Manual

gerously high pressures upon ignition and may result in severe in-
jury or death to the shooter and/or bystanders.
6. Always check to ensure that your muzzleloader is in good working condi-
tion before use. Test the hammer and lock mechanisms carefully prior to
loading. Check the barrel for any obstruction as any blockage may cause
the gun to explode.
7. Use only recommended loading data for the particular model of rifle
in use. Different models have different powder charge and projectile
capabilities. Improper loading or overloading of a muzzleloading fire-
arm may result in severe injury or death.
8. Never place a cap on the firearm until you are ready to fire. Cap should
always be removed when walking, climbing trees or fences, transferring
the gun from one person to another, leaving the gun unattended, etc.
9. Never lean or rest a loaded muzzleloader against a tree, wall, vehicle or
other surface. Any fall of the loaded gun may cause accidental discharge
resulting in severe injury or death to bystanders.
10. Never transport a loaded muzzleloader in any type of vehicle. A muzzle-
loader is considered loaded until powder, bullet and percussion cap are
removed.
11. Never exchange a loaded muzzleloader with any other person. Only the
party who personally loaded or witnessed the loading of the muzzleloader
should fire it. This practice will help prevent overloading or doubleloading,
which may cause severe injury or death.
12. Never store a loaded muzzleloader. Muzzleloaders should be unloaded
and cleaned prior to any storage.
13. Never load a muzzleloader without first making sure that it is unloaded.
14. Exercise extreme caution when hunting from treestands with muzzleload-
ers. The dropping of a loaded muzzleloader may cause accidental dis-
charge leading to severe injury or death. Be sure the cap is removed
whenever raising or lowering the firearm.
15. Never allow the hammer of a muzzleloader to rest against the cap. Any
impact to the hammer or bolt could cause accidental discharge.
16. Never rely upon the "half cock" position as a safety. Muzzleloaders should
always be handled as if ready to fire, regardless of the safety systems
employed.
17. Always use proper cleaning procedures. Firing improperly maintained
muzzleloaders may lead to unsafe pressure conditions, resulting in se-
vere injury or death.
18. Make sure that the projectile is firmly seated against the powder charge.
“Short starting” of the projectile may cause the gun to explode.
19. Always keep the muzzle of the gun pointed in a safe direction while load-
ing. Never lean over the muzzle while loading.
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