https://greyhive.com/videos/watch/e9dc136c-a8b7-4542-90fe-8e7430ed523b In this episode of Mud Lake Ranch, Jared takes a deep dive into a unique spin on front-loaders with our full review of the CVA Optima XP series! Muzzleloading has evolved far beyond traditional black powder, and the Optima platform continues to bridge the gap between historic hunting seasons and modern ergonomics. We take this rig out on the range at Mud Lake Ranch to see if the "XP" variant lives up to the reputation of CVA's legendary inline accuracy. Whether you are trying to extend your hunting season, prepping for big game, or just curious about a modernized muzzleloader platform, this breakdown has you covered. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Introduction to Mud Lake Ranch 1:15 - A Wild Take on Modern Muzzleloaders 2:45 - CVA Optima XP Design & Specs 4:30 - Range Time & Field Performance 7:15 - Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance 9:00 - Final Verdict: Is it Worth It? About the CVA Optima XP & XP-SB Platform The Optima XP brings an adjustable, tactical feel to modern hunting black powder rifles. Built on the foundation of CVA's top-tier designs, it shifts away from traditional stocks to offer enhanced comfort and modularity. • Caliber: .50 Caliber • Barrel Options: Available in a standard 26” barrel or the ultra-maneuverable 18” Short Barrel (XP-SB) variant. • Stock & Grip: Features a specialized pistol grip and an adjustable buffer tube stock for a customized length of pull. • Optics Alignment: Equipped with bolt-on cheek risers to ensure your eye aligns perfectly with your scope. • Breech Access: Includes CVA's finger-removable Quick Release Breech Plug (QRBP) for tool-free takedown and effortless cleanup. Let us know in the comments: What is your go-to powder and projectile load for your late-season hunts? Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit that notification bell for more outdoor reviews right here from Mud Lake Ranch! #Muzzleloader #Hunting #BlackPowder #CVAOptima #MudLakeRanch #GunReview #DeerHunting #InlineMuzzleloader hunting #muzzleloader #blackpowder Thu, 22 Oct 2026 08:41:49 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PeerTube - https://greyhive.com https://greyhive.com/lazy-static/avatars/5746210d-885d-44b2-9be0-92bf1e4d34df.webp https://greyhive.com/videos/watch/e9dc136c-a8b7-4542-90fe-8e7430ed523b All rights reserved, unless otherwise specified in the terms specified at https://greyhive.com/about and potential licenses granted by each content's rightholder.