Basic Muzzleloader Safety and Skills

Cleaning a Muzzleloader

Firing a muzzleloader leaves a corrosive residue inside the barrel that causes pitting and reduces accuracy. The buildup of residue, called fouling, also will make loading difficult.

To avoid fouling, swab the barrel with a moist patch after each shot. The patches or cleaning rags used to wipe the barrel must be the correct size and should be made of cotton or approved synthetic materials. Follow the recommendations of retailers who sell muzzleloaders or those who regularly use muzzleloaders.

Thoroughly clean a muzzleloader after each shooting session. If left overnight, black powder and black powder substitute residue can damage all metal parts, including scopes.

Clean the gun's lock periodically. Normally it's held in place by one or two bolts. Once the lock has been removed, scrub both sides with an old toothbrush and hot water. Make sure the entire lock is completely dry, and then lightly oil and replace it.

Basic Muzzleloader Safety

Muzzleloaders take significantly more knowledge to operate than modern firearms. They also present greater risks. Several rules must be followed to ensure safe operation.

• Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Do not lean over, stand in front of, or blow down the muzzle.
• Use only black powder or a safe substitute in a muzzleloading firearm.
• Wait until you're ready to fire before you prime or cap a muzzleloader.
• When encountering obstacles in the field, uncap or remove priming powder.
• Always wear shooting glasses and ear protection when shooting a muzzleloader; a long-sleeved shirt is also advisable.
• Never smoke while shooting or loading or when near a powder horn or flask.
• Load a muzzleloader directly from a calibrated powder measure—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.
• Load only one charge at a time.
• Unload a muzzleloader before bringing it into your home, camp, or vehicle.
• Stay with your charged muzzleloader at all times.