Are you thinking about buying a muzzleloader?
Well these top 5 reasons will make that smoke pole purchase a no brainer!
Step back in time!
What is a better chance to get to experience living history than to fire a traditional style muzzleloading rifle, shotgun or handgun? Our forefathers used those same style weapons to procure food, protect their families and win wars. The smell of a smoke cloud from your trusty charcoal burner, especially loaded up with the real deal, black powder, will take you back centuries. Trust me, there’s nothing like it!
Extend your hunting seasons.
Many states have extended hunting seasons for those who bring their approved muzzleloaders afield. Here in my home state of Ohio, you can choose traditional style rifles or the newer in-line varieties for deer in both the special muzzleloader season and the regular gun seasons. It certainly adds a certain amount of spice to chase venison afield with such an antique style weapon.
Easily change your power (and recoil) levels.
Want a hot load, add more powder (to safe levels). Are you just out plinking at cans and targets? Scale back the powder amount for less recoil and more shots from a powder can. My Traditions Hawken Rifle in the big ole’ .58 caliber will safely burn up to 130 grains of 2F black powder. My hunting load is 110 grains, while just plinking I have lowered it much farther. If you are training new shooters less recoil is a big help. Make sure you know where your projectiles land (my preferred is a patched pure lead ball) on target with all of the varying powder charges you may use.
Less un-Constitutional restrictions.
How sad I have to add this thought to the article. Some areas have strict firearm laws that may be skirted by muzzleloaders. They are generally not considered a “firearm” but check all local laws in your area before you start packing your old school cap and ball revolver.
When times get tough…
If times get real tough and the ammo supply dries up you might have to go real old school. How about cast your own projectiles and mix you own black powder? In this scenario a flintlock rifle would be a top choice for keeping a functioning gun around for any need you may have. Let’s hope we never get to that point but it’s a good plan to always be prepared for any possible future scenario.
