Would like some feedback on using a Traditions Hawken in dry conditions. Very dry here in MT and I am concerned about using a muzzleloader until we get some moisture. That said, would I better off using pyrodex vs goex for less possible sparks from barrel and using Great Plains lubed rounds vs patched round balls to reduce chance of a burning patch on ground. I had planned using my Kibler Woodsrunner but no go until we get some rain or snow. Thanks!
Fire Concerns
- Thread starter Toad1
- Start date
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This is a good question Toad. It has been very wet for a while here in the Flathead, and I just got back from a wind racked antelope hunt in the Sweetgrass. It too, was already damp so the question may now be moot where you are.
But I think I will test this out at some point with dry grass where I can keep things under control. If a muzzle burst into it produces no fire, shooting standing should be pretty safe. But no one wants to be "pretty safe" when their butt is in jeopardy of a lawsuit. SW
But I think I will test this out at some point with dry grass where I can keep things under control. If a muzzle burst into it produces no fire, shooting standing should be pretty safe. But no one wants to be "pretty safe" when their butt is in jeopardy of a lawsuit. SW
If you are actually that concerned, then use a conical for such conditions. Black powder would be fine. As dry as it was in several NW states I use to live in, it never was a concern, nor was it a concern for anyone else I hunted with that was shooting patch and ball. I hunted with Maxi Balls.
In my experiences, the only time I have encountered smoldering patches is when using mink oil as lube. I have never had that with a spit patch. Of course, YMMV.
flatcreek
40 Cal
Had one smoldering pretty good the other day and I was using Mink Oil.
Same here. I kept an eye on it while I reloaded. Stopped to pick it up on my way to the target. By that time, the patch had turned to ash. No mink oil patches for me when hunting the prairie!
I personally have not seen a smoldering cloth patch but have seen a smoldering paper cartridge. About a 12" little plume of white smoke and a bit of smell to it. It was on a gravel range so no concerns and nice to experience as a learning moment.
Thanks for the info, definitely don’t want to be “that” guy!
