New to NEF's... Sorry if it's a dumb question

[Chumleyhunts]

Hey guys, I'm new to this forum, and am glad I found it. My question may be simple, but I just want to make sure I have the right info. I have a NEF .50 Muzzleloader. I know that some can and some can't be fitted with centerfire barrels. What do I have to check on mine to be certain? Also, I am thinking that a .45-70 would be a neat "brush gun" to have in this gun. Anyone have any experience with one?

[Keith Lewis]

If the Huntsman was sold as a muzzleloader only it is likely the shotgun action. The firing pin is larger and the strength of the action is not as strong as the center fire actions. Consequently the only other barrel that can be fitted to that action is the shotgun barrel. You can probably buy the NEF in 45-70 as a complete rifle for little more than haveing a barrel fitted to the action you have anyway. Then you would have an action that other center fire barrels can be fitted to. Some Huntsmans were sold as combo rifles with 243 barrels and those will accept other centerfire barrels. Hope this helps.

[Jal5]

You will find that nothing is a "dumb" question hear and everyone is very willing to answer all questions. I have learned a lot from the folks here and there are people that are way more experienced in all aspects of shooting/hunting here than I am!

[Win 73]

I've always heard that the only dumb question is the one you didn't ask.

[Keith Lewis]

After re-reading your original post; you didn't say if it is a Huntsman or a Sidekick. The Sidekick cannot take any barrel other than the muzzleloader it came with. The Huntsman is usually a shotgun receiver and in rare cases when sold as a combo might have a centerfire firing pin. Already mentioned that the whole rifle is probably almost as reasonable without having to switch barrels.