Know your blackpowder firearms
There are three common types of blackpowder firearms that are used by hunters. They differ only in their action type and how the powder charged is ignited.
- Break-action muzzleloader.
- Inline percussion muzzleloader.
- Flintlock muzzleloader
Let’s take a look at the common parts of a blackpowder firearm.
Breech
The breech is where the primer is placed. In most of today’s modern muzzleloaders, the breech can be removed by hand for easy cleaning and to remove the load if you are not going to fire it.
Hammer
The hammer is used to fire the muzzleloader. It strikes the firing pin, which then strikes the primer or priming charge, producing a spark to ignite the powder.
Ramrod
The ramrod is used to load (seat) the projectile into the barrel. It is also used as a cleaning rod.
