What type of powder is safe to use in muzzleloaders?

The safest type of powder to use in muzzleloaders is black powder. This type of powder has been specifically formulated for use in muzzleloading firearms and is known for its lower pressure characteristics compared to smokeless powder. Black powder ignites more consistently and is the traditional propellant used in historic firearms, ensuring compatibility and safety when firing.

Using smokeless powder in a muzzleloader can lead to dangerous situations. Smokeless powder operates at much higher pressures, which can cause the firearm to explode or malfunction if it is not designed to handle those pressures. Similarly, synthetic and granulated powders may not provide the same burning characteristics and pressures that black powder does, leading to inconsistent performance and potentially hazardous situations. Therefore, black powder is always the recommended choice for muzzleloading firearms.