Firing Muzzleloaders

How to Load a Muzzleloader

1. Measure the correct amount of powder.

2. Pour the measured powder into the muzzle.

3. Place a patch on the muzzle and then a ball on the patch.

4. Use the small cap on the ball starter to tap the ball and patch into the muzzle.

5. Use the small ramrod on the starter to push the ball down the barrel.

6.  Always tightly grip the ramrod and use short strokes to seat the ball firmly on the powder charge. There should be no gap between the powder charge and the projectile.

Use a marked ramrod to determine if a muzzleloader is loaded or empty.

7. Prime the muzzleloader. On a percussion lock muzzleloader, attach a percussion cap to the nipple.

On a flintlock muzzleloader, prime the pan with FFFFg powder and close the frizzen.

Many muzzleloaders with hammers can be placed in a half cock position. This locks the trigger so it cannot release the hammer. Only when the hammer is pulled back to the full cock position will the trigger release the hammer when squeezed. When hunting never walk around with a muzzleloader primed and the hammer in a half cock position. Bumping the firearm or snagging the hammer could release the hammer and accidentally discharge the muzzleloader.

As with all firearms, use proper hearing and eye protection with muzzleloaders.

Cleaning

Black powder is highly corrosive. After shooting a muzzleloader, the firearm should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. Many times it is necessary to remove the nipple from percussion cap firearms and sometimes the entire lock assembly. After thoroughly cleaning, all parts should be dried and then lightly oiled to prevent rust.

There are various tips you can attach to cleaning rods and some ramrods that will help clean muzzleloaders.