{"id":15850,"date":"2013-03-24T22:27:29","date_gmt":"2013-03-25T02:27:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/?p=15850"},"modified":"2026-01-13T06:38:41","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T12:38:41","slug":"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/","title":{"rendered":"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol"},"content":{"rendered":"<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/administration\/user\/GunsAmericaRegistration.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/subscribe+long+banner_001.jpg\" alt=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>\n<div id=\"attachment_15847\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15847\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15847\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor-400x241.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor-400x241.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor-150x90.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor-1024x618.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15847\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Although designed for primitive-weapons hunting seasons, the Optima V2 may be gaining favor with long-haul truckers.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>By Guy J. Sagi<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bpioutdoors.com\/cva\/home\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\">CVA<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The cargo hijacked from tractor trailers each year in the U.S. is valued at more than \u00bd billion dollars, and the encounters are often violent. Carrying a gun over state lines, especially loaded and ready for action, is a tricky legal problem. In some states and municipalities it is a felony just to possess a loaded firearm in the driver compartment of your vehicle. The old adage, &#8220;I&#8217;d rather be judged by twelve than carried by six,&#8221; may sound great, and you may believe it from your armchair, but on the road in the middle of nowhere, including nowhereland inner cities, the choice may mean life and death, or loss of liberty and livelihood.<\/p>\n<p>One approach, which we discussed in an article called &#8220;<a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"\/blog\/percussion-pistols-a-handgun-when-you-cant-buy-a-handgun\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Handgun When you Can&#8217;t Own a Handgun<\/a>,&#8221; is to carry some sort of non-cartridge black powder firearm. Our focus in the article was the 1858 Remington revolver, but recent booming sales of this CVA Optima V2 we were recently able to test has a lot of people wondering if this little dandy has become a favorite for over the road truckers who want to protect themselves by whatever legal means possible. A muzzleloader doesn\u2019t fall under the Federal definition of a firearm, but beware that in many states an municipalities a non-cartridge firearm is thought of the same way as a cartridge gun. In Las Vegas for example, the law intentionally includes anything capable of launching a \u201cprojectile.\u201d New York state specifically addresses non-cartridge firearms, and in Michigan there is no difference between a cartridge and non-cartridge firearm. You even have to buy black powder guns from a gun dealer there. Don&#8217;t fool yourself into thinking that you are getting one over on the anti-gun politicians. Before you decide to carry a black powder firearm as your only &#8220;legal&#8221; option, make sure it is legal.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15803\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15803\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15803\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing-400x188.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"188\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing-400x188.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing-150x70.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing-1024x482.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rightfacing.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15803\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Overall length of the Optima is 18 1\/4 inches and it tips the scales at 3.7 pounds.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol would be pretty hard to deploy from concealment in a car, at 18\u00bc inches long, 5 7\/8 inches tall and 1 3\/8 inches wide. Thankfully, truck cabs are a little more generous in regard to space and the 14-inch stainless steel barrel allows it to blend nicely with tire iron collections. It\u2019s also heavy, at 3.7 pounds, sans optic, powder and bullet, so it may not be the right gun for those slight of build.<\/p>\n<p>CVA makes some of the most accurate muzzleloaders on the planet, as we\u2019ve <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"\/blog\/the-tc-omega-and-cva-optima-gun-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">seen before<\/a>. It starts with that <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bergarausa.com\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bergara<\/a>-made barrel. Bergara begins its manufacturing process by first inspecting and straightening each of the steel cylinders that will become a barrel. Not every company subscribes to this step. If a deviation of .004 inch or more is detected the blank is rejected or straightened. Then the barrel is drilled and honed. The interior has a mirror-like finish after this process, thanks to the diamond-tipped bits that leave no machine marks. A carbide bit now passes through the barrel, which produces the rifling (so-called button rifling) needed to stabilize bullets. The entire process can slightly alter the barrel at the molecular level, which can compromise accuracy. The last step in the Bergara barrel-making process addresses that concern by reheating the barrel to relieve stress. The 14-inch barrel in the Optima has a rifling rate of 1 twist in 28 inches and the Spanish company has a well-earned reputation for producing some of the finest barrels available today.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15852\" style=\"width: 312px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15852\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15852\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver-302x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"302\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver-302x300.jpg 302w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver-1024x1017.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver-322x320.jpg 322w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-palm-saver.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 302px) 100vw, 302px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15852\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Palm Saver was greatly appreciated during range sessions and it&#8217;s shaped so that after being threaded on the ramrod it will not come loose.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This is a thick gun, .816 inch at the muzzle and .997 inch at the back. CVA uses fluting to reduce a little weight, and it\u2019s not overstated with four of the six grooves measuring 5\u00bc inches in length. The relatively hidden pair underneath are shorter, only 1\u00be inches long.