BenB,
As you have a mzl loader, you're familiar with BP and lead bullets. The BPCR shoots are all cartridge guns, using most anything from the 38/55s up to the 50 caliber guns. Types of rifles seen at the matches run from Trapdoor Springfields, rolling-blocks, Highwalls, Sharps, a few lever-actions and others. I started-out with a roller in 40/65 and I did ok with it. Then the 600-800 yards shoots caught my attention, so I moved-up to a 45/90 rolling-block. I like .45s
, anyway.
If you want to shoot targets and hunt with the same gun I would look into a rolling-block rifle. They're operation is quite simple, and they come in several different calibers. But you need to look at them all. You might look in the Cabela's catalogs to get some ideas about gun prices and types.. Dixie Gun Works also sells BPC rifles ready to shoot. There are some custom gun-makers out there that make some really fine pieces and they charge accordingly.
Then after you choose a rifle, you will need some reloading tools to get it to shoot those small groups you expect from such a weapon
. As you have probally grasped by now, it takes a certain level of dedication to the sport, as in any sport. Good luck,