[Jeff Higgins]

That's funny, I've hunted a bit in Wisconsin (both kids were in school there). The places we hunt have pretty good Amish and/or Mennonite populations (I'm afraid I can't tell the difference). The ones I've met hunt with shotguns were they have to, and normal centerfires where they can. The biggest buck I ever saw in Wisconsin was killed by a young man driving his horse drawn buggy, with his traditional clothing and beard. Nice guy, too. He knew an awful lot about his Model '94, and which .30-30 loads he liked best for deer.

I'm glad you are good to go with the Wolf 209. I've heard good things about that rifle. Now the kid will have some very informative and entertaining reading to get him through the winter, and properly prepared for next season as well. There is a lot more to this than meets the eye, which is, of course, a good deal of the fun.

HardDrive, if you cannot get something worked out that is 100% accurate and reliable before you take the field with it, it would be less than ethical to do so. How about your dad? Has he had any experience with muzzle loaders? If so, maybe he can help you when you get there, before you guys go out. If not, and he is struggling like you, you guys should wait a year and get these things figured out.