Modern muzzle-loader

[Doco overboard]

Hunting with muzzle loaders is a rewarding method for game taking with modern inline versions being the most popular in my area. I started years ago with traditional replicas of cap lock and flint lock designs. Over time regulations allowed the addition of optics and then extra days in the field to enhance deer management.

I purchased an inline model with optics primarily to extend visibility towards dusk when they became available and ease of maintenance post hunt. I enjoyed hunting with the rifle eventually graduating into a model that utilizes smokeless powders which eliminated the maintenance chore post hunt.

Recently at our gun club I pulled out some of the older cap lock rifles for an iron sight shoot and thoroughly enjoyed the simplicity of just a conical bullet or patched RB, a percussion cap and a brass powder measure.

They are capable of outstanding accuracy once the right load chain is developed and consistent loading methods used for patching the round ball or conical, and then seating with the right amount of powder compression without distorting the ball or bullet.

The rifle designed for smokeless is outstanding in power, range and accuracy with a carefully selected saboted pistol bullet. I found using 4759 powder and a bullet as close to bore diameter+ sabot provides the best results. Managing the fouling left from the sabot is critical but easily done with traditional cleaning methods but with reduced intervals between bore wiping than with black powder or pyrodex substitutes.

You must weigh the shot charges with smokeless vs volumetric loading with traditional propellants so there is a extra measure of prepping the charges before heading out to the field but its not too much of a hassle once you consider the additional hunting opportunities
that are permitted.