Many US states are offering more hunting opportinities through special muzzleloader tags and seasons. For the hunter, a traditional muzzleloader adds to the challenge and romanticism of the hunt.
Traditional black powder hunting weapons
There are numerous replicas available in a variety of price ranges. The most well-known is perhaps the Hawken rifle. Thompson Center is probably the best-known maker, and their Hawken rifles are sturdy, accurate, durable and reliable. Thompson Center offers the Hawken in both percussion cap and flintlock.
Higher-end brands might replicate more exotic or artful firearms from the 18th or 19th centuries. But for rugged dependability in a firearm a hunter won't worry too much about getting scratched or marred in the field, the T/C is tough to beat.
Regardless of the firearm chosen, hunters should bear in mind the caliber restrictions for big game hunting. Each state has particular restrictions. Most states require at least a .45 caliber weapon to hunt deer. Frankly, that would probably be adequate only on the smaller, more delicate species of big game -- such as eastern whitetail deer or pronghorn antelope. For mule deer, elk or other larger species, a rifle of at least .50 caliber is probably more practical.
Muzzleloader ballistics
Those who have never fired a traditional weapon should familarize themselves with the limitations of such weapons. While modernized muzzleloaders might boast ranges of up to or even over 200 yards, hunters should not count on being able to place a humane killing shot at much more than half that distance with a traditional smoke pole sporting iron sights. A lack of practice and inadequate knowledge the weapon's parameters will lead to missed hunting shots, which are frustrating, or poor hits and wounded animals -- which is ethically unacceptable.
Cast Bullets vs. Round Balls
For the novice, cast bullets -- rather than a strictly traditional patch and ball -- might be a wiser choice. Cast bullets are far more devastating, and thus more forgiving in terms of shot placement on a big game animal. Of course, that still won't allow for irresponsible shot placement or a significantly increase the weapon's range. As with any weapon, the best, most ethical shot is to put the projectile through the animal's chest cavity vitals by aiming just behind the front shoulder.
Cast bullets can be bought over the counter at many sporting goods. Or, more ambitious hunters might consider buying a mold and casting their own bullets. Lead melts at a relatively low temperature. It's prudent to melt and cast lead only in a well-ventilated area to avoid possible health hazards. Also, hunters should check all state and regional regulations regarding special restrictions on the use of lead because of possible environmental hazards.
Another advantage of cast bullets over the patch and ball is that they can be pre-lubed at home. Loading a pre-lubed bullet takes far less time than trying to pull off a quick second shot by reloading with a patch and ball. There are commercial lubes available, but an old do-it-yourselfer's trick is to simply lube each bullet with a generous helping of Crisco. It works like a charm in the field.
Hunting for deer with a muzzleloader requires much of the same gear and preparation as hunting with any other weapon.
Hunters ready to take on the challenge of using a traditional weapon should shop carefully for a rifle that suits them and practice enough to know the weapon's limitations before taking it into the field.
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