There are many models of black powder rifles. The welds are susceptible to corrosion from black powder, and many of the barrels are unsafe. These barrels were formed by welding strips of steel together. If the gun has a Damascus barrel, retire it to a place of honor but do not attempt to shoot it. The lock mechanism should be checked for safety function. Examine the breech area for rust or deterioration. If you are considering using an original, you should first have it inspected by an expert. These are effective weapons, but they are generally considered too valuable to be used in competition or for hunting. If you are a real tranditionalist, you may want to buy an original. Shop around, and, if possible, seek assistance from a knowledgeable friend before purchasing your rifle. Most manufactured by established companies are well made and come with impressive guarantees. If you do not possess the requirements necessary to build a black powder rifle, a large selection of replicas is available in various styles and price ranges. Building your own rifle provides self-satisfaction and can result in a higher quality muzzleloader than can be bought readymade. The only requirements are a few basic tools, a minimum amount of woodworking skill, a little patience, and a lot of time. The most inexpensive route is one of the many muzzleloader kits available. When you decide to buy a black powder rifle, you must decide if you want a factory-built replica, build-it-yourself replica, or a more costly original. When the trigger is pulled, the hammer strikes the cap, causing the priming compound to explode, which in turn ignites the powder in the breech. The percussion cap contains the priming compound, which ignites the powder in the breech. The opening on this cone, or “nipple,” leads to the powder in the breech. Instead, a “percussion cap” is placed on a hollow cone. It requires no flint and no priming powder. In the early 18OOs, the PERCUSSION rifle was developed. When the trigger is pulled, this piece of flint strikes the hinged cover of the pan, spraying sparks into the priming powder, which ignites the powder in the breech. On this rifle, a piece of flint is clamped onto the hammer. Late in the 16th century, the FLINTLOCK came into prominence. The manner in which this powder is ignited gives the two rifles their names. Because they are most popular, this guide will focus on percussion and flintlock rifles.īoth the percussion and flintlock rifles are fired when the powder in the breech is ignited.

One can shoot muzzleloading rifles, muskets, pistols, and even shotguns. Many types of black powder weapons are commercially available. If you encounter terms in this guide with which you are not familiar, refer to the glossary at the end of the text. This publication is meant as a guide for those just starting out as black powder shooters, but it may also serve as a reference for more accomplished muzzleloader enthusiasts. Many states, including New Mexico, have established special seasons for hunters using muzzleloaders, and this has increased the popularity of the weapon. Not only are black powder weapons just plain fun to shoot, but the muzzle-loading rifle is an effective hunting weapon. The rifles that these modern mountain men use are replicas of the weapons used by the original frontiersmen. Have you ever dreamed of returning to the thrilling days of the mountain men? Or of sharing in the adventures of such wilderness heros as Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone, or Jim Bridger? Many people are attempting to experience a part of those days through black powder or muzzleloader shooting. Knight, Extension Wildlife Specialist College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences New Mexico State University

Define muzzle loading