By Paul Rackley, Editor

History With a Muzzleloader

It is widely accepted that the Winchester Model 1873 “won the west.” However, long before that company introduced its iconic rifle, pioneers ventured west into the unknown carrying much simpler firearms. Those explorers used muzzleloading rifles and shotguns for both food and defense before anyone even though up the idea of a repeater.

Just like firearms, muzzleloaders have benefited from advancements in technology. Advocates now have much better guns, propellants and bullets than the lead balls and blackpowder of years ago. Some of the more advanced muzzleloaders perform like a single-shot rifle. However, folks can go old school with Hawken and Kentucky Long rifles. In fact, both antique and replica versions are available. Either way, smoke poles provide a fun way to spend time at the range. They can even expand hunting opportunities.

Choosing a Muzzleloader

With the number of available brands and styles, choosing a muzzleloader involves considering a few factors. In addition to budget, folks must ensure the sporting arm is legal for their area. Some states allow modern inline muzzleloaders with scopes, while others limit hunters to iron sights and exposed ignitions. In fact, some northwestern states have very strict laws regarding the primitive weapon seasons. As such, the choice of sporting arm depends on where a hunt happens.

When purchasing a muzzleloader, the budget must also include accessories. Most smoke poles require tools for cleaning, maintaining and even loading. These tools include breech loaders, jags, patch pullers and T-handles, along with flasks and powder measures if using loose propellant instead of preformed pellets. And while these items don’t cost that much, going cheap can cost a lot more in the long run.

After that, buying a muzzleloader comes down preference. Some people like the idea of wearing buckskin garments and taking game with a traditional flintlock. Others simply want opportunities to extend their hunting season.

Pros of Muzzleloaders

People have many reasons why they get into muzzleloaders, such as wanting to try something different. Most, however, use muzzleloaders to expand hunting opportunities, particularly in states with limited firearm seasons. There are even areas that only allow primitive weapons, such as muzzleloaders and bows. These areas usually experience less pressure, which typically means more opportunities for hunters with primitive weapons.

Even better, muzzleloaders aren’t considered firearms under federal law. This means that purchasers do not have to go through an FFL; dealers can ship these sporting arms directly through the mail to buyers, unless prohibited by state law. One of the best reasons, though, is just fun. Muzzleloaders can be a blast to shoot, taking users back in history.

Cons of Muzzleloaders

Ballistics, or more appropriately, long-range ballistics can be a factor with smoke poles. Muzzleloaders typically fire larger caliber bullets. While these bullets work well on large game, such as deer, elk, etc., at moderate distances, they are also big and slow, and quickly drop at longer distances. A .45 caliber bullet coming out of a muzzleloader at 2,000 fps drops 7 inches at 200 yards and just over 19 inches at 250 yards. And that is not even factoring in wind drift. Big bullets, those typically used in muzzleloaders, provide a lot of surface space for wind. So, a good rule of thumb is to factor 1-inch of drift for every 10 mph of crosswind at 100 yards.

Another problem with muzzleloaders is that they produce a lot of smoke when fired. This can seriously limit hunters’ ability to see hits, as well the direction of fleeing game. A little bit of wind can quickly clear the area after a shot, but smoke can hang around on calm days. Muzzleloaders also take longer to reload, so follow-up shots aren’t always a possibility. For this reason, hunters need to make sure shots count.

Smokepoles can be a lot of fun, both at the range and in the field. They also provide additional ways to shoot and hunt. However, the best reason to purchase a muzzleloader is to get back to the past. Muzzleloaders helped define American history, and were the first items protected by the 2nd Amendment.

CVA Wolf

Just because something is inexpensive, doesn’t always mean it is cheap. The CVA Wolf proves this with its excellent features and entry-level price. One of the best features of this break-action muzzleloader is its Quick-Release Breech Plug. Even after firing it multiple times, shooters can still remove the breech plug without tools. CVA designed the Wolf to accept 209 primers, however, the company produces a northwest version that uses an exposed musket cap to make it legal in certain states. Shooters can also choose between black and blue or black and stainless, as well as fiber-optic sights or an integral scope mount. In fact, CVA includes a scope for just a little bit extra. There is even an updated version that features an ambidextrous stock, reversible cocking spur and much more.  

Knight Mountaineer

While the Mountaineer might look like a centerfire rifle, it’s actually a high-end muzzleloader. Of course, Knight has long been an innovator of smoke poles. Available in .45, .50 and .52 caliber, the Mountaineer features a 27-inch, fluted, Green Mountain barrel and fully adjustable Timney Trigger. It also comes with a machined bolt, Easton Carbon Coated ramrod and fiber-optic sights; users can easily attach a scope if desired. Knight produces the Mountaineer in a variety of models, all of which allow purchasers to choose between using a 209 primer or a No. 11 musket cap.   

Traditions Hawken Woodsman

While modern smoke poles offer some awesome features, sometimes shooters want something a little more traditional—enter the Traditions Hawken Woodsman. This rifle, based off the original design from the 1800s, comes in .50 cal in both percussion and flintlock models. It features a 28-inch octagonal barrel, double-set triggers, a select hardwood stock and brass furniture. The Woodsman also comes with a hooked breech for easy barrel removal, a click-adjustable rear sight and an inlet solid brass patch box.

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