Blackpowder safety
Here are some safety considerations when using blackpowder:
- never use 4F powder as a main charge in any type of blackpowder firearm — it is for the pan of flintlocks only
- never smoke when using, loading or shooting with blackpowder, as it may explode
- never load directly from a powder flask or horn into the barrel of a muzzleloader
- always pour powder from a measure into the barrel
- remember, there may be smouldering remnants of powder from an immediate previous shot
- never use smokeless nitrocellulose-based powder in a muzzleloader.
Here are some things to remember about blackpowder firearms.
- Hunters must understand that there are many variables when using a blackpowder firearm that may affect accuracy, such as weather conditions, the type and grade of blackpowder, patch thickness and bullet type.
- Hunters must know and understand the muzzleloading firearm they are hunting with.
- A muzzleloading hunter must be able to accurately judge distance.
- Never store blackpowder in the same area as percussion caps.
- If the rifle has double set triggers, don’t set them until you are ready to fire.
- Always seat the bullet firmly against the powder charge.
- Never use the half cock as a safety.
- Always handle a blackpowder firearm in the same safe manner as any other type of firearm.