CVA Endura Pro Review

INTRO/METHOD

I remember several years ago, my husband’s brother and I combined our limited resources to buy my husband a Christmas gift he had always wanted – a CVA muzzleloader (see our CVA Accura Review). CVA has been well-known for their muzzleloaders since the company was established in 1971. And, when my husband started doing his research, the CVA Wolf was the one he couldn’t stop looking at. Thankfully, my husband’s brother somehow knew that. On Christmas morning, when my husband opened that black and yellow box, you would have thought he won the lottery or found a golden ticket. You should have seen the shock and sheer excitement on his face. As a matter of fact, I don’t know if I’ve given him a gift since then that he’s been so excited about. That CVA wolf served him very well. So much so that a few years later, when I decided to start hunting, he returned the favor and got a CVA Wolf for me for Christmas. Since then, we have tested several other CVA muzzleloaders and have taken a few deer with them as well. So, when the all-new CVA Endura series was announced, we jumped at the chance to grab one, take it to the range, and see what it could do.

Things have definitely evolved in the muzzleloader world since our first purchase, which was probably around 20 years ago. And, the Endura series may just be the most advanced muzzleloader CVA has brought to market yet. Let’s see why.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The CVA Endura Series features what may be the most innovative muzzleloaders available, thanks to the powder options it offers. We will discuss that further in a minute.

The series consists of two options: the CVA Endura Long-Range Hunter (LRH) and the Endura Pro. The Endura Pro is the lighter of the two at just under nine pounds, making it the option for the hunter looking to be more mobile. The 10.25-pound (without a scope) LRH is heavier than most people want to carry very far into the woods, plains, or mountains, but it is ideal for increased accuracy at even longer distances.

In this article, I will highlight a few differences between the two, but we will primarily focus on the Endura Pro (since that’s the one we have).

KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Multiple Powder Options

When we shot that first CVA Wolf almost twenty years ago, the standard load for us was a couple of Pyrodex pellets and a saboted bullet. In recent years, CVA has made adjustments to its rifles and breech plugs, enabling the use of Blackhorn 209, a high-performance muzzleloader powder.

Blackhorn 209 is typically weighed so loads are exact. It tends to result in higher-velocity shots, which also improve accuracy. And the powder’s makeup is significantly cleaner. I remember after a couple of shots with the pellets, getting that third or fourth bullet down the barrel was a struggle because of the buildup. Blackhorn 209 helps solve that problem.

Blackhorn 209 is still a great powder option for these new muzzleloaders, but CVA has gone to the next level with the Endura Series. The Endura LRH and Endura Pro are CVA’s only muzzleloaders that are also compatible with modern smokeless rifle powders.

Having additional powder options is beneficial because Blackhorn 209 has been harder to find recently, and its price has increased significantly. CVA is very adamant, though, that you should only use IMR 4198 or Vhitavouri N120 if you choose that option. CVA is also very clear about the specific grain load they recommend for safety and optimal performance, as well as the use of the Powerbelt 285gr ELR bullets.

Desert Camo Grayboe Eagle Pro Stock

Grayboe is another company with an excellent reputation, and I can see why with the Endura Pro’s Desert Camo Eagle Pro Stock. The stock’s look is nice, but I really like its textured feel.

The semi-rough texture of the stock is not so much that it would be uncomfortable to hold without gloves. However, it is rough enough that maintaining a solid grip on the rifle, even in wet conditions, should not be a problem.

The LRH comes with a Long-Range stock, which is more rigid and heavier, with a look similar to that of the Bergara B14 HMR.

A few other features of the Grayboe stock stand out to me that I want to mention separately.

Limbsaver Recoil Pad

Here we are again with another contributing company that has a reputation for producing great products. Limbsaver is renowned for some of the best recoil pads in the industry. I have added aftermarket Limbsaver pads to other guns of mine because they work so well.

This one-inch recoil pad demonstrates high viscoelasticity. Viscous because it has enough shock absorption to dampen felt recoil in the shoulder when shooting. Elastic because the Limbsaver pad quickly and easily returns to its original shape.

We will talk more about recoil in a minute, but as a recoil-averse shooter, I can tell you that after 11 shots, my shoulder wasn’t sore at all.

