States that require shotguns for deer hunting usually do so for safety reasons. Since shotguns fire a heavy rifled slug, the range is relatively short. This safety measure is especially appealing in states with flat terrain such as Illinois or Iowa where high-powered rifles can shoot a mile or more.
Modern Rifle Slugs
Shotgun deer hunting technology has progressed far beyond the “pumkin ball” of old. Today’s modern sabot and rifled slugs are capable of accurate shots that rival center-fire cartridges such as the .44 Magnum, .357 magnum, and the powerful 45-70 government. Since straight-wall cartridges like the .30-30 shoot with a similar trajectory of a heavy center-fire bullet, why not allow those cartridges as well?
Niche Firearms
Traditions has a reputation for building quality muzzleloading rifles and has specialized in this shotgun alternative market with the Outfitter series. These rifles are not cheap imitations of classic cartridges, but break-action, single shot, models with German engineered barrels for excellent accuracy. They come in packages that includes a scope that is bore-sighted at the factory. I recently tested one that required a mere two clicks of windage to have the rifle shooting dead on.
Sarah has the Whole Story
This YouTube Video tells many of the key elements of the Traditions Outfitter line.
