This is my first year with a muzzleloader and I am excited for the last week of the season. I will also take part in the holiday season if I have a tag left. With that said, I do not think the time of year will mean that some nice bucks who have already shed will be taken any easier than late bow/muzz. Mature Bucks do not get that much easier to kill just because its 10-15 days later than normal. If that were the case sign me up cause a lot of bucks will still be carrying. It is a good time of year to pattern a big one if you scout