try to simplify confusion

[okieshooter]

you have a encore 25-06 with heavy barrel and blued frame, 600-800 dollars to burn, wifes permission , and absolutely must come out with muzzleloader. what would you buy?? barrels or entire 209x50 frame?? I feel like a PITA but I want some opinions here guys, I have to decide before my better half changes her mind.

[rpharder]

First of all go for the $800. I would look for a great deal on a complete muzzleloader first and then sell off the frame and buttstock. I find you can usually buy a complete package cheaper than it individual parts. That will maybe give you more cash for more barrels. I have seen some great prices on some of the older Encores because everyone seems to want the Pro Hunter now. Personally I don't see that much difference between the two.

[rpharder]

PM sent

[Grumulkin]

One difference between the old and the new frames is that the new ones don't have a trigger over travel screw.  For that reason, I would prefer an older frame.

As for whether to buy just a barrel or the entire gun with a frame; that is easy.  Buy the entire gun.  As your addiction grows you will accumulate more barrels and won't be wanting to switch barrels on frames all the time.

Also, if you buy Warne Weaver style bases and their QD rings, you can easily switch scopes between barrels.

[yooper77]

I would buy barrels and Leupold VX-II scopes, the deals are out there if your patient.

I have only one older blue frame, so I interchange barrels all the time.

yooper77