Recommend FFFg hunting load for new CVA 50 cal

[jeffinnorthcarolina]

Gentlemen,

I'm looking for recommendations for FFFg hunting loads pushing 250 grain bullets for the CVA Optima LR 50 cal.

Background info:
After 35 years of hunting with a Thompson Center Hawken 50 cal with iron sights, I have retired the old faithful rifle. My 60 year old eyes aren't what they used to be and neither is the old rifle. I've repaired and replaced parts a few times along the way but unfortunately reliability has become an issue on two separate hunts last season.

I recently purchased the aforementioned CVA Optima LR 50 cal rifle - it's a very nice hunting rifle and I'm pleased with the purchase.
I'll be starting with the Hornady 250 grain SST bullet. It would seem that the powder of choice for this rifle is Blackhorn 209 but I can't see bending over to pay for a product that appears grossly inflated - that and I'm fine with real blackpowder.

Additional info:
I shot the No Exuses 385 grain all lead conical bullets with 60 grains of FFFg in the Thompson. I hunt south Georgia whitetails weight 90 - 150lbs and 90% of my shots are 30 to 50 yds.

Thanks for your replies.

 

[Robert Losekamp]

Hi Jeff, this forum is strictly for traditional muzzleloading. You may find answers relating to inlines at our sister site, www.modernmuzzleloader.com.