During the nine days of competition, and for several days prior, the town exudes a sense of both history and competition, especially the latter. Whether at the major shoots or at local club gatherings, Muzzleloader shooters enjoy the competition and exhibition of skills that were admired as early as the 1500s. The pungent aroma of blackpowder smoke, the necessity of making one shot do the job, and the link to history are only part of the reasons for the growing popularity of Muzzleloader shooting. The attraction to blackpowder shooting varies. The slow-paced simplicity of blackpowder shooting is equally gratifying, as is the individuality inherent to the sport.
Accessories vary with the gun.
Add a custom stock or precision action and the Muzzleloader evolves into a personal work of art, expressing one's own tastes and style. Regardless of the firearm used, hearing protection should be considered mandatory and good quality shooting glasses provide protection against flying bits of powder residue, copper bits from detonating caps, or other debris. Shooting clothes can be anything that is comfortable, but if the shooting bug bites you there are plenty of suppliers offering to sell blanket coats, kepis, capotes or buckskins for period costumes.