Evolution of the muzzleloader is about the same as the evolution of the bow and arrow. Today's bow looks nothing like the long bow the American Indian used. Every person has to decide in their own mind just how far they want to go with their primitive sport. I used to say I would not shoot an inline muzzleloader but now I shoot one with a 3X9X40 scope on it and love it. It is still hunting to me and I enjoy it and that is what matters to me.

I know I'm being hypocritical here since I shoot a compound bow but I think as muzzle loaders get too advanced, they're no longer a primitive, short range weapon as the season seems to intend, so why not allow modern breechloaders as well when Savage offers a M/L that apparently gives little ground to them? This is not an "I don't agree or approve so they should be banned" rant, I just choose not to partake and will stick with my flintlock. Sarge, on a seperate note, we're having a hunter safety organizational meeting Monday evening and will be holding class at the rod & gun club on the 24th & 25th. Thanks for helping to get me involved and going, greatly appreciated.

For me with open sights I might shoot at an elk at 75 yds but 50 is my range restriction when hunting with a muzzleloader for deer. Is it primitive? No. Do I feel like I am hunting with the equivalent of a centerfire? Definitely not.
I have eaten enough muzzleloader tags to feel like it should still be seperate season.
For me the advances in technology just mean you are more likely to make a clean kill if you take a responsible shot. The hype about long range muzzleloading is one of the biggest threats to the sport if you ask me. I fully respect you for going for the primitive route but I think the issue is hunter behavior rather than the technology.

007,
I talked to Sgt. Clark today and he told me you have 40+ for your class.