MUZZLE LOADER, BLACK POWDER REPORT
By Paul Mullin
As everyone is aware Zone H had its second inter zone muzzle loader shoot. It had been advertised through the various clubs within the zone.
On Saturday May 31, 2008, the Barrie District hunters and Anglers Conservation Club, hosted a Muzzle loading, Black Powder Safety Seminar. This seminar was well received, a report was forward to the zone.
On the agenda of this seminar was the topic of Loaded and unloaded muzzle loaders for the purpose of hunting / transportation.
I have inserted the text from the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC) and the Revised Statutes of Ontario, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.(RSO)
The issue ad to do with the loaded or unloaded FLINTLOCK Rifle.
The Criminal Code states that a flint lock is unloaded for the purpose of transporting between hunting sites, when the FLINT is removed!
The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act states that a FLINTLOCK is unloaded when the VENT is PLUGGED.
Both the Criminal Code and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act agree that a percussion muzzle loader is safe to transport from site to site, when the cap is removed from the nipple.
For those hunters that hunt with a Flint lock rifle know the trials and tribulations you experience in removing and remounting a flint.
In oder to comply with both acts the following was suggested;
a) When walking on a roadway, crossing a road or within the road allowance, you as a flintlock hunter would be safe and comply with the law by dumping the pan of powder and placing a plug in the vent.
However if you choose to change hunting sites, and will be entering some type of Motorized vehicle or Vessel, I would strongly suggest that you remove the flint.
On the conclusion of the days hunt and you are returning home/camp it is recommended to empty your rifle, whether flint or percussion.
With the modern inline actions it is quite easy to remove the Breach Plug and push the powder and sabot through.
If you are hunting with a Traditional Flint or percussion rifle it is recommended you discharge the load safely.
Once home and you let your rifle reach room temperature give it a good cleaning make it ready for the next days hunt.
Remember Black Powder and its substitute are prone to moisture.
I have spoken to Joe Reid Ministry Natural Resources Wildlife, he advises there has not been a hunting accident with a Muzzle Loader for some years. he further advises that there is some confusion with the law when dealing with Flint Locks.
If you are experiencing and difficulty with your Muzzle Loader and require assistance, please contact me at home (705) 725-0340, work (705) 792-4231
If you are interested in attending one of these safe huntingand shooting seminar please contact me.
I remain yours in safe hunting,
Paul Mullin
