Congrats on the deer. I know how you must feel about the spike but I wouldn't worry about it. I won't shoot a spike but I wouldn't get worked up ifI did.

I would just take the primer out if it's legal. That's whatI do. It's much easier than unloading.I would say you can leave it loaded for up to a couple of weeks. I wouldn't worry too much about leaving it in the car.

Welcome to muzzleloading!!