Sling Mounts

The Endura Pro features two swivel studs on the front of the stock, allowing for the simultaneous use of a bipod and a sling. On the bottom of the rear of the stock is a QD mount. The stock also features QD cup mounts on both sides of the front and rear, allowing you to use that style of sling as well.

Adjustable Length of Pull (LOP)

For me, an adjustable LOP is a tremendous asset. I am 5’4”, and I have a very short LOP. Most standard rifles with no available adjustment aren’t very comfortable for me. I always seem to need the scope mounted as far back on the rail as possible, so I don’t have to crane my neck.

The Endura Pro comes out of the box with three ¼” spacers installed, which set the LOP at approximately 13 ½”. If you are a taller person with longer arms and need a longer LOP, the two additional included spacers can get you as much as 14”. If you are like me and prefer to have the stock a little shorter, the three spacers can be removed to get closer to 12 ¾”. We removed two of the spacers to achieve a good, balanced fit for my husband and me.

Having the ability to adjust this space is also nice if you know you will be hunting in cold conditions. If you plan to wear several layers, a shorter LOP may be better.

Adjustable Cheek Comb

Another of my favorite features that helps ensure the Endura Pro fits any shooter is the adjustable cheek comb. On most rifles, I have to settle for a chin weld rather than a cheek weld because I can’t get a complete sight picture through the scope otherwise.

The one inch of vertical adjustability makes it much easier to find and set the height where the shooter can get a solid cheek weld and see clearly through the scope. The ability to position this to an ideal point also allows for greater repeatability when shooting, which should improve accuracy.

The Endura Pro features a quick-adjustment knob. When in place, simply turning the knob allows rapid, smooth height adjustments of the cheek comb. If you are a left-handed shooter or don’t plan to adjust the height once you have achieved your desired position, the muzzleloader also comes with a flush-mounted screw that can be loosened and tightened with a hex wrench. This option improves aesthetics and keeps you from knocking the knob against everything.

Semi-Vertical Grip

The Endura Pro features a 60-degree M4-style grip. To me, this is a much more natural holding and resting position for the wrist than a traditional “hunter-style” stock. I find the Endura Pro’s grip to be relatively comfortable, and I only have to stretch slightly to reach the trigger. I am always a bigger fan of a fully vertical grip, though. With my small hands, a vertical grip allows me to relax entirely and still easily reach the trigger. Maybe that’s an upgrade CVA could make for future versions.

Externally Adjustable Trigger Tech Trigger

Yet again, CVA brought in a heavy-hitter for the Endura Pro with the Trigger Tech trigger. Out of the box, we measured the trigger pull at just under three pounds. Without separating anything from the stock, the trigger can be adjusted externally from two to four pounds with a small wrench.

After taking it to the range, I can say that, like most Trigger Tech triggers, it’s very smooth. It doesn’t have a lot of travel, and it breaks easily. I do feel like the out-of-the-box weight is a little heavier than I like so we will be adjusting the trigger weight down somewhat. I’m hoping that changing the trigger weight will further improve my trigger squeeze and accuracy.

VariFlame Adapters and Action

The Endura Series is designed for VariFlame adapters, so standard large rifle primers can be used. Thankfully, they ship the rifles with 10 adapters and the tools needed to load and unload them. It also comes with a magnetic tool to prevent dropping the adapters.

One great feature of the Endura muzzleloaders, however, is that the large ejection port eliminates the need for a magnetic tool. This larger space makes loading/unloading the VariFlame adapters easy enough that you can do it with your fingers. Furthermore, the bolt face is magnetic, ensuring the adapter stays in place where you put it. You can also set the VariFlame adapter into the breech plug if you prefer.

Tungsten-Lined Breech Plug

Additionally, the tungsten lining of the breech plug is designed to handle the higher charges from the Blackhorn 209 or modern smokeless powders and large rifle primers. Not only should it withstand those charges, but cleaning should be much easier as well.

Bergara Barrel

If you know Bergara, you know they’re known for impressive barrels. Both the Endura Pro and Endura LRH feature 26-inch nitride and tungsten cerakoted Bergara barrels. These barrels are also designed to withstand the higher charges used, and the coating enhances durability and corrosion resistance.

