Muzzleloader’s are cantankerous at times, but heading off problems before they happen is the difference between a trophy and just another sad tale of the one that got away.
1) Wake Up - I am worse than most about remembering to clean my muzzleloader at season’s end. Set an alarm! Before season begins, set an alarm on your smartphone or write it on your calendar to remind yourself to get off your tail and clean. Not to mention, this adds an additional safety check to make sure it’s unloaded before putting it away.
2) Tape It Shut - As simple as it sounds, placing a piece of electrical tape over the barrel keeps junk, especially moisture, out of the barrel and away from the powder. This one tip has saved many hunts when I’ve made long stalks through driving rain.
3) Stay Sharp - Load consistency in muzzleloading ensures your next shot hits its target. To make sure powder and sabot are seated properly, I mark my ramrod with a sharpie indicating where it should land at the muzzle. This little step gives me peace, knowing everything is in the correct spot.
Muzzleloader hunting has its fair share of difficulties. However, if you keep it clean, dry and sharp, you’ll be on the positive side of a big buck story. ~ KJ
Kevin Jarnagin
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma, but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big game hunter, and knows his way around a bass boat. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, Jarnagin always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind.
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