I have an old, left handed, TC Renegade in .54 caliber that won't shoot any modern bullet (in Sabots). I'd like to get a more modern closed breach rifle to replace it for muzzleloader season.

There are so many options now that can be shot ambidextrously that making the choice is tough.

What brand and model do you guys recommend for a scoped, .50 caliber rifle to use with modern sabot, bullets.

TC Encore ML inline ..
Or
Remington 700 ML …

Many other good choices as well

I have had a few modern ones; a TC, a Ruger, and ones I built on Mauser actions. One I built in the 70s and the game warden had to inspect it.
Anyway, they are like shooting a 30-06 for one shot; no challenge and a far cry from the original intent of BP season. I would ban them. Too late now though.
But I have killed deer with them; 209 primers, 777, and sabots or more often, CVA power belts. Zero challenge above any other rifle.
I even think cap locks are modern.

Thanks guys but the bolt action type (Rem, etc.) won't work for me since I'm left handed.

From everything that I've read I'm leaning towards the Traditions Vortek (striker fired, hand removeable breech plug for cleaning). But, If Thompson Center actually has guns for sale by this summer I would probably go with an Encore to let me switch between BP and modern gun barrels.

You don't work the bolt action to chamber a round; you just open the bolt to insert another primer. I think a left hander could train to do it.

quote:

Originally posted by dpcd:
You don't work the bolt action to chamber a round; you just open the bolt to insert another primer. I think a left hander could train to do it.

Maybe "won't work for me" is the wrong thing to say. I'm a lefty so I prefer to buy guns that fit my use, rather than adapting to a right handed gun.

I put ambidextrous controls on my ARs, etc. but I do prefer guns that work for me as is.

The Remington 700 ML is amazingly accurate... but its not really ideal as you do need to run a wet patch down the bore in order to reload the thing.

One shot and you are done... yep. Screw up and you spend quite a while getting it ready to shoot again.

I received this email from Thompson Center today:

Thanks for your TC inquiry. The new Encore Pro Hunter frame and rifle barrels are currently in production. I expect the Pro Hunter XT muzzleloaders to be in production in June/July. Thanks for your patience as we continue to increase our production capabilities here at the new facility in NH.

Sincerely,

CUSTOMER SERVICE

16 Plank Industrial Drive

Farmington, NH 03835

tcarms.com