two questions re: set triggers and nipples

[johnwm]

A gent from whom I purchased two muzzleloaders yesterday (at a garage sale!) insisted that the proper method for using a double set trigger is to have the hammer on full-cock before setting the rear trigger. I have always put the hammer on half-cock, carrying the gun or sitting on stand that way until a shot presents itself, then setting the trigger and finally putting the hammer on full-cock when ready to fire. Is one method significantly superior or preferable to the other?

One more question: Does anyone have experience or opinions relating to a replacement nipple that allows the use of standard pistol primers instead of #11 caps. I have always had great ignition when using real black powder and HotShot nipples. Any advantage to primers?

 

[necchi]

There is no superior or preferable method for the set trigger use, it's the same as your preference for Ford or Chevy.

There is no need for modern primer use with traditional rifles. Folks that have issue with ignition generally have a poor cleaning technique and/or have a build up of crud in the flash channel.

 

[Rifleman1776]

Triggers can be set up different ways. Do as you wish with yours.
As stated, no need to use modern pistol primers if your rifle is clean. There used to be such adapters on the market.

 

[Zonie]

Some folks set the rear 'set trigger' with the lock set at half cock and some wait until the lock is fully cocked.

IMO, setting the rear 'set trigger' with the lock at half cock and then moving the hammer/cock to full cock is somewhat safer.

I think this is especially true for hunters.

With the gun at full cock and their full attention on the pray, it's pretty easy for the finger to latch onto the front trigger instead of the rear 'trigger'.
If this happens, rather than setting the rear trigger the finger will pull the front trigger and discharge the gun.

Had the lock been left at half cock the only thing that would have happened would be the finger would say, "Hey! This damn trigger isn't setting like it should." Then, the brain would say, "Hey dummy. Your on the wrong trigger! Move back to the right trigger and try it again."

This problem can happen at a shooting range too.
I know all you folks will find this hard to believe but while getting ready to take a shot at a target, with the rifle fully cocked, my finger also got lost and latched onto the front trigger while my brain was saying, "Set the rear trigger.".
Sure enough, "BLAM" went the rifle.

Good thing the muzzle was pointed downrange.

Of course I instantly took on my "That was all a part of the plan folks. Nothing to see here." look.

The thing to remember about set triggers and half cock notches is, don't have the hammer at half cock when you release the set trigger.
It usually won't cause a problem but there is a chance that it can break the sear or the half cock notch on the tumbler.

 

[Rifleman1776]

I would agree with you except for one, IMHO, major point. A shooter should be familiar with his gun. How/when he setts should be a matter of preference and second nature. Especially when hunting. My preference on the range is to full cock then sett. I do the same thing when hunting. In the Ozarks we don't have much time to act when deer hunting but I avoid hurried shots. Taking time to full cock while sighting then setting forces me to focus on the shot. But, that's just me.

 

[Patocazador]

The only reason to use a primer instead of a percussion cap is to set off a substitute powder. The hardest one to ignite is Black Horn 209. 777 can be difficult also. The replacement for the nipple is called a Mag-Spark and holds a 209 shotgun primer.
With BP becoming harder to obtain, there are more subs popping up. One day it may be necessary to use primers routinely.