Homeless, Range safety is universal. If you can run a moving tank range you can certainly run a simple rifle range. But to answer your question about muzzleloading experience, I build them, shoot them, hunt elk with them, and trained in them by NMLRA - certified to train instructors for them. I only cited the experience because that seemed important to your earlier statement. The combined extensive knowledge of the NMLRA in the safe handling of muzzleloading firearms far exceeds a range officer or two and led to the rule against the practice.
Your "not for idiots" remark is not appreciated because it presents such a temptation for a non-constructive response. We are trying to help a brother refrain from a dangerous practice. I suggested alternative methods for you to accomplish the same objective safely by using a tube to blow from the breech. A short piece of clear plastic tubing from ACE hardware will work perfectly on a percussion nipple.
I have only pursued the topic this far because I would hate to see this dangerous practice spread through failure to respond. Are you absolutely certain the rifle is empty everytime you blow in the muzzle - just as certain as you are when you were distracted while loading and failed to add powder before putting a patched ball down the bore? Most every muzzleloader I know with any significant experience will admit to that oversight at least once. Would the same level of error be acceptable to you when blowing in the muzzle?
Once you are comfortable putting your head in front of the muzzle will you eventually forget the rifle is loaded and place your hands or head over the loaded muzzle while talking to someone on the line or while waiting to shoot? If nothing else the practice promotes further dangerous handling.
Last edited by Jerry V Lape; 01/31/07 01:34 PM.
