If buying used, not a bad idea if you can find some locally, take a small LED light that will slide down the barrel so you can check for rust.
Used TCs have a huge base of parts available, pretty much the entire gun can be replaced. They’re reliable, and sturdy. Some excellent guns are/were made in Italy as well, but lack that “support”.
If buying new, I recommend Pedersoli. Still, I’d suggest you try to find a nice used one before plunking down big money on a newor custom until you’re certainit’s your “thing”.
I also recommend real black powder if available, followed by 777. Blackhorn 209 isn’t suitable for sidelocks under normal circumstances. Get a big bottle of Ballistol for cleaning.
