I had an Encore for several years and now have an Omega that I actually like better. You might consider looking at one as it's much cheaper (unless of course you know you want to have multiple barrels). I got the SS fluted, thumbhole camo stock version and absolutely love it. Sorry to stray off course, here are my recommendations. BTW, I live in Iowa and as a result have a ton of experience with muzzleloading, not bragging, just saying I definitely have some opinions...
Gun
Scope 3.5x10 is my preference
250 grain Hornady SST (TC Shockwave) or 250 Barnes TMZ
Triple 7 pellets (they're accurate and easy)
Winchester shotgun primers (they're cheap and always work)
Breach plug grease (they all work fine, use liberally)
Speed loaders (I like the ones that hold 3 clear tubes)
Patches (get good ones, don't waste your $ on soaked patches, spit works just fine)
Bullet starter
Bullet jag for loading tipped bullets
Brass jag
Brass brush (do not use steel)
Rubber palm handle (fits over ramrod if you don't have a power rod, mine hold a few extra primers)
Brushes (to clean the breach plug, make sure you get the tiny one to clean the flash hole, you don't want crud in there)
I always clean my barrel from the breach using soap and water, if I shoot a lot I might clean the barrel with a bronze brush but your only removing plastic, not copper fouling. Hope this helps, good luck muzzleloading!
Oh yeah, I was going to mention that a couple years ago I fell over backwards and hit the end of my Omega barrel on solid ice. It actually hit so hard it bent the barrel. I sent the gun to TC and told them it was my fault and I was bummed because it was only 1 year old and of the handful of muzzleloaders I have had over the years it was the most accurate (easy sub 1 MOA). They sent me a completely new stainless steel fluted barrel. That's SERIOUS customer service!!