<\/p>\n<p>A Bullet Guiding Muzzle helps ease loading chores on CVA muzzleloaders by effectively holding the bullet fully upright during initial ramrod operation with something of a &#8220;throat&#8221; for the bullet. This keeps it straight at the start of seating, so as you apply heavier pressure the bullet doesn&#8217;t get cockeyed. If you\u2019ve ever started to apply pressure to a bullet on a muzzleloader and had it teeter off center, you know well the frustration this system helps avoid.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15844\" style=\"width: 281px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15844\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15844\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod-271x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"271\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod-271x300.jpg 271w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod-135x150.jpg 135w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod-928x1024.jpg 928w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod-290x320.jpg 290w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-brass-rod.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 271px) 100vw, 271px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15844\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This brass rod must be attached to the ramrod for loading the Optima.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The throat is a great idea someone should have figured out a long time ago. CVA stops the barrel\u2019s rifling slightly before it reaches the muzzle end. But, the hole at the muzzle is .520 inch wide, and the smooth sides for the \u00bc inch before rifling begins allow the bullet to remain secure until a ramrod is applied.<\/p>\n<p>The Optima has a 4\u00be inch <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.durasight.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DuraSight<\/a> Z-2 Scope Rail atop its receiver, but eye relief forced the <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.leupold.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Leupold<\/a> VX-1 2-7&#215;33 mm mounted for testing as far rearward as it could go. The gun is tapped for iron sights and the rail can be removed by backing out six hex screws.<\/p>\n<p>To fire the gun, the hammer must be cocked. Unfortunately, magnified optics have a habit of getting in the way. The Optima\u2019s extended hammer spur remedies the problem by providing an additional .45 inch of slightly offset gripping surface. The grooved, .284-inch diameter extension ensures purchase in wet or cold conditions and left handers can change the spur to the other side of the hammer.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15859\" style=\"width: 385px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15859\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15859\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1-375x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"375\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1-375x300.jpg 375w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1-150x119.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1-1024x817.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1-400x320.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15859\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One three-shot group at 50 yards with one 50-grain pellet of Hodgdon Triple 7 produced a 1.5 inch group.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Triggers on CVA muzzleloaders are always a pleasure. This one had a let-off weight of 2.5 pounds, it was consistent, had no creep and if there was any takeup it was nearly impossible to detect. Many hunting firearms shun triggers this light to avoid accidental discharges, and for good reason. When afield, things are dropped, branches are brushed and feeling can disappear from wintertime fingers. CVA takes advantage of this muzzleloader\u2019s type of operation to provide the kind of trigger shooters dream about.<\/p>\n<p>If you have used muzzleloaders before, you\u2019ll have an instant appreciation of CVA\u2019s Quick Release Breech Plug. The grooved plug is nearly one inch in diameter on the outside and it provides a grip solid enough that no tools are required for removal. In testing it was a breeze to use.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15856\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15856\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15856\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted-400x290.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted-400x290.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted-1024x743.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-scope-mounted.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15856\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The rail works well and attaching the Leupold was a breeze with the QD mounts.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Operation of the Optima is pretty much standard for an in-line muzzleloader. Always make sure the barrel is clear of any obstructions before loading. To do so, you must first open the action.<\/p>\n<p>With the gun pointed in a safe direction, and while keeping your finger off the trigger, grab the pistol by the grip. Wrap your index finger on the spur or extension that comes down from the triggerguard and squeeze. Now with your other hand, grab the barrel away from the muzzle and you will be able to rotate the action open. The barrel will go down relative to the grip.<\/p>\n<p>Unscrew the breech plug and look down the barrel from the back. Make sure there is nothing inside and that it is clean before proceeding. If there is an obstruction, use the ramrod to remove it.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15849\" style=\"width: 304px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15849\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15849\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter-294x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"294\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter-294x300.jpg 294w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter-147x150.jpg 147w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter-1006x1024.jpg 1006w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter-314x320.jpg 314w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-muzzle-starter.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 294px) 100vw, 294px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15849\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Bullet Guiding Muzzle holds the bullet in place nicely before the ramrod is applied.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Replace the breech plug, close the gun and you\u2019re ready to load. The Optima V-2 can use up to 100 grains of blackpowder or blackpowder substitute. The minimum recommended load is 50 grains. Never use smokeless powder. Before beginning the loading process, remove the ramrod from underneath the barrel.<\/p>\n<p>If you are using granulated powder, carefully measure your charge in a separate container or flask. Then pour it into the barrel from the muzzle end. If you are using pellets, insert the right number of pellets. For testing we used <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hodgdon.