1
|
What Accessories do I need to shoot my muzzleloader?
The basic essentials to load & shoot a muzzleloader are:
- Ball starter - this tool gets the projectile started in the barrel and gives you better leverage than using just a ramrod. Traditions sells many different types including round ball, T-handle, composite and wooden starters. You can choose any type that you feel will work best for you.
- Capper - this tool is used to hold percussion, musket caps & 209 primers. They come in very handy because #11 caps are very tiny and are hard to handle with just your fingers. The capper also is great because you don't have to carry the tin of caps rattling around in your possibles bag or pocket.
- Flask - this is a can that can be used to hold Pyrodex® or Black Powder in a
smaller amount than a 1 pound can. It also usually has a convenient spout to pour
the powder into a powder measure. Flasks come in all different types including
solid brass, composite, blackened, clear, short, long, Colt® style and Remington®
style.
- Powder Measure - this is a brass, blackened or clear calibrated measuring device that you can pour your powder directly from your flask into the measure. Most devices are adjustable from 5 - 120 grains of powder.
- #11 Percussion Caps, Musket Caps, Shotgun Primers or Flints - these are your kinds of ignitions depending on the type of muzzleloader you have. You will need to buy these to actually fire the muzzleloader. You can get these at your local, well-stocked gun or sporting goods store. Please read your instruction manual when choosing what type of cap you can or should use with your muzzleloader. If you have any questions about the caps or primers, please contact the manufacturer of the caps.
- Powder or Pellets - The only two types of powder you can use in a muzzleloader are Pyrodex® or Black Powder. Never use SMOKELESS POWDER. Pyrodex® comes in Pellet form and loose powder. Black Powder comes only in loose powder. You can get Pyrodex® and Black Powder at most well-stocked gun or sporting goods stores. Please read your instruction manual when choosing what type of powder you can or should use. If you have any questions about the powders, please contact the powder manufacturer.
|
2
|
Do I have to clean my muzzleloader right after I shoot it?
Yes, the sooner the better. Cleaning your muzzleloader after shooting enhances its performance and prevents damaging rust or corrosion.
|
5
|
What if I need to get parts or service for my Traditions muzzleloader?
If you do not find what you are looking for on our website, you can request parts or service via e-mail or by calling our 800 number and asking for the Customer Service Department. (1-800-526-9556)
|
6
|
How can I obtain a Warranty/ Instruction Manual for my Traditions firearm?
Warranty and instruction manuals are free from Traditions. Please make sure to thoroughly read the warranty and shooting instruction booklet that came with your new firearem. If your new firearm did not come with an instruction booklet download one now from this website. You will need Acrobate Reader in order to complete this process. If you do not have Acrobate reader - go to their website and download the program. It is typically free. http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html
If you are having problems with the download process Traditions will send you a hard copy of the specific instruction manual. Send your request by e-mail: info@traditionsfirearms.com.
Remember - downloading is free and takes no time at all.
|
7
|
Can I use Pyrodex® Pellets in my Traditions Side-Lock muzzleloader?
Depending on the model you have you may use Pyrodex® Pellets. Our ThunderTM Magnum (R70002) and Hawken Magnum (R30802) rifles are designed to shoot the Pyrodex® pellets. All Alpha Mag, E-Bolt, Evolution, Lightning Bolt, PA Pellet, Pursuit and Tracker models also accept Pyrodex and Triple Seven pellets. If you are still unsure whether or not your gun can accept the pellets contact Traditions Customer Service Department.
|
8
|
What size allen wrenches do I need to take-down my Traditions In-Line muzzleloader?
If you have a LightningTM Bolt Action, you will need a 5mm to take the stock off the barrel and a 2mm allen wrench to take the bolt apart. If you have a BuckhunterTM Series In-Line, you will need a 5mm allen wrench. Please check your instruction manual for the correct usage of these tools.
|
9
|
How do I get the bolt out of the receiver of my LightningTM Bolt Action?
Make sure that the rifle is UNLOADED AND UNCAPPED FIRST. Check your instruction manual if you are unsure how to do this.
1. Unlock bolt by raising its handle upward, then retract it to the rear portion of the receiver.
2. Move the thumb safety to the forward "FIRE" (F) position.
3. Pull the trigger to the rear, and hold it in that position.
4. Pull the bolt rearward, and remove it from the receiver.
Note: When replacing the bolt back into the receiver, you must remember to hold the trigger when sliding the bolt back in.
|
10
|
How do I disassemble the bolt on my Traditions LightningTM Bolt Action Rifle?
- Using the 2mm allen wrench, loosen and remove the small set screw located in the bolt head underneath and at the rear of the bolt.
