New hunter questions

Hello,

I am new to hunting and decided that I would like to give black powder a try. I have shot for several years on and off, did some of the Rendezvous events, but have never used the rifle for hunting.

I am looking for suggestions on reading material, suggested gear, loads etc.

Currently I have 2 percussion traditional style black powder rifles both in .50 cal one is a Lyman and the other is from Cabelas. I am interested in giving it a go for deer and pig, but am open to any other opportunities.

I am also wondering how the lead ban in Ca is going to impact muzzle loading for hunting. Is there a manufacturer out there making non lead projectiles for us?

Thanks,

Scott

Develop a good load then shoot, shoot, shoot and shoot some more until you can keep your shots within a paper plate (~8", the size of the vitals on a deer) at 25-75 yards. Learn where your rifles shoot at these distances, as well as how to estimate distances. A good sharp knife is handy, but more importantly, know how to sharpen it properly.

Gut your game promptly, cool quickly and hang 1-2 weeks (at ~35-38F) for tasty, tender meat.

sallen67 said:

Hello,
I am looking for suggestions on reading material, suggested gear, loads etc.

I am also wondering how the lead ban in Ca is going to impact muzzle loading for hunting. Is there a manufacturer out there making non lead projectiles for us?

Click to expand...

Scott, welcome to the forum and congratulations on your decision to pursue game with a traditional muzzleloader.

One book that helped me when I started is The Complete Blackpowder Handbook, by Sam Fadala
http://www.amazon.com/The-Complete-Blackpowder-Handbook-Fadala/dp/0896893901

and also Advanced Blackpowder Hunting by Toby Bridges.
http://www.amazon.com/Advanced-Black-Powder-Hunting-Bridges/dp/B00A17V89O

Now both of these are going to have a mix of traditional and modern muzzleloader info in them, but there is much to be learned from each.

Another pretty good source of fun watching and info is the series of traditional black powder hunting videos from Brian Beckum at Beckum Outdoors. Each will show you a bunch of actual hunts as well as various tips on loads, cleaning, shooting, etc.
http://www.beckumoutdoors.com/

Regarding lead in Calif, don't know what impact that will have, but ITX makes non-toxic roundballs (high-price) http://www.ballisticproducts.com/ITX-50-cal-non-toxic-Roundball-12-balls/productinfo/TXRB50/ . In addition, Forum Member Roundball has done testing on brass round balls (though not sure what all sizes are available...he did .58 cal). You can search for his posts.

And of course, you'll get all the free advice you can handle right here!!! :wink: Good hunting!

Advice:
1. Go with round ball and patch VS conical - You can make your own that way pretty easy.
2. Practice ALOT
3. Read this forum top to bottom for at least 6 months.
4. Make sure you know to clean your gun properly to put away AND before the shooting starts.
5. There are threads on here showcasing non-lead projectiles, where to get them, and accuracy reports. Search them and find acceptable ways to deal with the freaks ya'll vote in down there in Mexico-minor