What's the difference in the cost of in-lines? I think sometimes you pay for the name, but something else has to be different. They range from ~$150 to over $500. I would like to get my son one, but am confused on what to get. Thanks

Doug

The difference?  Quality.  That $150 CVA or Traditions isn't the same gun as a $350 T/C or Knight.

Look at the T/C Omega or Triumph.  The Omega Z5 is only $310.  If money didn't matter, I would try the T/C Encore.

I agree with Burley.  T/C rifles are top-notch.  I hunted for years with one of their less expensive rifles, a T/C Black Diamond (stainless, black composite stock).  It was accurate, light, and it's compact size was perfect for some of the jungles of eastern Virginia.  

T/C makes great guns.  They exhibit a high degree of workmanship.  

I don't hunt much anymore, but my son wants a .22.  T/C's R-55 rifle is on the short-list of contenders.

If you can afford it buy a stainless.  You and your boy will be better off.  They do not rust as easily.

Burley is right.  

When you purchase one look at how easily it disassembles.  They have come along way.  TC's are some of the easiest.

Buying for your son go with the Knight Wolverine 209 Youth Value Pack it has everything you need in one package for $288. It is a good rifle and perfect for the beginner has EVERYTHING you need in the kit even the clening kit. The only thing you will have to buy extra is the powder and primer caps.   I got one of these kits for myself years ago when I first started using a muzzleloader and I still use it, I am however upgrading it to the 209 primer breech that it comes with now.

Here is a link to it:

http://www.knightrifles.com/catalog.aspx?catid=wolverine209

If you can hold off until right before Christmas or after, some stores have great deals.  My dad got a $400 knight two years ago for $99 at dicks sporting goods.  Also, these muzzleloaders are far easier to clean and better than before.  Brands such as CVA or Traditions actually are good guns for beginners.  I also saw a neat looking Remington last year that was under $200  I'm not sure how they shoot, but it was light and easy to load.