Description
Picture this: you’re in a Missouri treestand during the late muzzleloader season. The big bucks that vanished during rifle season are moving again, but the weather’s turned—a cold drizzle is falling, and the air is thick with moisture. You need a rifle that won’t let you down when the conditions are at their worst, a tool that’s as reliable as your own patience. That’s the exact scenario the Thompson/Center Bone Collector Muzzleloader .50 Cal 28″Fluted Barrel Weather Shield Finish Black Composite Stock was built for. I’ve put a fair number of Pyrodex pellets and saboted bullets through this platform, and it’s earned its keep in the wet and the cold.
So, what is it? The Thompson/Center Bone Collector Muzzleloader is a modern, in-line .50 caliber muzzleloader designed for serious hunters. It features a 28-inch fluted barrel with a Weather Shield corrosion-resistant finish, a black composite stock, and a host of features aimed at improving accuracy, handling, and reliability in harsh conditions. It’s a purpose-built tool for extending your season, and it ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Let’s talk about that Weather Shield finish. Here’s the thing—traditional bluing is a liability in a muzzleloader season that often coincides with rain, sleet, and snow. The proprietary Weather Shield coating on the barrel and action is a game-saver. I’ve packed this rifle out in a downpour, and while I was soaked, a quick wipe-down showed zero signs of immediate surface rust. That peace of mind is huge when your gear is exposed to the elements all day. The 28-inch barrel is fluted, which not only looks sharp but shaves some weight and aids in cooling. The .50 caliber bore is versatile, readily accepting a wide range of saboted bullets and pellets or loose powder.
The composite stock is where the “Bone Collector” heritage shines. It’s not just black plastic; it’s textured in the right places for a solid grip with cold or wet hands. The ergonomics are comfortable for a long hold, and the straight comb aligns your eye naturally with the scope. Speaking of optics, this rifle is drilled and tapped, ready for your favorite scope mounts. I found it to be drop-in ready for a set of Warne Maxima bases, requiring no gunsmithing to get a solid, reliable optic platform. The trigger is the T/C adjustable Match Grade unit, and out of the box, it breaks cleanly—a critical feature for precision at extended muzzleloader ranges.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .50 |
| Barrel | 28″ Fluted, Weather Shield Finish |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Stock | Black Composite |
| Ignition | In-line 209 Primer |
Pros & Cons, Straight Up
Pros: The Weather Shield finish is genuinely effective for corrosion resistance. The fluted barrel and composite stock make for a well-balanced, easy-carrying rifle. The adjustable trigger is a significant advantage over many factory muzzleloader triggers. The design is simple to clean and maintain.
Cons: As with any quality muzzleloader, you’re looking at an investment. At $562.86, it’s not an impulse buy. It’s also a single-shot, of course, so make your first one count—but that’s part of the challenge and appeal.
Who is this muzzleloader for? It’s for the hunter who views the muzzleloader season not as a consolation prize, but as a primary opportunity. You’re the hunter who targets pressured, smart bucks after the gun season closes. You appreciate the extended range and modern reliability of an in-line system but don’t want to baby your gear. You need a rifle that can handle a week in a damp deer camp and still perform flawlessly when the moment of truth arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What propellant does this muzzleloader use?
A: It’s designed for use with loose black powder substitutes like Pyrodex or Triple Seven, or with pelletized systems like Hodgdon Pyrodex Pellets. Always consult the manual for specific load recommendations and maximum charges.
Q: Is it compatible with common muzzleloader accessories?
A: Yes. It uses standard 209 shotshell primers for ignition, which are widely available. The .50 caliber bore accepts standard .50 cal sabots and bullets, and cleaning is done with common .50 cal patches and solvents.
Q: Can I use a scope on this rifle?
A: Absolutely. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for scope bases. Popular one-piece mounts from brands like Warne or Weaver fit perfectly, allowing you to mount a low-powered variable scope ideal for muzzleloader hunting ranges.
If you’re ready to tackle the late season with a muzzleloader built for the challenge, this Thompson/Center Bone Collector is a solid choice. You can find it available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.