for deer. I absolutely love it.

My boys and I have Thompson Center Firehawks. I love them. Very accurate, totally dependable, simple to operate and easy to clean. But I don't think you'll go wrong with any of the major brands.

MY PREFERENCES:
* Musket caps. Way hotter and way more flame = more consistent Ka-Boom.
* Pyrodex Select works great for us. (I'm going to try 777 next).
* Definitely prefer an in-line for hunting in or weather.
* We all shoot .54 cal.... But 5 years ago, I began shooting a saboted bullet. I've shot 4 elk with these and like how they perform. As always, placement reigns supreme.
* If I were going to buy a new ML now, I'd look at that TC Black Diamond XR with the 28" barrel. I want one!!!
* You can't get too much practice with a ML.

P.S. I've taken to shooting a saboted round called a Harverter bullet. 45 caliber, 400 grain, flat nosed, hard cast lead. Puts the hurt on elk huge time. The wound channel is incredible if anyone is looking for a good elk round to try out. I found these bullets in Muzzleloader Magazine and order them from www.claybusterwads.com.

Happy hunting!