The first separate hunting season for muzzleloaders opened in 1971, as a primitive hunting season. Participation in the beginning was marginal and hunters were nearly sure of drawing a license, except in trophy elk and deer units. However, the number of hunters applying for muzzle-loading licenses increased significantly when in-lines were legalized in 1999. Bull elk are the main attraction and there are approximately three applications for each license drawn.

Flintlock rifles are the most primitive, using an exposed hammer that holds a wedge of flint. When the hammer falls, the flint strikes a metal plate called a frizzen, sending sparks that ignite a small charge of powder that sends a flash of fire through the touch hole, which leads to the main charge of powder located in the breach. Misfires are understandable, and flintlock hunters must remain diligent in keeping their powder dry.

Traditional muzzle-loading percussion rifles have an external hammer that strikes a percussion cap covering the small end of a funnel called the nipple. The nipple directs the flash through the touch hole and into the side of the breach. Misfires are fewer than with flintlocks, which become less reliable under wet conditions.

Modern in-line muzzle-loading rifles have internal hammers. Firing is similar to that of a cartridge rifle, with ignition caused by a firing pin striking a primer on a nipple at the rear of the breach. The firing pin, primer, and breach all are in-line with the barrel. Ignition is both efficient and reliable in all types of weather. In-line .50 caliber rifles using a 209-style shotgun primer and legal black powder are capable of muzzle velocities surpassing 1,500 feet per second.

All Colorado muzzle-loading elk, deer, and pronghorn licenses are by draw only. Hunters interested in hunting the 2008 season must apply during the big-game licensing process in February and March.

This story is coutesy of the "Outdoor Journal" at the Colorado Wildlife Divison. Written by Dennis.McKinney@state.co.us