I am looking for my first black powder rifle. Where can I get good literature on them? I have never fired one and I don't know anyone who shoots one, so I'm feeling a little overwhelmed due to lack of knowledge. I am considering a T/C Omega, but only because of ads I've seen on hunting shows. What do you guys think? Thanks in advance for any help...it will be greatly appreciated. Dave

I am also new to blackpowder. I found the book " The Complete Blackpowder Handbook " by Sam Fadala to be very helpful. Also, this forum is very helpful as almost every blackpowder subject has been discussed at one time or another. Good luck !

The Omega is a good choice to shoot sabots. It will handle all the black powder type powders. Make sure the hunting laws in your state allow this type of firearm. With a scope on the gun it will keep all shot in 3" at 100 yds. Some groups even smaller. The owner manual is your best guide.

Several questions must be answered before spending any money EXCEPT for a book or two. Modern inline, traditional or something in between? Shooting paper (competition or pleasure) or hunting or both?

Patriot22 was right, Fadala does the best job, though his old book is acutually better than his new one, but it does NOT cover the modern in-lines like the new version.

Make your decision on type of rifle and use then start looking at them and handling them.

ALL Old style (real) muzzleloading shooters are full . . .FULL of opinions, some of which are based on fact!

This is a great time to be looking because as soon as season is over there are usually many relatively new rifles "dumped" on the market and a savy buyer can find a bargain (though there may be a reason).

I have barrels for traditional guns that cost more than my in-line and scope and yet are NOT as accurate. The barrels and "bullets" have different purposes, and mentalities of what is a "FAIR" distance to shoot.

There are so many powders and "bullets" available today that one has to just do some testing with what is readily available in their area.

Do some reading, visit as many sites and gather opinions then buy what seems best for your purposes and enjoy one more part of the shooting sports!

LouisB

I recommend getting a Lyman black-powder reloading manual it is full of information on loading, shooting, and casting.

Swede44mag
I love the smell of black-powder in the morning.

Are there any web sites strickly for the muzzle loader shooter? One where they talk about the different fire systems such as flint locks percussion and inline 209 with out a bunch of bashing?
That might be a help for the beginner.
Al

With a handle like that you just have to be from the UP,eh! You might try www.bushneloutdoors.com click on Community and scroll down to Blackpowder. Most of the people there are very helpful and the mods will not tolerate the kind of bashing that goes on here. derf