Newbie Questions

[CP]

Hi folks!  I’ve been lurking around this site for a few days trying pick up some info on primitive arms hunting opportunities and rules in WA.  While cleaning out my old, unused weaponry, I recently rediscovered an Uberti Santa Fe Hawken rifle, caliber .54.  I haven’t fired this rifle in about 20 years and I’ve never hunted in WA State before.  I’m looking to correct both of those oversights as soon as possible but I’m running into a few problems.

Problem #1, ammo – This weapon is rifled for ball ammo and it’s not exactly a true .54 cal, closer to .53 cal and it takes a .520 ball.  I can’t find anyplace that carries this size.  Does anyone know where I can find this either locally (I live near Everett) or on-line?

Problem #2, Where to shoot it?  The range that I shoot at doesn’t allow BP weapons.  Can anyone recommend a range that does?

Problem #3,  The rules – My eyes aren’t 20/20 anymore so I was looking to fit the rifle with some optics keeping inline with technology of the weapon’s period but as I read the regulations, scopes of any type are not allowed.  Am I reading that correctly?

Problem #4, the rules again – “ (a) It is illegal to carry or possess any  firearm during muzzleloading seasons which does not meet the following specification for muzzleloader: Is loaded from the muzzle and … “

I’d like to also carry a 9mm for piece of mind but obviously (a) rules that out, but reading further:
“(d) Muzzleloader hunters can carry a handgun designed to be charged with black powder only. It is NOT legal for hunting or dispatching big game.” 

Does that mean I can carry a percussion revolver even though it doesn’t meet the criteria for (a) above?

[bobcat]

I can only answer one of your questions and that is regarding scopes, you are correct...they are not legal to use during muzzleloader season. What you need is a good peep sight.

You COULD use your muzzleloader with a scope AND carry your 9mm if you hunted during modern firearm season. Just something to think about.

[Slenk]

CP
 I have the same rifle . No better shooter made. It will kill Deer and Elk with round ball and about 80 to 90gr. Blackpowder or Pyrodex.
I finally ordered a mold from a guy in England.
http://www.jt-bullet-moulds.co.uk/
Dang straight up guy he sent me the mold and then I sent his money to a address in California that was on the invoice.
E-mailed him and he sent it the next day.
They are well made and a good mold. you will need your own handles or buy handles from him.
Slenk

[bobcat]

I expect that the ML only season is less crowded and the game is less wary

I wouldn't count on that. For deer that may be true, but not elk.

[bobcat]

There are more units open for deer, and deer are generally spread out rather then concentrated in certain areas like elk. From my experience muzzleloader elk seasons can be just as crowded as rifle seasons, or even more so. But for deer I think you very well may have the woods to yourself.

[KillBilly]

 Problem #3,  The rules – My eyes aren’t 20/20 anymore so I was looking to fit the rifle with some optics keeping inline with technology of the weapon’s period but as I read the regulations, scopes of any type are not allowed.  Am I reading that correctly?[/quote]

If you check out the regs you will find that if you are considered handicapped due to vision, you can scope your muzzle loader. Of course other benefits come along with the handicap status also. You would need your eye doctor to provide documentation. You then get a "Hunter/Fisher with disability Application" and go from there.