The T/C Hawken is about the size of the Lyman Trade Rifle. Of all the "hawken clones", IMHO, the best is the Lyman Great Plains. Most accurate build of a real hawken. The T/C Hawken is really a remake of a Trade Rifle that somewhat resembles the hawken pattern.
Real Hawkens were usually 2-key and had all iron hardware, usually with no patchbox on all but the presentation guns which had elaborate engravings on them. The T/C is actually quite short in comparison, is only 1 key, and is completely fitted in brass with a patchbox.
the T/C is also varnished, where the Lyman trade is as well made, costs about 1/3 less, and has an oiled walnut stock. I think the lyman is a better buy.
the Deerstalker is identical to the Lyman Trade Rifle except that it is a couple inches shorter, has a rubber buttpad, iron instead of brass fittings, and has modern rifle type sights. For the small difference in length, I would recommend getting a used T/C or a new Lyman Trade rifle instead. Resale will be better, you'll get more velocity, and the T/C and Lyman trade also come with adjustable sights in addition to the vertical notch sight so you can make them as adjustable as the deerstalker.
True, the Deerstlker comes with a composite ramrod and has a rubber pad, but the recoil isn;t harsh on these at all, and frankly, if i wanted all the newer do-dads on my muzzle stuffer, I'd get an inline. If getting a sidelock, my advice is to consider one of the more traditional models I listed above
Any youngster over 14 or so should have no problem with a T/C or a Lyman Trade.
Also, the Deerstalked has a faster twist than the T/C or the Lyman Trade and Great Plains guns (except for the Great Plains Hunter) and is more suited to Sabots. I prefer patched roundball, but everyone has their own preference so you can factor that in. The Deerstalker IS a well made and good working gun that likely won't let you down.
