When I make a mistake which can effect others, I like to bring it out in the open and make sure that everyone is now clear on the pointwhich was under confussion. In this case, I stated that Wisconsindid not allow the use of smokeless powder in muzzleloaders during the muzzleloader season.

Redclub was kind enough to point out the mistake I made when I stated Wisconsin did not allow smokeless powder. I guess since the idea never effected me, I never really paid it any attention and never realized they had changed the law.

Well this morning I was called by a representative of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources from the head offices in Madison. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (as Redclub pointed out) smokeless powder is perfectly legal to use during muzzleloader season in Wisconsin.

The DNR representative explained, if the powder can load through the muzzle it is legal to use in the State of Wisconsin. I told him I was surprised by this change in attitude from the State. We then discussed a lot of the other current powders on the market today. As he explained it was decided that Pyrodex, Triple Se7en and some other powders were less smokeless then Goex or black powders and they saw no difference with the modern powder used in such rifles as the Savage.

He again pointed it must be loaded through the muzzle and he added that many rifles on the current market are not rated or certified for the use of smokeless powders. He said the only rifle he personally was aware of that used smokeless powder was the Savage. I told him their may indeed be other makes and models out there, but since I did not really get into the smokeless powder muzzleloader sport I was not up on the different models out there.

We then discussed some of the velocities that these new rifles can reach and some of the projectiles they can shoot. To this he seemed to express that the selection of firearms was the choice of the hunter. If they wished to hunt with some of the more modern powders, it was their choice. Just as if they decided to hunt with the more tradtional rifles available.

I was left with the impression from this person that the State of Wisconisin wishing to be fair to all hunters in regards to muzzleloader powders decided they would open the options of powders to include smokeless. The Statewanted to let the hunter decided what was best equipmentfor themselves to use,to get the most enjoyment out of their sport.

Redclub I appreciate you pointing out my mistake.