Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Muzzleloader Hunting => Topic started by: T-Dozzer on February 25, 2017, 07:34:53 PM

Title: Used- what to look for?
Post by: T-Dozzer on February 25, 2017, 07:34:53 PM: Considering switching to ML. Been using a rifle or bow for 26 years, but looking for something different for a while.
If I decided to buy a used one, what types of things should I be paying attention to?
Im assuming bore condition is a given.
So far, Im leaning toward a knight Bighorn western.
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: lazydrifter on February 25, 2017, 08:23:26 PM: The MK,Lk, Wolverine, and Littlehorn are all basically the same as the Bighorn. The MK has a squared off receiver. And they have a shorter barrel than the Bighorn. Bore is a big issue and make sure you get Western ignition. Make sure it has sights or is drilled for sights. 50 cal is pretty much the standard anymore. More accessories and bullet choices are available for the 50 than any other cal. Watch Gunbroker. Lot's of good deals at times.
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: T-Dozzer on February 25, 2017, 08:40:25 PM: Quote from: lazydrifter on February 25, 2017, 08:23:26 PM
The MK,Lk, Wolverine, and Littlehorn are all basically the same as the Bighorn. The MK has a squared off receiver. And they have a shorter barrel than the Bighorn. Bore is a big issue and make sure you get Western ignition. Make sure it has sights or is drilled for sights. 50 cal is pretty much the standard anymore. More accessories and bullet choices are available for the 50 than any other cal. Watch Gunbroker. Lot's of good deals at times.

I'm always hesitant of gunbroker. Especially with inspecting the bore.
Are muzzle loaders harder on barrels?
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: lazydrifter on February 25, 2017, 09:25:58 PM: Yes, if they're not cleaned right.
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: Jburke on February 26, 2017, 09:53:07 AM: Quote from: T-Dozzer on February 25, 2017, 08:40:25 PM
Quote from: lazydrifter on February 25, 2017, 08:23:26 PM
The MK,Lk, Wolverine, and Littlehorn are all basically the same as the Bighorn. The MK has a squared off receiver. And they have a shorter barrel than the Bighorn. Bore is a big issue and make sure you get Western ignition. Make sure it has sights or is drilled for sights. 50 cal is pretty much the standard anymore. More accessories and bullet choices are available for the 50 than any other cal. Watch Gunbroker. Lot's of good deals at times.

I'm always hesitant of gunbroker. Especially with inspecting the bore.
Are muzzle loaders harder on barrels?

I was hesitant to buy mine on Gunbroker since they claimed it was a used gun. The pictures looked great and once it showed up in the mail it appeared to have never been fired even. Got my Bighorn for $125 shipped if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: T-Dozzer on February 26, 2017, 09:57:48 AM: Thats a "smoking" deal!
I'll check out GB
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: Harleysboss on February 28, 2017, 08:03:24 AM: If buying sight un seen off the web be sure and ask questions. Close ups of bore and breech plug area. Also make sure the breech plug is able to be removed easily . Ask to see pics of the plug in and re moved. Frozen plug would kill the deal for sure (usually means the rest of the gun is pitted and most likely junk. There are good deals just be careful.
Title: Re: Used- what to look for?
Post by: T-Dozzer on February 28, 2017, 11:46:35 AM: Quote from: Harleysboss on February 28, 2017, 08:03:24 AM
If buying sight un seen off the web be sure and ask questions. Close ups of bore and breech plug area. Also make sure the breech plug is able to be removed easily . Ask to see pics of the plug in and re moved. Frozen plug would kill the deal for sure (usually means the rest of the gun is pitted and most likely junk. There are good deals just be careful.

Good advice. Thanks