Traditional...Becoming the past?

[gd357]

eldeguello,

I began hunting with a caplock muzzleloader simply to extend my time in the field with a gun. I had two misfires with two different caplock guns (both were the result of an oversight on my part, albeit a very miniscule detail). However, I didn't, and still don't have the time necessary to get much shooting in (and I never had any misfire when shooting at inanimate targets). So as a result, I shoot an inline. I'd love to get back into traditional muzzleloading, but until I have the time, I'll take the the reliability and simplicity of an inline. An inline is a wonderful way to go during gun season here (considering that we're limited to shotguns, muzzys and pistols). The only time it wouldn't make sense is during a deer drive, when the animals will be running and a second shot may be necessary. I know quite a few people who use caplocks, and a few who use flinters. There's a local muzzleloading club about a mile and a half from where my parents live, and most of the members use traditional gear, and dress the part of a "mountain man". It's a great organization, and one I'd like to be involved in when time constraints allow. I don't think it's a thing of the past, but it seems that it takes a while for younger shooters to appreciate the aesthetic value of traditional equipment. As they mature, and realize that a hunt doesn't have to end with a dead deer to be a success, they will gravitate to more challenging methods of hunting.

gd357