New Traditions Firearms Pro Series Features and Benefits

Traditions Performance Firearms has carved a niche in the shooting and hunting community since its inception in 1982. Under the leadership of Tom Hall, the company has consistently innovated to improve muzzleloader and centerfire rifle technologies. With the launch of the Pro Series in 2024, Traditions has raised the bar for performance and adaptability in firearms, offering three standout models: the Pursuit XT, NitroFire and Outfitter G3. Each model integrates features to enhance shooter experience, comfort and accuracy.

The Pro models offer adjustability and reduced recoil for downrange accuracy. This model introduces several enhancements that are designed to improve shooting accuracy and user comfort:

  1. Adjustable Length of Pull: The Pursuit XT Pro includes ¼-inch spacers that allow the shooter to customize the length of pull, ensuring a perfect fit for various body sizes and shooting styles.
  2. Adjustable Cheekpiece: This feature enables the user to adjust the cheekpiece by turning a screw on the side of the buttstock. This flexibility helps achieve optimal sight alignment and comfort, which is particularly beneficial for long shooting sessions.
  3. Threaded Barrel: Including a threaded barrel allows for the attachment of a muzzle brake, significantly reducing recoil. This enhancement leads to better control during shooting, which is especially useful for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.

Pursuit XT Pro

The Pursuit XT Pro is a testament to Traditions’ commitment to combining tradition with modern innovation. The Pursuit XT Pro is built with a 26-inch Chromoly steel barrel. It features a 1:24-inch VAPR twist, which enhances bullet stabilization and accuracy. The improved design means this muzzleloader can effectively engage targets at distances exceeding 200 yards.

Equipped with the Elite XT trigger system and a Dual Safety System, the Pursuit XT Pro emphasizes safety and reliability. The rebounding hammer and manual cross-block trigger safety further enhance the user experience by minimizing accidental discharges.

In addition, the model is finished with a Cerakote coating, which increases durability and resistance to the elements. This combination of features makes the Pursuit XT Pro user-friendly and dependable for any hunting scenario.

Why did Traditions choose the Pursuit XT for addition to the Pro Series? Two long-standing models remain popular amongst consumers in North America: the Pursuit and Buckstalker. The Pursuit has undergone several model changes to upgrade technologies. It continues to have proven longevity in the market and offers value and performance. The Pursuit XT standard model offers features and upgrades like the Elite XT trigger system, rebounding hammer, and manual cross-block trigger safety. These upgrades and standard features, like a 26-inch Chromoly steel barrel, Dual Safety System, and Accelerator Breech Plug Speed Load System, make the front stuffer perfect for accuracy beyond 200 yards. Being a consumer favorite made it an easy choice for the Pro Series.

NitroFire: Innovation at Its Best

The NitroFire represents a collaborative effort between Traditions, Federal Premium, and Hodgdon Powders, bringing groundbreaking technology to muzzleloader shooting:

  1. FireStick Technology: The NitroFire uses a polymer-encapsulated propellant charge known as the FireStick, eliminating the need for a traditional breech plug. This advancement streamlines loading and reduces the risk of misfires. The FireSticks have factory-loaded consistent charges to ensure repeatable velocity and accuracy. The polymer case is weatherproof and ensures moisture never finds the powder.
  2. Triple Eight Propellant: Developed specifically for the NitroFire, this new blackpowder substitute ignites quickly and burns cleanly, minimizing fouling and simplifying maintenance.
Safety and Accuracy

The NitroFire design inherently enhances safety; users cannot double charge the firearm, as the FireStick is secured to allow easy inspection of the chamber. This feature adds peace of mind, particularly for novice shooters.

Photo courtesy of Brad Fenson.

Accuracy is another standout benefit. With a 26-inch ultralight Chromoly steel fluted barrel and 1:24-inch VAPR twist rifling, the NitroFire can achieve impressive groupings at 100 yards. Testing has shown groups as tight as .375 inches, highlighting its capabilities in the field. Improved accuracy and consistency.

It is important to understand the quality, consistency, and accuracy of the NitroFire and how that can be extended with the Pro features. The new technologies in the FireStick, Triple Eight propellant, and the Spanish-made barrel with features to accommodate a new propellant system improved accuracy, use, safety, and maintenance have never been seen before.

