In Illinois we can use a muzzle loader during the shot gun seasons,
which are the first weekend before Thanksgiving, and the first four day weekend after turkey day. Then the following 3 day weekend is a muzzle loader only season.

I plan on using my Encore with a 9" MGM barrel in 357 for my first deer. Then I will switch to my brand new CVA Optima 50 cal muzzle loading handgun.