muzzleloading

Muzzleloading refers to firearms in which the propellant and projectile are loaded through the muzzle of the barrel, not the breech. Historically, these weapons relied on black powder and were widely used from the 16th through the 19th centuries. For smoothbores, projectiles were simple lead balls; for rifled barrels, elongated bullets were commonly wrapped in a patch and rammed down with a ramrod. In all cases the propellant charge, the projectile, and any wadding or patches were loaded from the muzzle and compressed to seal the bore.

Loading involves pouring a measured powder charge into the muzzle, then placing a patch and ball (or bullet) atop it, and finally driving the assembly down the bore with a ramrod. Some weapons used separate projectiles and patches or wadding to suit the bore and rifling. The ignition method varied across eras: matchlock weapons used a burning slow match to ignite a priming charge; wheellock employed a rotating wheel; flintlock used a flint striking steel to spark a priming pan; percussion locks used a percussion cap on a nipple that ignited the main charge.

In modern times, muzzleloaders are produced for historical study, sport shooting, and reenactment. They may fire black powder or approved substitutes, and require careful cleaning to remove corrosive residues. Because loading and priming involve exposed powder charges, stringent safety practices are essential, especially during loading and unloading.