My favorite sidelock? Well, have to say there are two. The first is a TC Renegade built from a "kit" about 1984-1985. I was finding hunting with modern rifles didn't have enough challenge, and resolved to make the hunt harder, as in having to get closer. At the time I was very involved in NRA and CMP Highpower Rifle competition, in the Service Rifle class. Became a Distinguished Rifleman, several times in the President's Hundred at Camp Perry. The Renegade was assembled and finished as if I were building a competition M1 or M1A: metal parts were parkerized, barrel, lock, etc. were epoxy bedded, and the wood was finished with several coats of polyurethane boat deck varnish. A GI leather sling was fitted. I hunt deer and elk with this rifle, using home cast 54 caliber Lee Improved Minie bullets.
The other favorite rifle is a beautiful 40 caliber left hand flintlock by Jack Patterson from Upstate New York. It is a dainty thing, long and slim, with simple, tasteful carving, nothing ostentatious. There are some silver wire inlays accenting the lines of comb, cheekpiece and wooden patchbox. With it I have done well at the Colorado Squirrel Rifle Championship sponsored by the Buckhorn Skinners club at their range west of Loveland. My favorite match of the year. But that's not the most fun I have with this rifle. I have several adventures each Fall and Winter taking this rifle out to hunt cottontails. This demands real skill and patience, my heart rate gets at least as high as when deer hunting.
The Squirrel Rifle event was postponed this year, from late April to Labor Day weekend. Go to Colorado State Muzzle Loading Association on the 'net for details. Will be a grand gathering.