Unloading a Muzzleloader

There are four basic methods for unloading a muzzleloader when you are finished hunting for the day.

• Discharging
• Point the muzzleloader at a suitable backstop.
• Ensure that no one is in front of your position.
• Discharge into the backstop.
• CO2 Discharger (Safest Method)
• Follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Place the discharger on the nipple or in the flash hole.
• Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• Discharge the bullet and powder.
• Modern In-Line Muzzleloader
• Remove the breech plug.
• Push the projectile and powder out the rear of the barrel.
• Un-Priming (Most dangerous and to be used only if absolutely necessary)
• Remove the cap from the nipple or the powder from the pan.
• Cover the flash hole.
• Use a bullet puller to remove the bullet and pour out the powder.

When a muzzleloader is unloaded, place your ramrod or loading rod in the barrel before leaning the firearm against a good rest—this will prevent debris from falling down the barrel and blocking the touch hole.