Chapter 7: Advanced Hunting Techniques
Basic Muzzleloader Skills (continued)

Unloading a Muzzleloader

There are three basic methods for unloading a muzzleloader when you are finished hunting for the day:

Discharging

• Point the muzzleloader at a suitable backstop.
• Make sure that no one is in front of your position.
• Discharge into the backstop.

CO2 Discharger This is the safest method.

• Safest method.
• Follow the manufacturer's directions.
• Place on the nipple or in the flash hole.
• Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• Discharge the bullet and powder.

Un-Priming (most dangerous and recommended only if absolutely necessary)

• Remove the cap from the nipple or powder from the pan.
• Cover the flash hole.
• Use a bullet puller to remove the bullet and pour out the powder.

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