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General Rules for Use andHandling of Thompson/CenterBlack PowderMuzzleloading Firearms1 If you are unfamiliar with muzzleloading firearms seek professionalinstruction. Qualified organizations such as local gun clubs, The National RifleAssociation, The National Muzzleloading Rifle Association and state HunterSafety Programs offer approved courses which teach safe gun handling andproper hunting procedure. Those who are unfamiliar with muzzleloading firearmsshould seek guidance from an instructor who is qualified by one of theseorganizations.2 If you are uncertain of the terminology or meaning of any word usedin this booklet, write to Thompson/Center Arms. Throughout this bookletthe term “Prime” or “Primed” applies to the act of placing a percussion cap onthe nipple of a cap lock rifle or the pouring of priming powder into the pan ofa flint lock rifle. “Unprime” or “Unprimed” refers to the opposite conditionand indicates the percussion cap (cap lock) or priming charge (flint lock) hasbeen removed or is not in place. In addition, the frizzen on the flint lock mustbe open and the hammer at half-cock to put the firearm in an unprimed condition.“Charge” or “Charged” applies to the presence of a propellant powdercharge and projectile in the bore of the rifle. “Uncharge” or “Uncharged” refersto the opposite condition and indicates that the powder charge and projectilehave been either fired or removed and that the bore is completely clear.3 Know the muzzleloading firearm before attempting to use it. Theoverall functioning and safety features of a muzzleloading firearm are differentfrom modern rifles, shotguns, and pistols. Because of these differences theuser must exercise caution and skill in the use of a muzzleloading gun. Youmust read and understand the workings of the muzzleloading firearm as explainedin this booklet before attempting to use it.4 Use Black Powder or an approved Black Powder substitute, such asPyrodex ® only to load your muzzleloading firearm. WARNING: The useof smokeless powder, or a mixture of smokeless and Black Powder (duplexloads) or the wrong type or granulation of Black Powder or anapproved Black Powder substitute, such as Pyrodex or overloading maycause serious injury and/or death to the shooter or bystanders and damageto property. See section on “Black Powder or an approved BlackPowder substitute, such as Pyrodex ® ,” in this booklet. Thompson/Centermuzzleloaders are designed and intended to be used only with a commerciallymanufactured Black Powder or an approved Black Powder substitute, such asPyrodex propellant of the specific granulation or type called for in this book-2