When should you always wear safety equipment while using a muzzleloader?

Wearing safety equipment whenever handling live ammunition is essential for several reasons. Safety gear, such as eye and ear protection, acts as a critical barrier to prevent injury from potential accidents that can occur during the handling process. This is particularly important with muzzleloaders, where users may be dealing with loose powder, projectiles, and other components that, if mishandled, can cause serious injury or damage.

Safety equipment ensures protection against unforeseen circumstances, such as misfires or accidental ignition, which could result in the expulsion of materials at high speeds. This principle of safety is reinforced across all aspects of firearms training, emphasizing the need for protective clothing and gear whenever live ammunition is present.