johnt,
That split stock cva was the first BP rifle that I ever owned, even put it together myself. The funny thing about cva's, is that even as cheap in quality as they are, they have very good barrels accuarcy wise. If you don't like BP shooting, then you don't have much into it. There are limitations (which you seem to be aware of) which don't make sense to go past in making the rifle any better then it already is. When you get to that point, buy something better and move on. The traditons are cheap just like the cva. Can' help you much on inlines, but if you decide to move up to really nice production or custom rifles, or even building of your own tradional style rifle, send me a message. BTW for a first BP rifle, the CVA will be a good learning tool. Keep your powder dry!
Wallynut