What type of powder is the only appropriate choice for use in a muzzleloader?

The only appropriate choice for use in a muzzleloader is black powder. This type of propellant has been used traditionally in muzzleloading firearms since their inception. Black powder is known for its distinctive characteristics, including the way it burns, the pressure it generates, and its ability to produce the necessary energy to propel a projectile from a muzzleloader.

Unlike smokeless powder, black powder burns more slowly and produces significant levels of smoke, which can obscure vision but is a characteristic feature of traditional muzzleloading experiences. It is formulated with a specific ratio of ingredients—saltpeter, charcoal, and sulfur—that allow it to ignite and perform effectively in the open bore of a muzzleloader.

Using smokeless powder or any other non-black powder propellant in a muzzleloader can lead to dangerous situations, such as over-pressuring the firearm, which is designed specifically to accommodate the unique combustion characteristics of black powder. Thus, when using a muzzleloader, adherence to black powder ensures both safety and proper functioning of the firearm.