I’m planning to hunt this year in the Mt. St. Helens area, first time in about 12 years. Back when I hunted last, the muzzleloader regs were pretty strict: open breach, no scopes, and no 209 primers. I’ve heard some of that has changed—now closed breech and scopes are legal?
I still have my old Knight LK-93 .50 cal using #11 caps and open sights. It’s a solid rifle, but I’m wondering if it’s worth sticking with the ole smoke stick or if it’s time to upgrade to a newer inline muzzleloader with 209 primers and scope (not exceeding 1x magnification are allowed?).
Also, my 11-year-old will start hunting next year, so I’m factoring that into the decision too.
Any recommendations or experience with recent reg changes, newer muzzleloader models, or just thoughts on whether to update or stick with what I’ve got?
Thanks in advance and happy hunting!