Charging and Firing the Muzzleloader

1. Perform the steps described in Making Sure the Muzzleloader Is Empty.
2. Point the firearm in a safe direction.
3. At the loading station, use a ramrod, a cleaning jag (tip), and a clean patch moistened with isopropyl alcohol to make sure the firearm is dry and free of oil. Also do the following.
   • On a Flintlock Firearm:
     • Put the hammer in the half-cock position, and then clean the frizzen and flint.
     • Use a vent pick or pipe cleaner to make sure the touch hole is clear of obstructions.
   • On a Percussion Lock Firearm:
     • Use a nipple pick to check the nipple for obstructions.
     • Go to the firing station, and point the firearm downrange. Place a cap on the nipple, and bring the hammer to full cock.
     • Aim downrange at a blade of grass or weed about 8" to 12" away from the muzzle, take the safety off, and fire the unloaded firearm. Movement in the grass indicates that the flash hole is clear.
     • Repeat the process as necessary to remove all excess moisture and make sure the flash hole is clear.
     • Place the hammer in the half-cock position, put the safety on if you have one, and return to the loading station.
   • On an In-Line Firearm:
     • Go to the firing station, point the firearm downrange, pull the hammer assembly back until it locks into the firing position, and place a cap on the nipple or prime the pan.
     • Aim downrange at a blade of grass or weed about 8" to 12" away from the muzzle, take the safety off, and fire the unloaded firearm. Movement in the grass indicates that the flash hole is clear.
     • Repeat the process as necessary to remove all excess moisture and make sure the flash hole is clear.
     • Place the hammer in the half-cock position, put the safety on if you have one, and return to the loading station.
4. Assume the loading position.
   • Place the butt of the muzzleloader on the ground with the barrel resting in a notched block and leaning away from you.
   • When a notched block is unavailable, position the forestock of the firearm between your knees with the underside of the barrel facing you and the muzzle pointing away from your face and body.
5. Measure out the proper amount and type of powder using the calibrated powder measure. Replace the powder horn’s cap, and swing the horn to the other side of your body. Pour the powder into the barrel from the measure. Tap the barrel to make sure all powder falls to the breech end. Do not load from a horn, flask, or other container—a loose spark or glowing ember in the barrel can cause the powder to explode.
6. Place the projectile into the end of the muzzle.
   • For a round ball, center a lubricated precut patch over the muzzle. You can lubricate the patch using a manufactured lubricant or using saliva by placing it in your mouth. Lay the ball on the patch with the sprew or flat side up, if the ball comes with this feature.
   • For a conical bullet, follow the powder manufacturer’s recommendations.