Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Muzzleloaders Going to dust off my muzzleloader, couple questions (breech plug & primers)

I am going to go on a muzzleloader hunt in a few weeks and it has been a few years...seven to be exact. I can't believe 2008 was that long ago.

I have a T/C Encore and I plan to shoot two of the 777 magnum pellets. They didn't have these in '08 I just used 2 50.0 gr. pellets I believe. Anyway are the Winchester # 209 Triple Seven primers the ones to use or can I use standard 209 primers like I did when I shot BH 209? I have both.

Also on the breech plug, when doping the threads before re-installing to you guys use anti-seize only or Hi-Temp PTFE thread seal tape only or combination of tape & anti-seize. I always did anti seize only in the past. But last year I picked up some of the thread seal tape to use after reading about that somewhere on the web.

Thanks

You can use either primer with 777.
When I shot 777 powder for 3-4 years, I used Permatex "copper" anti-seize tube. Only place I could find it was at Napa Auto. The copper grease is one of the most protective antiseize Permatex makes. It's rated for temps to almost 2000 degrees. Less chance of plug seizure using the grease, versus that of tape.

Not familiar with your tape brand, nor that of 777 pellets. I always preferred loose powder.

I wouldn't use the tape at all, Birchwood Casey choke tube lube will get it done. You'd have to remove the tape every time to makes sure there was no fouling under it and it would just add to the cleaning regimen.

TC make some stuff called T17 breech plug cleaner that comes in a little tub with a basket inside, it works beyond well.

Plug seizures are why I quit using 777. Converted to blackpowder in my sidelock and Blackhorn 209 in my inlines. All I use now on breechplug threads is the same synthetic gun oil I use to preserve my bore. Breechplug comes loose relatively easy afterwards, even after 15 shots.

But the best part of my conversion is when I clean my bore. I no longer have any greasy mess to clean up inside my bore.

What Triple Se7en says on the anti seize Permatex. 777 pretty good but I'm going to switch over and try Aliant's new MZ.

Went to the range and shot the T/C today. I forgot how much I enjoyed muzzleloaders. Season opens in 2 weeks. I'm ready!

I'll go back a shoot and few more times just to see where my first shots are impacting and then the 2nd & 3rds, if I need a follow up.

No bucks seen but did see some does and I am leaving with one in the cooler.

The magnum Triple Seven pellets and the Precision Rifle Bullets extreme elite were devastating. Here is a link: https://www.prbullet.com/ee.htm

Going back to Black Horn but the pellets worked just fine.