Muzzleloader safety

[Dragsmack]

This is my first year hunting with a muzzleloader and I have always unloaded my guns before climbing a tree but I was wondering if it is safe to just remove the 209 primer? I have been using powerbelts and pelletized powder.

 

[redsquirrel]

Yes, a muzzleloader is considered unloaded without the primer or the cap (at least in my state). My muzzleloader gets loaded with a bullet a powder the night before the season and stays that way the entire season. When I get up in the tree I place my primer in and then remove it at the end of the hunt.

 

[zer0]

correct, removing the primer will render the firing cycle useless. Simply install the primer when you are ready to start killing.

 

[donnieballgame]

What muzzleloaders are you guys using? I have an old Hawkens flint and steal and would like a "Modern" one someday!

 

[zer0]

Optima .50 gifted from my Pops, to take on an elk hunt with my Father in law. Super sweet and thoughtful gift!

 

[Bigterp]

In md our regs read “ muzzloader is considered unloaded w/ 209 primer or percussion cap removed” I put one in as I’m walking away from the truck just in case & stick primer in my chest pocket before I climb up. Then replace at hunting height.

 

[zer0]

Although removing the primer is your safest alternative, it's also the safest alternative for any deer creeping by on your ascent. Thus totally eliminating your option of taking the famed One Handed Ghetto Gank.

 

[Bigterp]

Although removing the primer is your safest alternative, it's also the safest alternative for any deer creeping by on your ascent. Thus totally eliminating your option of taking the famed One Handed Ghetto Gank.

I do have a workaround for that. My pull-up strap is attached to my sling pack. I had a doe slip in late December last year while setting my 4th stick , I pulled my t/c up & shot her at about 40 yds. I nearly pulled off the same thing w/ a doe a few years ago w/ my bow.

 

[CZMark]

What muzzleloaders are you guys using? I have an old Hawkens flint and steal and would like a "Modern" one someday!

Most state laws consider a flintlock to be unloaded if the priming pan is empty. It's a good practice to also use a hammer stall, as an unprimed flintlock can fire just from the sparks generated by the flint scraping on the frizzen. Please note, I said "can fire", not absolutely will fire.

 

[Apex7]

In PA a flintlock is considered unloaded if there is no powder in the pan . I unload the powder uncock the gun and open the frizzen . I haven't hunted with mine in years but that's what I use to do.

 

[sojourner]

What muzzleloaders are you guys using? I have an old Hawkens flint and steal and would like a "Modern" one someday!

If you want single shot centerfile or better rifle accuracy, the major manufacturers are good. I have an Accura V2, a Nikon scope, Barnes bullets, and Blackhorn 209.


If you use Barnes bullets, read from link below and choose your sabot.

http://www.barnesbullets.com/muzzleloader-tips-tricks/

If inline, I highly recommend Blackhorn 209. I can leave a bullet I loaded in Nov. until the next year and shoot it out that next November without issue. I know, not good for my effectiveness in MZ season. But Blackhorn 209 is great!

My last sight in, before making my final adjustments at 100 yards with my Accura V2, off a rest.

 

[LiverEatingJoe]

I hunt with an old-school patch and ball Hawken's cap lock.

Do you guys hunt from your saddle with your muzzlloader?!? Anyone have a tutorial/tips on that?