I have been shooting an optima for 4 years. I have an old redfield variable 2-6x scope on it. I shoot 2 white hot pellets under a t/c cheap shot 240 grn HP lead bullet and black sabot (those are about 5 bucks for 20 shots) the accuracy is astounding. I regularly shoot 1.5 inch groups at 100 yards. Recoil is manageable like a stout 44 mag load. i routinely practice to 150 yards with 3 inch groups with this setup and shot a deer two years ago at 120 yards. recovered the bullet under the skin on the off broken shoulder. this is the only bullet i have recovered to date. My rig doesn't like the power belts or pyrodex.