Manny --
I base my opinion of the Traditions/CVA lines (both made by Ardesa, in Spain; the "brand" names are just distribution companies) on my experience with barrels and locks of that type. The barrels are claimed by some to (possibly) be too soft or otherwise weak for extremely heavy loads; I can't say one way or another. Accuracy-wise, I've found them to generally shoot better than their owners do. As for the locks, I've stated in other posts and I'll state, again, here: with proper-sized flints, they spark well enough, but I personally prefer larger locks due to the increase in the amount of spark, given a larger frizzen, flint, and hammer throw. This isn't putting down the Spanish-made locks, it's stating a personal preference. Long story short: the Traditions is a good gun for the money. Unsolicited advice: I'd spend a little more and buy a Lyman Great Plains Rifle, due to its being closer to a historically correct design and having a little larger lock. I wouldn't feel deprived in the least, though, if finances dictated buying the Traditions. :thumbsup:
In advance, welcome to the club!