How to Load a Breakopen Muzzleloader
So you want to get a breakopen muzzleloader but you don't know how one works? Well, you're in luck. The breakopen muzzleloader, also referred to as a "break action," is like any other muzzleloader on the market. The difference is in the firing mechanism and, like other muzzleloaders, it's easy to use and effective.
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Things You'll Need
- Ramrod
- Cleaning patches
- Percussion caps
- Black powder
- Powder measure
- Muzzleloader ball
- Cloth patches
- Ball starter
- Bullet lubricant
Instructions
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1
Prepare the muzzleloader. Make sure the barrel is clean of debris and oil, though a little residue from multiple firings won't harm your muzzleloader. To clean the barrel, ram down a cleaning patch with the jag that fits onto the end of the ramrod. After cleaning, place a cap on the nipple, cock the hammer and fire without any round in the barrel to help burn up any remaining oil.
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Powder the barrel. Place the butt of the rifle on the ground, making sure the weapon is pointed away from you. Measure out the powder charge, and pour it down the end of the barrel. Use a funnel if necessary. Tap the butt of the rifle butt against the ground to settle the powder.
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3
Load the ball. Grab a cloth patch and lubricate it before placing it on the opening of the barrel. Place the ball on the patch, which should be centered on the opening of the barrel, and push into the barrel as far as you can with your hand. Using the ball starter, shove the ball down as far as the starter will go. Switch to the ramrod and ram the ball down with the rod until it comes to a stop and in contact with the powder. Make sure not to pack it too tightly as it can be dangerous when fired.
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Set the primer cap. Breakopen muzzleloaders have a lever or a button to press, which will allow the open end of the barrel to swing down from the stock, revealing the primer nipple. Place your cap on the nipple and snap the barrel closed. It is ready to shoot.
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Get ready to fire. To set the safety at "half cock," carefully pull the hammer all the way back, and hold it in place with your thumb. Pull the trigger, while still holding the hammer with your thumb, lowering the hammer until it almost returns to its original position. Let go of the trigger, and pull the hammer back with your thumb until it pops into a half-cock safety. The gun cannot fire until it is completely pulled back. When you are ready to fire, lift the gun to your shoulder, aim, pull the hammer all the way back with your thumb and then pull the trigger.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure the rifle is not primed. No percussion caps should be on the muzzleloader when you begin. Never fire a muzzleloader without the round being rammed firmly against the powder. Failing to do so could result in an explosion.
References
Resources
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