|
Muzzleloaders - By Gary McKay
One of the more interesting firearm phenomenon's to watch over the last ten years or so, has been
the resurgence and growing popularity of 'smoke poles' or muzzleloaders. Tired of the hunting crowds, many die hard rifle hunters have switched or added muzzleloaders to their collections of
guns. Unlike the general rifle season, muzzleloader seasons throughout the western elk states usually coincide with the rut, and some of the states offer late season hunts as well. For those
who desire a truly complete 'wilderness experience' and want to relive hunting history as well, a muzzleloader hunt might just be right for you.
Whether you chose a percussion cap rifle version OT the older flintlock, practice, practice and
more practice is critical to achieve success. While most modern rifle hunters rarely practice enough with their rifles, muzzleloaders require even more effort and gun care.
Old timers pampered their prized muzzleloaders. They knew that taking care of their gun was critical to their survival.
Calibers
Most states require a minimum .50 caliber bullet for larger game such as elk.
They also require that the length of the bullet not exceed twice the diameter, if using conical type bullets. A 180 grain round ball, shot with an average powder charge, will leave the muzzle around 1,800 feet per second. Hotter loads may achieve higher velocities, but accuracy is often sacrificed. This velocity is around the same as that of 30-30 carbine rifle. Try shooting over 100 yards and you'll find that a muzzleloader is near worthless. So get in as close as possible before you shoot.
The .54 caliber weighs about 230 grains and is very popular with elk hunters. The .58
caliber carries a little more energy and knock down power. The .60 caliber and over rounds start to introduce significant recoil.
Just as in modern magnum rounds, you should be sure you can handle the heavy calibers before laying down your cash. If your afraid of the recoil, your down-range accuracy will suffer. Over all, the .54 and .58 calibers are our choices.
Rifle Choices
There are a number of muzzleloader reproductions and modern 'in-line' muzzleloaders available on
the market:
Flintlocks
Whether purchasing a flintlock or percussion cap rifle, the lock itself must be quality made, or
you will have more headaches than you bargained for.
The hammer needs to be tight, crisp, and secure on it's shaft. The sparks should be thrown into the pan, not in every direction. The sparks should also be prominent and sizzling. The frizzen needs to have a close fit between the pan and barrel to help keep moisture out.
Percussion Cap Rifles
Like the flintlocks, percussion cap rifles must be quality made to achieve success and avoid
hassles in the field.
The hammer should feel firm and secure, move freely and with authority, and fit snugly against the nipple/ Both the flintlock and percussion cap rifle should have a barrel with a one in 48 inch to one in 72 inch barrel twist to achieve bullet stabilization and accuracy. The grooves (rifling) should be smooth, deep and uniform.
In-Line Muzzleloaders
In-line muzzleloaders have sky-rocketed in popularity in recent years.
Their ease of operation, increased reliability, good looks, and much improved range and accuracy over flintlock and percussion cap muzzleloaders, have appealed to many hunters throughout the country.
Knight, Inc., the number one in-line muzzleloader manufacturer, has many models to chose from.
They come in stainless, synthetic black and camo stocks, scopes, and include other options. their DISC., LK, an MK series designs are some to the best looking and more powerful muzzleloaders available anywhere. Knight, Inc. can be reached at (515) 856-2626 for more information.
NOTE
Colorado has just banned in-line muzzleloaders this year. In Colorado, only flintlock or
percussion cap muzzleloaders are now legal.
Read the rules and regulations of the elk state you'll be hunting carefully! Some of the more accurate late 1800's muzzleloader reproductions are also illegal in some states.
|
