Hello. I'm new to this website and all the postings. I've searched for the following and have not been able to find the subject so here it goes.....

I'm new in the muzzleloading world. I've purchased the NEF Sidekick. It's the synthetic stock with the stainless barrel. I'm am curious to know if it's proper and especially safe to unscrew the breech on a loaded muzzleloader. I have not heard of this and I've asked some coworkers and they say they have never heard of it. It seems to me that it should be safe but I'm asking for some input. I know it is NOT in the manual of the weapon so I assume it's not recommended. I love shooting this gun but there are times that I'd rather not.

Also, I'd like some input on sighting in. I've got it sighted in right on @ 100 yards but on a "dirty" barrel. I'm getting ready to sight the gun in on a "clean" barrel and completely reclean this gun between each shot. Good idea or not? I'm getting several different "theories" but have not really decided what's best. I shot a buck a few days back and lost the buck when the blood trail ended. I still feel good on my shot placement and am blaming the result on my decision to sight in on a "dirty" barrel and making my shot at the buck on a completely clean barrel.

Hope all this makes sense and I'd appreicate some input.

Happy Holidays

Michigan Outdoorsman