CVA Optima vs Accura V2 (2024)

I’ve heard the TC Encore FX is difficult to clean and the Pro Hunter has issues with blowback.

Are the CVA’s any good? Considering an Accura V2 for the Bergara barrel.

This would be my first muzzleloader and I’m in the north east so I’m not taking shots over 300 yards, and that’s probably a stretch.

USMC22 said:

I’ve heard the TC Encore FX is difficult to clean and the Pro Hunter has issues with blowback.

Are the CVA’s any good? Considering an Accura V2 for the Bergara barrel.

This would be my first muzzleloader and I’m in the north east so I’m not taking shots over 300 yards, and that’s probably a stretch.

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Either of the CVAs you mention is a good first rifle. As with everything, there is a learning curve associated with shooting blackpowder, which is better to experience while shooting a rifle that doesn't cost a thousand dollars. If you want to use BH209 as a propellant, make sure to purchase the breech plug they make specifically for that purpose, which is about $20. The only difference is the diameter of the flash hole, but BH209 will not ignite reliably without it.

Mostly, get out there to get familiar with your setup, and budget twice the time you normally would for a range day and cleaning. It's a blast.

2blade said:

My CVA Mtn rifle can almost produce a 5 holes touching group at 100 yds. Most accurate muzzy I have ever shot.

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Is the Mountain Rifle drilled/tapped for a front sight? I like the looks of the stock on the MR better, but I’m in WA, so no scopes.

MR is not drilled and tapped. My friend has that rifle setup for Colorado, shoots lights out with Williams peep. I have 2 CVA setups, I have NW edition accura setup with 209 primers and caps. Easy adjustments and setup for traveling to states with varying open sight, bullet and ignition system rules, shoots very accurate. I am using Thor bullets in the NW Accura V2 and swapping between Pyrodex loose and BH 209, depending upon the breech plug. My second setup is dead nuts awesome. Accura V2 LR with 2-7 Leupold, Blackhorn 209, Hornady SST Sabot loads. Pure death on anything under 200. I jacked with a few lower end muzzleloaders over the years and would recommend spending the extra to get one that shoots good and is EASY to clean with removable breech plug or it will gather dust like my Thompson Center Renegade does waiting for that one long weekend hunt each year.

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ryan80 said:

Resurecting this thread. I plan on getting either the Optima V2 or paying another $100 for the Accura V2. I had planned on using Blackhorn 209 and CCI 209 primers. Is the barrel the only real difference? Do I need the other breach plug for this setup? Thanks!

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If you want to run BH209 with either you will need the BH209 specific breechplug. I think the Bergara barrel and better stock are worth the extra $100 IMO.

Are you hunting or possibly will hunt in an area that requires open sights?

ryan80 said:

Thank u for the replies so far. I am not sure if I will be hunting in an area requiring sights, but i grew up with open sights and actually like the idea of sticking with open sights on this rifle for the time being.

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Just make sure you find a model that is drilled and tapped at the muzzle! CVA made it hard on all of us by doing this on some but not all. Here's what I have heard or seen so far--

1. Accura V2-- all rifles are prepped for front sight, had 2 and seen dozens others
2. Accura MR-- some are, some aren't-- MINE already was so I installed a peep/globe combo and it was a PITA.
3. Accura PR-- NONE are prepped, have only seen a few
4. Accura v2 LONG RANGE-- about half and half as verified by CVA- Ive seen several in store (Scheels) that were tapped and heard that many ARE NOT.

Best way to guarantee is go with the V2 (no real reason not too) and get it ordered with irons... then you can get a scope mount whenever you want but you know dang well you will have holes for irons!

For my $.02, I've used the Optima V2 on a few hunts over a few years now and I've been happy with how it performs. I use BH209 (with the appropriate breach plug) and Federal 209A primers. With .44 mag 240 grain XTP bullets, Hornady sabots, and 110 grains of powder, I get sub MOA groups all day long (with a powered scope... The groups open up a touch with open sights, but that happens even with modern centerfire rifles for me). And this combo does a fine job taking down northern whitetails.

But, I would be inclined to agree with others that the Accura is worth the extra money. I just happened to find an Optima (SS barrel black stock) at a steal-of-a-deal. If you can't swing the extra $$, don't regret "settling" for an Optima.

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