The Traditions Pursuit G4 is a value-priced break-action muzzleloader made in Spain that punches above its weight class in terms of ergonomics. It is designed for the hunter who values a light kit over a heavy, long-range bench rest setup. With its stainless steel finish and synthetic furniture, it is built to handle the moisture and grime that usually comes with late-season black powder hunts.
Specifications
- Action: Break-action
- Barrel: 26 inch Stainless Steel (Chromoly)
- Weight: 5.75 lbs (Lightweight for a modern muzzleloader)
- Ignition: 209 Shotgun Primer
- Twist Rate: 1:28
- Sights: Mine came with a rail and rings but some versions also have irons
- MSRP: $300-500 CAD
Usability
The best feature of the G4 is the weight. At under 6 lbs, you barely notice it on a sling during a long trek. For a budget-friendly rifle, the balance is surprisingly good.
It utilizes the Accelerator Breech Plug, which is super easy to use and makes it easy to clean. You can remove the plug by hand or with a tool they give you. Since it uses standard 209 shotgun primers, ignition is reliable and they’re easier to find than the No 10 or No 11 percussion caps found on more traditional percussion cap muzzleloaders.
Safeties: you got 2. You both need to cock the hammer (with a left/right swappable extension) and you also have a cross bolt safety.
The field rod it comes with is cheap feeling but actually pretty usable. I opted to use it instead of my range rod because it was good enough for the .490 balls that I use in 50 cal muzzleloaders. I like the plastic t-handle and I don’t mind the fact that you have to unscrew the extension and re-screw it on the other way to get just a bit more length. The t-handle would be nice if it stuck to the rod a bit better, it flew off the rod a couple times on me when I lifted the rod out of the bore.
The muzzle is counter-bored a bit to make loading sabot rounds easier.
Aftermarket and Potential Modifications
Because the Pursuit series is popular, there is plenty of support available:
- Optics: A standard 3-9×40 scope would work great but a red dot would work as well for close range work.
- Slings: Given how light the rifle is, a simple neoprene sling makes this a dream to carry all day.
Conclusion
The Traditions Pursuit G4 Stainless is a workhorse for the practical hunter. It isn’t a precision rig, but it is one of the easiest muzzleloaders to carry and clean on the market today. If you want a rifle that won’t break your back or your bank account, this is a top contender.
