Author Topic: sidekick and the optima, good and bad please? (Read 609 times)

thelaw · « **on:** November 30, 2005, 09:22:20 AM »

wanting to get back into muzzleloading. these 2 rifles are in my price range. i guess i would like a little persuasion perhaps as to which i should go with. i'm curious as to what kind of accuracy is possible with these rifles and what is considered good accuracy? any safety concerns? also, is using the 150gr. max charge really benefical? where i hunt deer, the longest shot will be about 100 yards or so. any info will be greatly appreciated. thanks

slayer · « **Reply #1 on:** November 30, 2005, 01:48:13 PM »

I love T/C`s man, but not the Omega, too out there for me. I do own 3 other traditional T/c`s and love them. Between the 2 you chose, the Sidekick wood/blue will be half the price of the Omega Z5 and shoots just as well. I would opt for the Sidekick and put the rest of the money into a case and shooting supplies. The Sidekick shoots like a dream!! Jack.

Keith Lewis · « **Reply #2 on:** November 30, 2005, 05:12:09 PM »

I think he said Optima not Omega. I personally would not buy the spanish barrel Optima. I would recommend going with an american made barrel and rifle. There are too many reports of spanish barrel failures.

Redhawk1 · « **Reply #3 on:** December 01, 2005, 12:56:14 AM »

Of the two you listed, go with the sidekick.The optima is junk in my opinion. As far as 150 gr. loads, I don't use them. I did not get as good of accuracy from the 90 or 100 gr. loads. Now if Elk were on the menu, I would have to work up a 120 to 150 load.

mt_jeep · « **Reply #4 on:** December 01, 2005, 07:35:51 AM »

I have the Sidekick and have no regrets. Purchase a range rod and only use the rod supplied with the Sidekick for follow-up shots in the field.

I have found mine to be accurate: 4" group with 110 gr 777 and 260 gr Dead Centers at 200 yards. Although I have to add that I have the 25 acp conversion... don't know if that helps or not.

AND the barrel is easily removed for cleaning.

Good Hunting!

slayer · « **Reply #5 on:** December 01, 2005, 10:00:28 AM »

Oops, may bad

I also stay away from the Import stuff, T/C and Green Mountain for me

Jack.

elkstalkr · « **Reply #6 on:** December 01, 2005, 10:25:17 AM »

sidekick

thelaw · « **Reply #7 on:** December 01, 2005, 02:10:38 PM »

thanks for the info. how often do you shoot between cleanings? also, any bullet and powder recommendations? its been about 10 years since i've done it and it seems there is a lot of new stuff out there.