Thinking about buying a ML...

[MI.sabot]

For starters....I've never owned or shot a ML. But I'm considering the purchase of one to extend the hunting season a little longer here in Michigan.

Don't know the first thing about them. So please bear with me and I would really appreciate to hear your comments and fill me in with whatever bits of info I should consider and need to know.

I recently ran across some posts regarding the NEF sidekick and huntsman ML's. Up until now, all I've heard talk about is the T/C Omega.

First, what's the difference between the Sidekick and Huntsman? Is one better than the other? Why?

How do these compare to the Omega?

I personally like the wood/blued versions of the NEF ML's. What price range do these run in? I believe the Omega is around $399.

There seems to be a difference in regards to how the primers are held in place between the NEF and T/C. What's the advantages/disadvantages of each?

What's the .25acp references I've seen. Is this something worth doing?

I'm really concerned with ease of use and ease in cleaning. I'm the kind if something can go wrong it will. The simpler the better. How do these models compare in this regard?

Is scoping a ML something to consider now or wait until I get comfortable with using it? What type or range are these accurate to just using the fiber optic sights? (I know this is a subjective question.)

Anyways, whatever you guys can pass along I'd love to hear it. Thanks!

[poncaguy]

Omega Z5, less than $300, accurate, easy to load and clean. No plastic do hickies to mess with..........

[slayer]

I own a Wood/Blue Sidekick, best $159.99 I ever spent!! Shoots everything very accurately. I use the Veriflame system that you can shoot small pistol or small rifle primers, better and cleaner than 209 primers. The Sidekick breechplug has a terrible tool to get it out, mine is frozen up, but I will just leave it in there, and clean it like a traditional muzzleloader. I use a 245 grain Buffalo Bullet Ball-Et in front of 90 grain of Goex FFG, although with 70-80 grain of said powder, it will shoot roundballs very good also up to 50 yards. Jack.