another muzzleloader question

[benelli_dude2002]

Being I am somewhat new to this muzzleloading. I was wondering what is the maximum distance as far as yardage goes. I read of some guys shooting at 200+ yards at deer. Just want some opinions. I suppose it all depends what bullet you use and the weight too. Right now I use the open sights on the gun. Any input would be much 'preciated. Thanks in advance! Brian

[irvingdog]

DO NOT CONCERN YOURSELF WITH HOW FAR THEY CAN SHOOT!!!!! It's like asking how drunk a fine bottle of wine will get you. But to answer your question, "It all depends". Hows that for a non-answer?
The thing is, all guns are different, and the loads you choose, powder type and brand are all going to effect accuracy, range, and static-shock. I can make a .22 rifle shoot 400 yards, but it won't dent a pop can. So to, I can hit a can of shaving cream at 225 yards using a scope if you give me 3 trys, but it is not a very ethical shot to take at a whitetail, and that said, you'll be using open sites during M/L season any how.
How far can you accurately shoot with open sites with any gun? Whatever you can reliably shoot with open sites, your gun will probably do the job in terms of energy. Practice, practice, practice. There are no more enjoyable guns to shoot than muzzleloaders!
Keep the gun clean and the powder dry!

[benelli_dude2002]

I hope I didnt sound like I was going to try for a world record distance shot with a muzzleloader. Sorry if I did. Anyways the first time I ever shot my Knight was at 75 yards and I had a better group than my buddies and they had scopes on their guns. I thought that was cool and I was happy with my 3 shot group. My dad and I called in a nice bull moose last fall and could've taken him with a muzzleloader but I had my rifle but this fall I am going to take my Knight. There's bowhunting, duckhunting, moose and deer hunting with rifle but I cant do it all because of my job. I even thought about using it during regular rifle season because I know a few spots where most shots will be inside 100 yards. The first deer I shot in MN last fall on opening day fell to my 300 WSM wishing I had my knight instead. With it being spring now I am getting out to the shooting range more and luckily its only about 4-5 miles away. Happy shooting Brian

[jlm]

MN is restricted in using scopes for the black powder season so I would suggest practicing without a scope. If you plan to use it for the rifle season, then a scope is the way to go as it will increase your ability to shoot further. 200 to 250 yards is about the max range with a scope and a magnum black powder gun. If you are not shooting a mag, your range will be less (that can be argued I guess). Now if you are shooting open sights, you are only limited by your ability to shoot. Most hunters are able to group pretty well at 100 yards. If you want to get beyond that, lots of practice will be needed. I would suggest that you purchase a better sight than what came on your gun if you plan to try shooting further than 100 yards with open sights. Good luck and get the big one!