Unloading or Firing a Muzzleloader

Unloading a Muzzleloader

The easiest way to unload a muzzleloader is by discharging it into a suitable backstop. Do not fire into the air or into the ground at your feet in case the projectile ricochets.

Additional unloading methods include using a traditional ball puller, using a CO2 ball discharger, or removing the bolt on a modern in-line gun and pushing the load out the breech end.

When a muzzleloader is unloaded, place your ramrod or loading rod in the barrel before leaning the firearm against a good rest—this will prevent debris from falling down the barrel and blocking the touchhole.

Firing a Muzzleloader

Percussion Lock Muzzleloader: When you’re ready to fire the muzzleloader safely, place the percussion cap on the nipple. Be sure that your surroundings and your backstop are safe. Then cock your firearm, aim, and fire.

Flintlock Muzzleloader: When priming a flintlock, pull the hammer to a half-cock position and open the priming pan cover. Check your flint, making sure the setting is tight and properly adjusted. Insert a vent pick or fine wire into the barrel’s touchhole to make sure the opening is clear. With your priming horn, fill the pan about three-fourths full of FFFFg powder. Close the frizzen and pull the hammer to full cock when you’re ready to fire the shot safely.

After firing, place the hammer in the half-cock position and swab the barrel to remove sparks that might be inside.

Hang Fire Situations

Sometimes a muzzleloader will not fire immediately when the trigger is pulled. This is known as “hang fire” and requires great caution because the gun might fire some time after the cap or flint created the initial sparks.

• Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, preferably downrange, for a minimum of one minute.
• Don’t take it anywhere that it could injure someone or damage property if it fires.
• If a muzzleloader doesn’t fire properly, get help from an experienced shooter to unload it using a ball discharger.