I definitely wouldn't want to buy something right now that ONLY works well with Blackhorn 209. I've never seen it in a store, and IF you can find it online, it's generally very expensive + hazmat shipping. I'm not sure I would want to limit my options like that. All of the Walmarts here carry Pyrodex, and it's usually in stock, especially after muzzleloader season is over.
For hunting, the crud ring really won't affect your regular use. It's not like you're going to be loading shot after shot, without the opportunity for a quick cleaning between. I can get about three shots out of my CVA Optima before the crud ring makes it too difficult to load, but a wet swab down the barrel, and I'm good for three more. It's a little irritating when I'm plinking in the backyard, but I've never had a crud ring prevent me from taking a shot when necessary.
I think a muzzle break sounds neat, it also seems like it would make the gun harder to load. In my opinion, recoil is much less of an issue when you don't have any follow-up shots anyway. Plus it's more weight to carry around in the woods.
I also agree with the person who suggested the Optima V2. It will eat any powder you put in there, and can group shots tighter than I'm able to. I've never had a misfire, or problem of any kind either. It was my first muzzleloader, and I couldn't be happier with my choice.