If you already hunt with a bow, rifle or shotgun, why should you consider taking on a new “means of harvest” like a muzzleloader? There are some pros — they are very accurate, licenses are easy to come by, there is typically MUCH less competition in the field during most muzzleloader seasons, they have better range than a shotgun or archery equipment, and the recoil isn’t as bad as it is for a shotgun. Or, maybe you just want to experience what it was like for Daniel Boone, all are good reasons.
To begin, you’ll want to select a type of muzzleloader. Current options are nothing short of exceptional. Your main decision will be whether you want convenience or performance. There are three basic types: flintlock, caplock (known as sidelock), or inline. Flintlock muzzleloaders look and function much like those used in the 1800s. A caplock has the cap held by a nipple on the side of the gun barrel. With inline muzzleloaders, the cap is located directly behind the charge of powder. Inline models are the most popular these days.
You’ll also have to decide upon caliber. The caliber you’ll need should be determined by the species of game you’re hunting. If you’re using this for whitetails and other big game, you really can’t go wrong with a .50 caliber. Caliber is the diameter of the bore measured in hundredths of an inch and they are available all the way down to .22 caliber. For big game, I’d want the “biggest dog on the block.”
You need the accessories to go with these guns — cleaning tools, a ramrod, cappers and a powder flask. Also, you’ll want a device called a “ball starter” or a “short starter.” It will attach to the end of the ramrod to help get your lead ball started and seated well. Be consistent with your black powder. Once you find a powder you like, make sure to always use the same quantity of the same powder. Most major manufacturers will have kits for beginners that have everything to get you on your way shooting.
It’s nice to learn from someone experienced because it’s a bit different than shooting a rifle or shotgun. Sometimes you’ll notice a delay when you pull the trigger, known as a “hang fire.” You must also need to know how to safely handle a misfire situation. While steadiness and follow through are important when shooting a rifle or shotgun, it’s possibly more vital with a muzzleloader. You want to squeeze the trigger and continue to hold steady.
In my home state of Minnesota, muzzleloader season is late November into December so the whitetails are usually on a feeding pattern — trying to recoup some of the fat and energy they expended during the main rut. Food sources like brassicas or corn are good bets this time of the year. While they’re back on a feeding pattern, some does may not have been successfully bred during the main rut and will come into heat again. So it’s possible to “light a fire” in your hunting area using scent. One of my favorite tactics is to use either Special Golden Estrus or Buck-Fire Raging Estrus. They can be used on a scent trail, or simply place out a lure-soaked wick crosswind from your position.
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