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hodgdon<\/a> Triple Seven pellets.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15848\" style=\"width: 361px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15848\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15848\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur-351x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"351\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur-351x300.jpg 351w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur-150x128.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur-1024x873.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur-375x320.jpg 375w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-hammer-spur.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 351px) 100vw, 351px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15848\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The hammer spur ensures the hammer can be cocked, even when a magnified optic is aboard.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Now take your bullet and insert it into the muzzle. It will sit nicely in the Bullet Guiding Muzzle while you get your ramrod. If you have not done so already, assemble the ramrod with the brass extension provided with the Optima V2. Without it, you will not be able to fully seat the bullet and charge, which can also create a dangerous situation.<\/p>\n<p>CVA\u2019s polymer Palm Saver is an ingenious device that will save you tons of discomfort as you load. Thread it onto the longer piece of the ramrod and you\u2019re ready to push your charge firmly to the bottom of the barrel. The Palm Saver\u2019s shape allows it to ride with the gun and not come off, so feel free to leave it on.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15854\" style=\"width: 251px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15854\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15854\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver-241x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"241\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver-241x300.jpg 241w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver-120x150.jpg 120w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver-825x1024.jpg 825w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver-257x320.jpg 257w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-receiver.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 241px) 100vw, 241px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15854\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Optima&#8217;s frame is beefy enough for years or rugged service and the gun comes with a lifetime warranty.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Then use the ramrod to force the bullet down the barrel and ultimately atop the charge (the blackpowder or blackpowder substitute). A bullet starter helps, but isn\u2019t really necessary on a gun this short. It\u2019s also a good idea to mark the ramrod at the muzzle once you\u2019ve successfully loaded to ensure it reaches the same mark every time you load. Muzzleloaders get dirty fast and it\u2019s easy to think the bullet is all the way down when it is not. The bullet must be resting against the charge each and every time the gun is shot.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15857\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15857\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15857\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target-400x187.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target-400x187.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target-150x70.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target-1024x480.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-target.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15857\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">With two 50-grain Hodgdon Triple 7 pellets, groups at 50 yards widened considerably.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The last step is to open the handgun and insert a 209 primer into the breech plug. Close the gun and you\u2019re ready to fire. There are no safeties on this gun, except the most important one (between your ears), so don\u2019t cock the hammer until you\u2019re ready to fire and always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15846\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15846\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15846\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped-400x227.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"227\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped-400x227.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped-150x85.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped-1024x581.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-field-stripped.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15846\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Field stripping the Optima is easy and only requires the removal of a screw below the fore-end.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>For testing <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/search?keyword=remington%2011-48\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\">Remington Kleanbore<\/a> 209 primers were used and PowerBelt 245-grain AeroTip bullets. The scope set at two power magnification. The <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rcbs.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">RCBS<\/a> AmmoMaster Chronograph measured the bullets with one, 50-grain Triple 7 pellet at a five-shot average of 893 fps. That load was a downright pleasure to shoot and one of the three-shot groups at 50 yards managed to measure 1.5 inches. Average for all four, three-shot groups was 1.9 inches from a sandbagged rest, though.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15798\" style=\"width: 343px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15798\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15798\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer-333x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Omega\" width=\"333\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer-333x300.jpg 333w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer-150x134.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer-1024x920.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer-355x320.jpg 355w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-hammer.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15798\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The hammer spur can be changed to the other side for left-handed use.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Things changed with two Triple 7 pellets. Despite using the same setup, average group size rose to slightly more than four inches and the best measured 3\u00bd. The first two shots would be close, then the third would wander for no reason. The same was true with the 1.5 inch group with the reduced charge. The scope appeared firmly anchored after testing, ruling out one possible culprit. Barrel heating didn\u2019t seem to be a problem on the 57 degree testing day, either. Velocity was a scalding 1,537 fps with two pellets. As the gun was set up, it was heavy enough that the off-hand shots taken weren\u2019t painful with the increased charge size, although muzzle rise is significant. But, you\u2019re not going to be taking a fast follow-up with this rig.