Muzzleloader Question

April 16, 2008 by: Grant

Mike from Michigan writes: “Hey guys I have had my muzzleloader loaded since December season, and have not unloaded (fired) it yet. I have kept it in the garage, but the temps are starting to creep up, and I was wondering how safe it is to shoot it now?”Greetings Mike! That’s a very good question. There are two schools of thought on this. When it comes to safety with firearms you can never take chances. But, the question to me becomes a little blurred when considering what your two options are.

Option one is to take the muzzleloader out to a safe spot and fire away. I have heard of many guys who have kept their black-powder’s loaded for long periods of time and then go out and shoot them with no problem.

Your other option is take apart your 50 cal and manually remove the projectile and powder/pyrodex. If you are shooting a lead ball they make a type of attachment for your ramrod that you can screw into the projectile and pull out. I just did the same thing about a month ago and pushed my ramrod from the muzzle side of the gun out the back, removing both the pyrodex and projectile, although I have to admit I was a little “gun shy” about doing that. That powder is like a solid gasoline ready to ignite if properly provoked. I made sure to stand clear of that barrel while pushing through. Part of me thought it would probably be safer to just go out and shoot the thing.

In the end it’s got to be a call that you make. I know this doesn’t directly answer your question, but you know your gun better than anyone else does. Also, it may not be a bad idea to see what the manufacturer of your muzzleloader recommends. Just remember that safety is your number one priority!

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