- Using the Traditions 209 Decapping Tool (A1404) or wide-bladed flathead screwdriver, unscrew the striker located at the front of the bolt, and remove it from within the bolt body.
- Separate the striker, spring and bolt head.
- Clean and lubricate all parts using Traditions Gun Oil (A1232).
|
11
|
Can I use a musket nipple with my Traditions Side-Lock muzzleloader?
A musket nipple, of the correct thread size, can be safely substituted for the standard #11 nipple on most Traditions Side-Lock muzzleloading rifles. It is very important to ensure that the hammer is correctly centered and aligned with the new oversized nipple. Rifles that have been manufactured utilizing the #11 nipple as original equipment often have small variations in the point of contact of the hammer face to nipple.
|
12
|
Can I adjust the trigger on my Traditions LightningTM or BuckhunterTM Series Rifle?
Your trigger has been adjusted at the factory and should not be tampered with.
|
13
|
What is the best type of projectile for my muzzleloader?
The type of projectile will vary depending on the muzzleloader you own.
If you own a fast twist barrel (1:28") such as our Pursuit, Evolution, Lightning Bolt, Tracker or Buchhunter, the best projectile is a saboted bullet. We recommend the Expander MZ Solid Copper Hollow Point (A1470 or A1472) , Traditions APB 200 Bullets (A1801, A1802, A1803, A1804, A1805), or the TraditionsAPB 100 Bullets (A1822 or A1823).
If you own a muzzleloader with a 1:48" twist barrel, we recommend that you shoot a conical lead bullet, such as our Ultimate Swaged Lead Bullet (A1450 or A1451).
If you own a muzzleloader with a 1:66" twist barrel, we recommend that you shoot a patched round ball, such as our Swaged Lead Round Ball (A1241, A1244, A1449, A1242, A1245, A1263, A1243).
|
14
|
What types of powder can be used in my Traditions muzzleloader?
Pyrodex®, Triple Seven or Black Powder ONLY. DO NOT USE SMOKELESS POWDER. When using Triple Seven you should reduce recomended black powder or pyrodex load by 15%.
|
15
|
What size bases go on my LightningTM Bolt or BuckhunterTM Series rifle?
We carry a full line of bases and rings for our muzzleloaders. Please check out our Accessories page on this site or our Muzzleloading Catalog. If you own a LightningTM Bolt or BuckhunterTM Series, the correct bases are A1320 or A1321. If you own a Traditions Side-Lock that is factory drilled and tapped, the correct bases are A1322 or A1323.
|
16
|
What is Pyrodex®, and can I use it in my muzzleloader?
Pyrodex® is a synthetic powder designed specifically for muzzleloading. Pyrodex® causes much less fouling than does common black powder. There are two forms of Pyrodex® - loose powder (P, RS, & Select) and Pellets (solid form of loose powder). If you have other questions or inquiries about Pyrodex®, please contact Hodgdon Powder Co. at http://www.hodgdon.com
|
17
|
How do I adjust the sights on my muzzleloader?
Center the rear sight for windage and elevation so that you have a starting point. Take three shots at 25-40 yards to establish a group. If all three shots hit in a 2"-3" area, you can then move the sight left or right and up or down if needed. Do not move or adjust your sights until you are hitting all three shots in the group.
If your shots are hitting the target at the right, move your sight left. If your shots are hitting the target at the left, move your sight right. If your shots are hitting too high, move the sight down. If your shots are hitting the target too low, move the sight up. If you have any questions about sighting in, you may email or call, and we will gladly answer your questions.
|
18
|
What is the thread size of Traditions nipples?
Standard #11 Percussion nipples are Metric 6x1mm. LFS Magnum Nipples for 209, #11 or Musket are M8x1mm. Revolver nipples from Pietta are M6x.75.
|
19
|
Can I convert my side-lock into a flintlock?
NO.
|
20
|
When is a muzzleloader considered UNLOADED?
When the cap, powder and projectile are out of the muzzleloader, only then is the gun considered UNLOADED.
|
21
|
What happens if I leave my muzzleloader loaded overnight?
Condensation may develop in the barrel because of the change in temperatures from outside to inside. The powder may become damp, and the chance of it not igniting the next day is pretty high. We recommend either pulling the charge with a ball puller (A1280), or removing your bolt assembly and breech plug to push your powder and bullet out through the receiver, and reload the next day.
|
22
|
How often should I clean my muzzleloader?
After every time you shoot it.
|
23
|
What is the correct projectile/powder charge combination for my rifle?
