Hello everyone!!
Very first post!!!
I have recently purchased my first muzzleloader (.50cal Traditions Hawken Woodsman) to hunt with this fall. The regulations in my county don't allow for any breech loading firearm to be used so not only am I a brand new hunter at 33 years old, I'm also newish to rifles (owned a Romanian WUM-1 a decade ago) and 100% new to muzzleloaders.
After shooting and cleaning the gun do I need to oil the barrel to prevent rust? What care should be taken to prevent rust/corrosion?
I will be hunting from the ground due to financial restrictions (Just had a daughter and won't be able to afford a tree stand). Any tips to hunting on the ground?
When it comes to gear, I have the following so far:
Camo Backpack w/ water pouch
Green Gun Sock
Gun
Pre-lubed .015" Patches
.490 Horniday Balls
Powder
Powder Flask
Powder Measure
#11 Caps
inline capping tool
Ball starter
Extra Ramrod
Hoppes cleaner
Cleaning Patches
Getting right before deer season (have to save up some more):
Field Dressing kit (2 knives)
Camo (pants, jacket hat)
Blaze Orange
Compass
What other stuff should I pack/wear/use? Flashlight? Food? Shoes? Scent stuff? Deer cart(after field dressing)? Extra nipple?
Thanks guys for all the help in advance!!