Hi, I recommend you get a Kibler kit, I've built 2 of the colonials but whichever you like they are not hard to build, almost snap together, especially if you got the newer kit, the woodsrunner. One thing to think about is the lower caliber the heavier the barrel due to more metal! If you would go to a higher caliber the barrel will weigh less, that means lower weight for the whole gun, my .54 cal. I got to weigh around 8.5lbs.Looking to buy my first flintlock, preferably full stock and .45 caliber. Would like to stay under $1000, any thoughts or suggestions. Would like a gun already built, not a kit.
Also, if you get the SMR kit the but plate fits the upper arm, not the shoulder, things to think about!
Kits run $800.00 plus $300.00 for the lock which always gives a spark plus Jim Kibler stands behind his products.
Good luck to you, no matter which way you go!