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Rifle/Muzzleloader hunt from a saddle

meranica

meranica

New Member
Joined
Oct 26, 2025
Messages
5
Location
Warrington, PA
Hello community,
I am a newcomer to the saddle hunting. I hunt in PA (rifle and muzzleloader) seasons on public land. I've always wanted to hunt from an elevated position, especially during the muzzleloader season when the leaves are still on trees and it's tough to see/shoot through the brush.
I would like to start my saddle adventure on a budget; I am contemplating buying XOP Edge/Mutant (XL) combo. Like many, I watched a bunch of videos and really leaning towards Edge as opposed to Invader platform as I saw reports of the metal cracking under (heavy) load.
Just wanted to say hello!
 
Jpdarby2 said:
Welcome from Texas! Shooting a muzzleloader out of the saddle is fun. However, reloading it is another story :sweatsmile:
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Welcome From New England!

Yeah I’ll second that - it’s worth practicing aiming from difference positions and reloading. None of it is particularly hard; but you really don’t want to try and figure it out with a deer in front of you.

I’d also suggest checking the classifieds on the forum for used saddles and platforms.
 
I shot my rifle out of a saddle last gun season without an issue. It's a lot easier than trying to shoot a long bow for sure.
 
Welcome to the forum.

I've taken a few deer with a firearm out of the saddle, but never one with a muzzleloader. Could be a challenge reloading lol
 
CountryRoads22 said:
Welcome to the forum.

I've taken a few deer with a firearm out of the saddle, but never one with a muzzleloader. Could be a challenge reloading lol
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It is not too hard to reload if you have platform space. Place the stock on the platform with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Preloads or pellet powder makes it easier and having it handy/nearby. Really no different than in a climber or on the ground and it is very doable.
 
mbrock said:
It is not too hard to reload if you have platform space. Place the stock on the platform with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Preloads or pellet powder makes it easier and having it handy/nearby. Really no different than in a climber or on the ground and it is very doable.
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Platform space? What’s that? Lol

IMG_2960.jpeg
 
I get that. I just move my feet where my heels are off the platform or at least one of them. Another option is the portion that is on the top post. Once again being mindful of the muzzle direction. I run a small platform but I am also only a size 9. YMMV.
 
On a ring of steps it might be a little more challenging. I have never done it, but I always picture putting the butt of the gun on top of my foot.
 
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