If you are then I recommend you read Bluelk' s chapters at [Link]http://www.realtree.com/bluelk/index.tpl[/Link]. Bluelk (Rich Dunkirk) recently lost his battle with cancer but leaves behind a legacy of trying to help new folks gain a safe start in muzzleloading.

Another great site for beginner' s help is found at [Link]http://mamaflinter.tripod.com/beginningguidetomuzzleloaders/index.html[/LINK] . Donna is quite knowledgable and has made available a lot of good info.

One more great resource and a supplier of some of the finest muzzleloader projectiles is at [link]http://www.prbullet.com/[/link]. Cecil Epp has done a lot to advance the sport and offers some excellent products. LOTS of info there, look around a bit.

And don' t forget the manufacturer of your rifle/shotgun is usually a good source for additonal info and tips. Sometimes a toll-free number is provided to ask questions that might go beyond the web resources or your owner' s manual. Owner' s manuals are of varying quality and worth but no one should skip reading through those pages to learn what you can about the use and care of your gun.

Seems every year there are more and more folks taking up the sport and the same set of questions start popping up on the forums about this time. Intent here is to give you quick access to some enlightening info and speed up your learning curve.

Finally, don' t discount the worth of this and the several other good forums available to you, where many experienced shooters are willing to take the time and help you learn the ropes.

Be safe and enjoy!