I've played with a ML for a few years now I shoot a .54 cal CVA inline I paid $175 for. My Dad wants to start hunting with a ML but we can't find a .54 cal inline thats legal for this state that doesn't cost $300. I've looked online but all the manufactures seem to be going to .45 or .50cal for use with sabots. we want a .54 mainly for elk hunting but some deer also. Cabelas, Bass pro shops and others don't do .54cal, where do we go?

Try Wal Mart or any of your "good" local gun shops. They should be able to order a gun for you. .50 cal is the most popular by far, but I also shoot a .54. I would also call Cabelas to see if they just didn't list the .54's, they have a "muzzleloaders catalog", so asl them to send it to you. I know CVA still makes in-lines in that caliber, as well as Thompson Center. Both are serviceable guns in the price range you mentioned