Accuracy tests were performed with a Federal Premium 100-grain FireStick and a Traditions Smackdown Carnivore 250-grain bullet. A three-shot group was generated, with each chronographed for speed. The results were impressive. Three groups of three shots at 100 yards produced the smallest group of .375 inches, and the biggest group was just over 1 inch.

Following industry standards, a chronograph was set up 10 feet from the barrel to record the velocity of five shots with the Carnivore bullets. The ignition source was Federal Premium Muzzleloader 209 primers. The maximum velocity was 1,997 fps, and the minimum was 1,953 fps. The mean velocity was 1,973 fps, and the variance was 44 fps. The NitroFire and FireStick system exceeded the acceptable industry tolerance of 75 fps variance. It is important to note that the velocities are in the same range as other propellants, like Pyrodex, Blackhorn 209, and Triple Seven. The NitroFire system maintains muzzleloader standards with blackpowder substitutes.

Furthermore, the NitroFire allows for convenient unloading at the end of a shooting session. The user can safely remove the FireStick and reload without concern for moisture or failed ignition, making it a practical choice for all-day hunting adventures.

The in-depth research and development that went into new designs offer many advantages. The NitroFire still loads the bullet down the barrel and sits on a shelf. The FireStick, with propellant and primer, sits directly below the bullet with the break-action of the firearm closed. The FireStick replaces the need for a breech plug.

The NitroFire permanently changed how many people looked at the modern in-line muzzleloader. When Traditions created the Pro Series of firearms to offer hunters and shooters components and upgrades to increase accuracy, consistency, and user enjoyment, the NitroFire was at the front of the line.

Outfitter G3: Versatility and Adaptability

The Outfitter G3 is the third iteration in a series known for its adaptability and robust performance. Traditions has fine-tuned the Outfitter line, incorporating user feedback and technological advancements to create a firearm that excels in a variety of hunting situations:

  1. Caliber Options: The Outfitter G3 offers an array of calibers, including .357 MAG, .35 Whelen, .44 MAG, .45-70, .35 Rem, 300 AAC Blackout, 450 Bushmaster, and 350 Legend as heavy hitters. Popular calibers are available, but anyone hunting rough country, heavy bush, or areas requiring a straight-walled cartridge will appreciate the versatility and performance. This versatility makes it suitable for various hunting conditions, from big game in dense woods to open-range shooting.
  2. Lightweight and Portable: Weighing in at a manageable size, the Outfitter G3 is designed for easy handling. Its ported barrel mitigates recoil, allowing shooters to maintain control and comfort during firing.
Enhanced Features

The Outfitter G3 is equipped with the Elite XT trigger system, ensuring a clean and responsive trigger pull. The design allows the action to be broken open with the safety engaged, which enhances safety during loading and unloading.

Photo courtesy of Brad Fenson.

One innovative aspect of the Outfitter G3 is its quick-detachable forend. This feature allows the user to easily remove the forend for transport and storage, facilitating a compact and user-friendly design. The ability to disassemble the rifle quickly means it can be packed conveniently for field use.

The Outfitter G3 also includes a muzzle brake designed to reduce recoil further. This feature is particularly beneficial for younger or less experienced shooters who may find traditional rifles challenging to manage.

If you look at the overall weight of your firearm or the ability to break it down, the Outfitter G3 offers advantages. The quick detachable forearm on the Outfitter G3 can be deliberately removed from the barrel, and some G3 models have a new QD forend that allows removal with the push of a button. The forend does not come off without intent, but when off, allows the action to be opened by pulling back on the release lever, rotating the barrel forward, and then sliding it back and off the receiver. The receiver, barrel, and forend can be easily packed for quick retrieval and reassembly.

A New Era in Firearms

Traditions Firearms has set a new standard with the Pro Series, showcasing three exceptional models that cater to the evolving needs of shooters and hunters. The Pursuit XT Pro offers unparalleled comfort and customization. At the same time, the NitroFire revolutionizes the muzzleloader experience with its innovative design and technology. Finally, the Outfitter G3 stands out for its versatility, making it an excellent choice for various hunting scenarios.

By integrating advanced features and focusing on user experience, Traditions has crafted firearms that enhance accuracy, safety, and enjoyment in shooting sports. As the Pro Series continues to make waves in the industry, it is evident that Traditions remains committed to innovation and quality, solidifying its place as a leader in the world of firearms. For more information on the Pro Series and its offerings, visit www.traditionsfirearms.com.

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