The barrel is drilled and tapped for a rail to mount a scope, and it also offers the option for open sights if your state doesn’t allow scopes. It is also fluted to reduce weight somewhat and improve heat dissipation. And it looks cool. Additionally, I particularly like that the barrel is threaded. I am not a huge fan of recoil, so I appreciate the option to add a muzzle brake.

And it just so happens that CVA has developed a new single-port muzzlebrake that makes cleaning the rifle easier as well. As I mentioned, I’m not a fan of recoil, so I didn’t shoot it without the brake. The .45 caliber muzzleloader still has a fair bit of recoil, but with the brake and recoil pad, it’s very tolerable. I never found myself flinching or shying away from the recoil.

Comes with Accessories

In addition to all of the features we’ve mentioned, these CVA muzzleloaders come with several needed accessories, including a field kit bag, powder funnel, cleaning brush, brass cleaning jag, brass loading tip, range rod, a lightweight collapsible field ramrod, and a case to attach your ramrod to your pack easily. Finally, they ship these rifles with 15 285-grain Powerbelt ELR bullets, which is a really nice added touch.

CVA Endura Pro – SPECS

WHY WOULD YOU BUY?

The primary reason CVA incorporated these features into their muzzleloaders is to enhance accuracy at all distances, including long-range shots.

Our first trip to the range with the CVA Endura Pro did not disappoint.

After making adjustments, our first group at 100 yards was 1.41 MOA. A few more adjustments were made, and with the next 3-shot group, we were able to achieve a .52 MOA group. I’d say that’s not too bad for a muzzleloader, especially since those last three shots were numbers seven, eight, and nine – the barrel isn’t even broken in well yet.

The other reason for this new muzzleloader design is to increase powder availability. Blackhorn 209 is an excellent propellant, but it’s nice to have different options should Blackhorn become challenging to find again. We plan to shoot our next test with the Vhitavouri N120, so we’ll see how that goes. Additionally, the VariFlame adapters significantly expand primer options.

Combine those pieces with the fact that the Endura Pro boasts the quality of CVA muzzleloaders, Bergara Barrels, Grayboe stocks, Limbsaver Recoil pads, Trigger Tech triggers, and VariFlame adapters, and you’ve got a winning combination. There are a few cons, though.

PROS

• Multiple powder options: Blackhorn 209, IMR 4198, and Vhitavouri N120
• Works with VariFlame adapters so large rifle primers can be used
• Adjustable LOP
• Adjustable cheek comb
• Sling swivels and QD mounts
• Large Limbsaver Recoil pad
• The large ejection port allows users to load and unload the VariFlame adapter with ease using their fingers.
• Magnetic bolt face keeps VariFlame adapter in place
• Nitride-treated and cerakoted Bergara barrel improves durability and corrosion resistance.
• Threaded barrel for using a muzzle brake
• Externally adjustable Trigger Tech trigger
• VariFlame adapter storage on the bottom of the stock
• Comes with a range rod and a collapsible lightweight field rod
• Comes with 15 PowerBelt ELR bullets

CONS

• These muzzleloaders are not cheap. With an MSRP of $2,100, the Endura Pro is one of the pricier ones on the market.
• Although the semi-vertical grip is more comfortable than a standard hunter-style stock, I would prefer a fully vertical grip for even greater comfort.
• To load the Endura Pro properly, you need an accurate powder scale.
• The only recommended bullet is the Powerbelt ELR.
• Some states may still not allow .45 caliber and/or recommended powders for muzzleloader hunting.

Where would you buy?

If you found this review helpful and plan to purchase one.  You can purchase the CVA Endura Pro competitively priced at Scheel’s – if you use that link, we will get a small commission so we can make more articles like this.

Sighting In

FINAL THOUGHTS

With the Endura Pro, CVA has made some worthwhile upgrades to make hunting with a muzzleloader even more fun. I love the adjustable length of pull and cheek comb. The extra-large ejection port makes loading and unloading a breeze. Plus, the new design allows for the use of multiple powders as well as the ability to use large rifle primers with the VariFlame adapters, which removes several barriers to entry for muzzleloader shooting and hunting.

Overall, we like the design and upgrades of the CVA Endura Pro. Our first range test also netted some impressive results that we are hoping translate easily into deadly accuracy once we get to the hunting woods. For our next steps, we’ll make sure we’re zeroed in, get plenty of loads weighed and ready, and get a plan for opening day of muzzleloader season, which is right around the corner.