I bought my Howdah right after they came out (.20X.20). Well worth the cost in every aspect. The Howdah fills a unique place in my gun case. From squirrels to bigger game it will do the job. Pretty nice hall sweeper for HD. I have got 5 inch patterns at around 10 yards with Buck using 30 grains of Goex FFg. Patched round ball is holding good for me with the same charge. I stepped it up to 35 grains of FFg with 4-5, #4 Buck on top of the round ball (over shot card to hold it in place). Also had good results.
I don't think you will be disappointed in the long haul, cost becomes negligible over the time you will own it. Shooting it is kind of like New Years and the 4th of July rolled into one. Only thing better is my Walker - seen some nice guns also made from kits if you want to build one.
"Buck and Ball an American tradition since in the Revolution"