The best choice is the one that delivers good accuracy and sufficient velocity for the intended target. An efficient load for hunting will consume all of the powder, propel the projectile at a sufficient velocity, maximize performance and be accurate at many distances. We recommend that you experiment with several loading combinations to see which combo your rifle likes. One of the best things about muzzleloading is that you are able to choose the load you want to shoot.
|
24
|
What is the maximum amount of powder I can load in my muzzleloader?
The maximum amount of powder will vary with the muzzleloader that you own. Please refer to the instruction manual for proper loads of powder and projectiles.
|
25
|
What if I remove my breech plug and bolster from my side-lock muzzleloader?
You will void your warranty.
|
26
|
What if my breech plug is stuck in my In-Line muzzleloader?
The most common cause of a stuck or difficult to remove breech plug in an In-Line Muzzleloader is powder fouling or corrosion in the threads. To remove stubborn breech plugs, use a water-base solvent/cleaner (A1435 Easy Clean, A1295 WonderLube 1000 PlusTM) to penetrate and soften the powder fouling. Plug the nipple with a rubber or leather patch between the nipple and hammer. Fill the barrel with solvent, and allow time for the solvent to works its way into the threads of the breech plug. When trying to remove the breech plug after soaking, it may be necessary to secure the barrel (in a vice) to prevent movement and remove the breech plug. Using a back and forth movement with the breech plug wrench handle during the unscrewing of the breech plug will often speed up the process of removal. Thoroughly clean and lubricate the breech plug and barrel threads before re-assembly. If you still cannot remove your breech plug after performing these steps, please call or email our Customer Service Department.
|
27
|
What if my bullets are hard to load in my muzzleloader?
There could be a couple of reasons that it is hard to load your rifle.
1. Your barrel may be very dirty, and it needs to be cleaned.
2. After each shot you take, you should run a lubed patch (A1240) down the bore to keep the bore clean and seasoned.
3. Check to make sure you are using the correct sabots, projectiles, etc. for the caliber you are shooting.
|
28
|
What size round ball do I use in my muzzleloader rifle or revolver?
| Rifles | Pistol & Revolver | | .32 caliber - .310 | .44 caliber - .451 or .454 | | .50 caliber - .490 | .45 caliber - .440 | | .54 caliber - .530 | .50 caliber - .490 |
|
29
|
How do I get the wedge out of my muzzleloader?
To remove the wedge from your muzzleloader, you will need to use a Wedge Puller (A1255). The wedge puller has a small hammer claw and a punch to help facilitate the removal. Use the punch to start the wedge out of the stock and barrel, and use the claw to pull the wedge out. Start the wedge by tapping the thinner side to a distance where you can reach it with the claw. Finish extracting the wedge using the claw. Pay close attention to which way the wedge came out of the stock and which way the curve of the wedge came out. When replacing the wedge, you will need to replace it the exact same way it came out. Most wedges will be inserted from the lock-side with the curve going down. This may not be true of all guns. Take your time when replacing the wedge, and do not force the wedge into place. If you are removing the stock from Pennsylvania and Shenandoah rifles and do not know how, please contact our Customer Service Department for directions.
- I can't get the wedge out of my new Colt-style revolver. How can I remove it? The wedges are normally tight on these revolvers when new, but break in quickly with use. You may need to use a non-marring punch (brass or hard plastic) to tap out the wedge the first few times. Drive the wedge from right to left to remove it.
|
30
|
What should I use to clean my muzzleloader?
We feel that the best products to clean your muzzleloader are EZ Clean (A1435), Concentrated Bore Solvent (A1209), Wonderlube 1000 Plus™ Bore Solvent (A1295), Wonderlube 1000 Plus™ (A1254, A1294) and Wonderlube 1000 Plus™ Lubed Patches (A1362).
|
31
|
Where can I get a catalog?
You can email us at info@traditionsfirearms.com, phone or mail us with your request. (There is no charge for the catalog.)
|
32
|
My ramrod is too loose or too tight. What can I do?
Locate the ramrod retaining spring which is located in the stock channel. You will need to remove the barrel from the stock to find the spring. Bend the spring forward to tighten the tension, or bend the spring backward to loosen the tension. If you have any trouble with this, please contact Traditions' Customer Service Department.
|
33
|
What type of Black Powder should I use in my muzzleloader?
There are four (4) types of black powder which are designated by granulation.- 1f or fg - used with cannons and large gauge shotguns.
- 2f or ffg - the most commonly used powder in muzzleloading rifles, shotguns and pistols of .45 caliber and larger.
- 3f or fffg - used in muzzleloading rifles, pistols and revolvers of .44 caliber and below.