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15853\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15853\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15853\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling-400x228.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"228\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling-400x228.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling-150x85.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-rate-of-rifling.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15853\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rate of rifling on the Optima is 1 twist in 28 inches.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>No tools were required to remove the breech plug, despite a long range session and the fact this gun gets dirty, fast. All muzzleloaders run dirty, and cleaning them right after shooting is critical.<\/p>\n<p>That dirt also reinforced the importance of marking the ramrod so you know when the bullet is fully back on top of the powder. We didn\u2019t mark it because this is a test gun, and when one of them was not flush against the powder, it acted like a hangfire. The primer went off when the hammer struck, but it seemed like a second or longer before the powder ignited and the bullet exited the gun. Fouling in the barrel may convince you the bullet is all the way back, but it may not be. Scrubbings between each shot remedies the problem (more aggressive scrubbings in our case) and if you suffer a similar fate, remember to keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15804\" style=\"width: 342px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15804\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15804\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger-332x300.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"332\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger-332x300.jpg 332w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger-150x135.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger-1024x923.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger-354x320.jpg 354w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-trigger.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 332px) 100vw, 332px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15804\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trigger let-off weight is 2.5 pounds.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Where legal, the Optima V2 would be a wonderful option for primitive-weapons hunting seasons. It would take two pellets of Triple 7 to humanely drop big game, but with some range time and experimenting with different bullets and maybe changing powder, groups are bound to shrink. It is a Bergara barrel, after all.<\/p>\n<p>Is the Optima V2 at $348.95 a better self-defense choice for long haul truckers than <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"\/blog\/percussion-pistols-a-handgun-when-you-cant-buy-a-handgun\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cap-and-ball revolvers<\/a>, which offer you six fast shots and the ability to carry extra cylinders? Probably not, but if you\u2019re heading afield this year for big game and want an added challenge, it does have performance good enough to fill the freezer.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_15802\" style=\"width: 410px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15802\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-15802\" title=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail-400x257.jpg\" alt=\"CVA Optima\" width=\"400\" height=\"257\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail-400x257.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail-150x96.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail-1024x658.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-omega-handgun-rail.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-15802\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">To remove the rail, if wanted, simply back out six hex screws.<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The cargo hijacked from tractor trailers each year in the U.S. is valued at more than \u00bd billion dollars, and the encounters are often violent. Some in the industry, including a few at CVA, suspect more and more semi drivers are purchasing easy-to-load, .50-caliber muzzleloading pistols like the Optima V2 in response.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":15847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-15850","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-reviews-pistols"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. Pistol<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. 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Some in the industry, including a few at CVA, suspect more and more semi drivers are purchasing easy-to-load, .50-caliber muzzleloading pistols like the Optima V2 in response.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Gun Reviews and News | GunsAmerica.com\/Digest\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gunsamerica\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2013-03-25T02:27:29+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-13T12:38:41+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"725\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Guy Sagi\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@gunsamerica\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@gunsamerica\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Guy Sagi\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Guy Sagi\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/#\/schema\/person\/3bc661e19b51e4890b4cb08fa6e9cbc8\"},\"headline\":\"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. 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Some in the industry, including a few at CVA, suspect more and more semi drivers are purchasing easy-to-load, .50-caliber muzzleloading pistols like the Optima V2 in response.","og_url":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/","og_site_name":"Gun Reviews and News | GunsAmerica.com\/Digest","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gunsamerica","article_published_time":"2013-03-25T02:27:29+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-01-13T12:38:41+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":725,"url":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/03\/cva-optima-glamor.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Guy Sagi","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@gunsamerica","twitter_site":"@gunsamerica","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Guy Sagi","Est. reading time":"14 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/interstate-trucker-gun-cva-optima-v2-50-cal-pistol\/"},"author":{"name":"Guy Sagi","@id":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/#\/schema\/person\/3bc661e19b51e4890b4cb08fa6e9cbc8"},"headline":"Interstate Trucker Gun \u2013 CVA Optima V2 .50 Cal. 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