Recommendations for a kit rifle.

Built a T/C Hawken rifle from a kit when I was 20, that was 41 years ago. Like an idiot I know raded it off for something else. Looking to build another rifle. Nothing against Traditions, but looking for something a bit nicer, in percussion, maybe a long rifle style. Looking to spend around $500. Any suggestions? Probably 50 cal, no larger. May use it for deer hunting, but mostly for enjoyable range time.

Maybe I will have to increase my budget. I'm familiar with the Lyman as well as the Traditions, looking for something just a bit nicer. I will look into some of your suggestions, and any others that come this way. When I bought the T/C Hawken kit, the stock was walnut, and 40 years ago cost just under $100. I guess those days are long gone.

JeffG said:

Traditional muzzleloaders kits or not are pricey. If you don't want Lyman-level kits, the jump to better guns, more unique guns is substantial. I am going to say it's worth it. Better wood, better locks, more period accurate. Here is the company I went with, Sitting Fox, and some pics for you. My only proviso, make sure the lock mortise is inletted. That's a very tricky procedure.
http://sittingfoxmuzzleloaders.com/kits/

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I will check them out. I've come to the conclusion that I will have to double my budget if I want something nice.

JeffG said:

Traditional muzzleloaders kits or not are pricey. If you don't want Lyman-level kits, the jump to better guns, more unique guns is substantial. I am going to say it's worth it. Better wood, better locks, more period accurate. Here is the company I went with, Sitting Fox, and some pics for you. My only proviso, make sure the lock mortise is inletted. That's a very tricky procedure.
http://sittingfoxmuzzleloaders.com/kits/

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VERY nice rifles!

Kind of wanting a percussion rifle. The only other Blackpowder gun I own is a flintlock. I bought it at an estate sale, and even though I knew nothing about it, I knew it was worth more than they were asking, and I told them so. They sold it to me for their asking price anyway. It is a left handed rifle, and I'm right handed, but bought it anyway. Nice stock and a barrel made by someone by the name of Getz. From what I understand, he made some fine quality barrels. If anyone can tell me more about this one it would be appreciated.

troy fairweather said:

http://www.longrifles-pr.com/stockscomponents.shtml
I'd still locking for a lot this place has nice stuff and wood, maybe more work then you want but there nice for the money. Kits are on the right side of the page.

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I looked on their sight, they have some beautiful rifles.

As near as I can figure, it was a custom build on the late 1970s or early 1980s.

I was there once, many years ago. It would be a drive, but may be well worth it. Also saw a nice kit that can be had in percussion. About double my original budget. Just a matter of deciding on grade of wood. Pecotonica River kit.