Effective August 1, 2009, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Hunter in Indiana online course—the official hunter education course of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Loading a Muzzleloader

Loading or charging a muzzleloading firearm presents some special concerns because it requires the muzzle to be pointed upward. For rifles, position the butt on the ground between your feet. You should be facing the underside of the barrel. The muzzle should be pointed upward and away from your body. Never work directly over the muzzle. Determine if the gun is already loaded. Measure out the proper amount and type of powder using the calibrated powder measure. Center a lubricated precut patch over the muzzle. Use the longer ramrod to push the ball the rest of the way, making sure it’s seated well on the powder charge.