My Encore shoots about as well and is not too bad to clean. That being said if TN would let us use the 45/70 in ML season that is what I would use without doubt. I shot one of my best bucks this past year with the muzzleloader and all he did was fall for about 10 yards and was dead. What if I would have missed and he ran about 60 yards and stoped? I would not be able to get that 2nd shot off with my ml but you might be able to with that Handy 45/70. I must say it was cool seeing that buck fall as the smoke cleared. I'm in the if its legal use it camp I guess.
