Description
The Traditions Black Powder Northwest Traditions Buckstalker .50 Caliber 24″ Barrel Cerakote Finish Black Composite Stock is a modern, no-fuss inline muzzleloader built for hunters who want a reliable, weather-resistant rifle without the high price tag. It’s a straightforward tool that gets you on target with minimal fuss. I’ve put a couple dozen rounds through one, and here’s my take.
Look, if you’re tired of cleaning up after a traditional sidelock or just want an affordable entry into black powder season, this Buckstalker deserves a hard look. At $291.58, it’s priced to move and ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Modern Inline Ignition: Uses #209 shotgun primers for reliable ignition, even in damp conditions.
- Cerakote Finish: That 24-inch barrel is coated for serious corrosion resistance—a huge plus for all-weather hunting.
- Composite Stock: Lightweight, durable, and impervious to the elements. It fits out of the box with a solid, no-wobble feel.
- Adjustable Trigger: A nice surprise at this price point, allowing you to fine-tune pull weight.
- Drilled & Tapped: Ready for scope mounting, no gunsmithing required.
Specs & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .50 |
| Barrel Length | 24 inches |
| Barrel Finish | Cerakote |
| Stock Material | Black Composite |
| Ignition System | #209 Primer, Inline |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40 inches |
Weighing in at a manageable 7.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day in the timber. The .50 caliber barrel is a versatile workhorse, happily digesting everything from patched round balls to modern saboted bullets. That versatility is key. You can load it light for target shooting or crank it up with a 150-grain charge and a heavy conical for elk. The ramrod is sturdy, and the breech plug design is simple enough for field stripping. Here’s the thing—it’s not trying to be a fancy custom rifle. It’s a functional, durable tool that does one job very well.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is the perfect muzzleloader for the Missouri hunter looking to extend their season. It’s for the guy who doesn’t want to baby a blued barrel or worry about a rainy day hunt ruining his finish. It’s also a fantastic first black powder rifle. The inline system is far less finicky than a flintlock or percussion cap, and the composite stock can take the bumps and scrapes of learning. If you’re a modern rifle shooter dipping a toe into traditional methods, the familiar feel and easy maintenance lower the barrier to entry significantly.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The Cerakote finish is a massive advantage for longevity. The price is almost unbeatable for a feature set this solid. The adjustable trigger is a standout. It’s lightweight and points naturally. The 209 primer system is widely available and very reliable.
Cons: It’s a basic rifle. You won’t get a fancy checkered stock or a butter-smooth custom action. The composite stock, while tough, doesn’t have the aesthetic warmth of wood. Some purists will turn their nose up at the inline design—but for practical hunting, that’s a feature, not a bug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of scope base does it use?
A: It’s drilled and tapped for a standard Weaver-style base, the same pattern used on countless modern rifles. Bases for a Remington 700 short action are typically a direct fit, making scope selection and mounting incredibly easy.
Q: Can I use loose powder or pellets?
A: Absolutely. The Buckstalker handles both Pyrodex pellets or loose black powder (and substitutes like Triple Seven) without issue. I’ve had good results with two 50-grain pellets for a 100-grain charge behind a 250-grain sabot.
Q: Is it difficult to clean?
A: Not at all. The inline design and simple breech plug make cleanup straightforward. Use warm, soapy water or a dedicated black powder solvent. The Cerakote finish means you don’t have to panic about flash rust while you’re drying it.
So, is the Traditions Buckstalker worth your money? For the hunter who values function over frills, the answer is a clear yes. It provides modern reliability at a traditional price, letting you focus on the hunt, not the hardware. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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