Sounds like you have decided on the Savage. I looked at one but could not convince myself to buy a rifle that needs a throw away piece (I don't like the Knight for the same reason). My Omega shoots cloverleaf holes with 348gr. Powerbelts and 80gr. Pyrodex at 100 yards. I don't shoot longer than that so can't state 200 yard results. The guy that could not get groups must have had a real problem as everyone I know gets very good groups with the Omega. T/C would replace one if it was really that bad which I can not understand. The Savage is not much advantage in Arizona anyway as using smokeless is not allowed.

How ya doing skl1.

The Optima Pro is manufactored by CVA. The break open from Traditions that you may be thinking of is the Pursuit.

As for the CVA Optima Pro, you shouldn't have a problem with them, being a south paw, cause there butt stock is ambidextrous. CVA has come along ways in the past few years & are starting to put out quality front stuffers at a real reasonable price.

If you do decide to get a flintlock, It would be wise to buy one that is for left handed shooters, cause when you touch off the trigger & it ignites the priming powder & the gases escaping through the vent, you have a very good chance of tattooing your face with burning black powder that blows from the vent.It will leave perminant blue powder burns on you. I got nailed about 2 or 3 years ago & I was standing about 8 or 9 feet feet from my buddy when he touched it off, & those powder burns are still on my nose because I couldn't dig it all out with the point of my knife.Plus, be sure that you buy a quality rifle. It is worth the extra money spent. The cheaper guns are just that. CHEAP. good luck on your decision, shopping for one is a big part of the fun.