- 4f or ffffg - used to prime the pan of a flintlock
If you have other questions or inquiries about black powder, please consult the manufacturer of the powder. GOEX, INC. 318-382-9300 * ELEPHANT BLACK POWDER 800-588-8282 or visit www.elephantblackpowder.com.
|
34
|
What size flint do I use in my Traditions flintlock, and what type do I use?
5/8" hand-knapped English flints. You may want to opt for a slightly larger flint if you have a PA Pellet or new style flintlock assembly with the larger frizzen.
|
35
|
What peep sights fit on Traditions muzzleloaders?
Contact XS Sight Systems at 1-888-744-4880/www.expresssights.com or Williams Gun Sight Company at 1-800-530-9028/www.williamsgunsight.com.
|
42
|
While reassembling my Tracker 209, Sporter Mag 209, or Buckhunter rifle, I put the bolt in backwards. How do I remove it?
Remove the stock. This will expose the trigger group. Remove the trigger group by loosening the two 3mm hex bolts that secure it to the receiver. This will free the bolt and allow it to slide through the rear of the receiver. Reassemble with bolt oriented correctly.
|
43
|
Why can't I get the bolt back into my Evolution/Thunderbolt rifle?
The striker must be cocked to allow the bolt to be installed in the receiver. The bolt head must be in its rearmost position. If the striker has become uncocked during assembly or disassembly, insert the bolt into the receiver backwards, with the corners of the bolt head aligned with the receiver groove. Press upward on the bolt handle until the bolt turns clockwise. This will cock the striker. Remove the bolt and reverse it, reinstalling it in the receiver as normal.
|
44
|
Can I safely use Triple Seven powder in my muzzleloader?
Yes, but make sure to follow Hodgdon's recommendation to reduce loose powder charges by 15%.
- Can I safely use Triple Seven pellets in my muzzleloader? Yes, but they must be used only in inline muzzleloaders with 209 ignition systems.
|
45
|
I can't get my inline rifle to group. What do you suggest?
We recommend using standard saboted bullets from Hornady and Barnes. Make sure to use high-pressure sabots. Hodgdon's Triple Seven powder has shown excellent accuracy in our test rifles. Experiment with powder charges to find one that groups well with your chosen bullet in your individual rifle. Swab the bore frequently, make sure you have a steady rest, and pay attention to your shooting fundamentals.
|
53
|
Do you offer left-handed versions of your inline muzzleloaders?
The Pursuit can be used by both left-handed and right-handed shooters.
|
54
|
Do you offer left-handed versions of your sidelock rifles?
Yes, the Deerhunter, Hawken and PA Pellet rifles are available in left-handed models.
|
55
|
My Tracker 209 or Sporter 209 Mag rifle is missing the spring follower. How do I get one?
The spring follower was eliminated from the design of these rifles. They are perfectly safe to shoot without the spring follower.
|
62
|
Can my buckhunter Pro pistol be converted to 209 or musket ignition?
No. The Buckhunter Pro pistol is only capable of using #11 caps. The 209 conversion kit for the Buckhunter rifle will not work in the pisol.
|
63
|
Is a .44 caliber cap and ball revolver suitable for hunting deer?
No. Even with a maximum powder charge, a 140 grain round ball will achieve only about 850 fps, thus producing only 224 foot pounds of energy at the muzzle. This is equivalent to a .38 special cartridge revolver, and insufficient for humane killing of deer-sized animals. We recommend limiting the cap and ball revolvers to small game and finishing shots on downed, larger animals.
|
64
|
Are the classic muzzleloading pistols suitable for hunting deer?
No. A maximum charge in a .50 pistol will push a 175 grain ball at only about 800 fps. This produces only 248 foot pounds of muzzle energy, which is inadequate for ethical deer hunting. Use these pistols only on small game, or for finishing shots on downed, larger animals. if you wish to use a muzzleloading pistol for deer hunting, we only recommend our Buckhunter Pro inline pistol.
|
65
|
Can I put the improved PA Pellet lock on my older muzzleloader?
No, the new lock is not interchangeable with the old one.
|
66
|
Can I order cannon fuse directly from Traditions?
Not unless you are a licensed dealer. Due to shipping regulations regarding hazardous materials, we cannot ship cannon fuse to individual consumers.
|
67
|
Can I convert my Cabela's Timber Ridge rifle to 209 ignition?
Yes. Order the A1511 conversion kit by calling Traditions Customer Service.
|
69
|
What scope mounts should I use on my Thunder Magnum?
Because of the stepped barrel design, we do not recommend scoping the Thunder Magnum. Weaver #75 bases will fit, but the front base must be thickly shimmed to bring the scope into coaxial alignment with the bore. This is seldom a satisfactory arrangement, unless done by a custom shop, and we recommend against it otherwise.
|
