.45 vs .50 for muzzleloaders

[Muleys 24/7]

I need input from you muzzleloader guys! I'm thinking about getting my first muzzleloader, I have the brand and model picked out but can't decide on the caliber.

I've heard from some that the .45 has higher volocity and plenty of knock down for deer and elk? I need some opinions on the knock down for elk with the .45. I understand in some states the .45 is not permitted for big game so I would have to get a .50 eventualy if I went with the .45. Another pro with the .45 is the rifle would be lighter.

Will the .45 shoot more accurate than the .50 at longer distances?

Any input is appreciated, thanks

 

[tdub24]

I own a Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter in .50 caliber. I have had no problems taking a mule deer at 120 yards and a 6 point bull at 170 yards. With open sights, I have it shooting 1.5" group 2" high at 100 yards using 3 - 50gr pyrodex pellets and shooting a 300gr. Thompson/Center Shockwave sabot. When I shot the bull, I had approx. 6-9 inch drop. I would feel comfortable taking a shot at any animal out to 220 yards or so, but strive to get as close as possible before pulling the trigger.

If you ever plan on hunting other states with your muzzleloader, might as well get the .50 to avoid any conflicts with state regualtions.

 

[Drhorsepower]

Get the .50! One day you might want to hunt a state that requires it is reason enough.

 

[Colorado Cowboy]

Get the .50! One day you might want to hunt a state that requires it is reason enough.

He is right, don't screw around with a .45.

 

[enysse]

Buy a 50 caliber. There are ton of options compared to the 45 and 54 caliber.

 

[Muleys 24/7]

Thanks guy's, I was leaning towards the 50 but wasn't sure.

 

[Fink]

I'd go with the .50. I'm not much of a muzzleloader, but when I was getting lined out, .45 stuff was a lot more scarce.

Plus, when you're shooting something that moves a little slower like a muzzleloader, you might as well throw a big ace bullet downrange.

 

[Drhorsepower]

What kind are you thinking about picking up?

 

[Muleys 24/7]

What kind are you thinking about picking up?

I'm thinking about getting the CVA accura. One of the main reasons why I was considering the .45, is for longer range shooting.

 

[Aught6Fan]

M24/7,
I'd definitely go with the .50 to avoid the caliber issue that some states have. Probably goes without saying, but I'd read the regs for the state(s) you plan to hunt and purchase accordingly. Many states have additional restrictions, like we do here in Idaho.

Unless you want to own several muzzleloaders, which isn't a bad idea either.
A6F

 

[Muleys 24/7]

Dose anyone on here own a .45 muzzleloader?

 

[enysse]

I own one. It's a Remington... Looks a lot like their model 700 rifle.
It shoots fine and you are right for a deer muzzleloader you get a little more range but it isn't much more. I prefer to use the 50 caliber just because I use the same load whether it was deer or moose. The load is 150 grains of triple 7 and 250 grain SST bullets. I zeroed the gun for 150 yards. I killed a 6x6 elk in NM in 2010 with it. I have a few 50 calibers but I use the TC Omega the most.

 

[Aught6Fan]

Sorry no. Trad muzzleloaders here....started with a .50 and went up.