Muzzle-Loaders Podcast

What are Firestick muzzleloaders, how do they work, and what makes them different from traditional muzzleloaders? In this episode of the Muzzle-Loaders Podcast, Hunter and Coulton take a closer look at Firestick muzzleloader technology, how the system has evolved, and the Firestick-compatible rifles available to today’s muzzleloader hunters and shooters.

The conversation breaks down the design and functionality behind the Firestick system, including how Firestick technology changes the loading and ignition process compared with a traditional muzzleloader. Hunter and Coulton also discuss the evolution of the platform and some of the advancements that have helped shape modern Firestick muzzleloaders.

They also look at Firestick-compatible muzzleloaders currently on the market, discussing the different rifle options and what shooters should understand when considering a Firestick system.

Topics discussed include:

• What a Firestick muzzleloader is
• How Firestick muzzleloaders work
• Firestick ignition technology
• Firestick-compatible muzzleloader rifles
• Evolution of the Firestick system
• Modern muzzleloader technology
• Firestick rifle design and functionality
• Considerations for muzzleloader hunters and shooters

Whether you’re researching a Firestick muzzleloader, trying to understand how Firestick technology works, or comparing modern muzzleloader options, this episode provides a straightforward overview of the platform and its place in today’s muzzleloading market.

The PowerBelt Copper V2 is here, and in this episode of the Muzzle-Loaders Podcast, Hunter and Coulton sit down with Brad Watts, Director of Marketing for CVA, to discuss the new bullet, the CVA Endura, the new Optima XP muzzleloader, hunting setups, and what muzzleloader hunters can expect from CVA this season.

Brad breaks down what makes the PowerBelt Copper V2 different from previous PowerBelt bullets, including its performance across a wider range of velocities and the changes designed to improve consistency downrange. The team also discusses the development behind the Copper V2 and how it fits into modern muzzleloader hunting and shooting applications.

The conversation then turns to the CVA Endura muzzleloader, including the current Endura promotion and where the rifle fits for hunters and shooters looking to upgrade their muzzleloader setup.

They also take a closer look at the CVA Optima XP, discussing its design, key features, and what separates this new muzzleloader from other options in the CVA lineup. Brad provides insight into what shooters can expect as the Optima XP begins seeing more use at the range and in real-world hunting conditions.

Throughout the episode, Hunter, Coulton, and Brad also share practical discussion about muzzleloader setups, bullets, gear, range preparation, and getting better performance from your equipment in the field.

Topics discussed include:

• PowerBelt Copper V2 bullets
• CVA Endura muzzleloader
• CVA Optima XP muzzleloader
• Muzzleloader bullets and performance
• Hunting and rifle setups
• Long-range muzzleloader shooting
• New CVA products and development
• Range and hunting gear considerations

Whether you’re researching the best muzzleloader bullets, considering a new CVA muzzleloader, or looking to improve your current hunting setup, this episode provides an inside look at some of the latest products and developments from CVA and PowerBelt.

The CVA Endura Muzzleloader is one of the newest additions to CVA’s muzzleloader lineup, and in this episode of the Muzzle-Loaders Podcast, Coulton sits down with Barry Brakebill and Tony Smotherman from CVA for an inside look at the new rifle.

They discuss what sets the CVA Endura apart, the thinking and development behind the new muzzleloader, and some of the features designed to deliver the performance today’s muzzleloader hunters and shooters are looking for. Barry and Tony also share behind-the-scenes insight into CVA’s approach to developing the Endura and where it fits within the company’s muzzleloader lineup.

Whether you’re considering a new CVA muzzleloader, want to learn more about the Endura, or simply want to keep up with the latest developments in muzzleloading, this conversation offers a closer look at what CVA has been working on and what shooters can expect from the new Endura.

Topics discussed include:

• The new CVA Endura Muzzleloader
• Endura features and design
• Development of the CVA Endura
• Expected performance and capabilities
• Where the Endura fits in CVA’s muzzleloader lineup
• The latest developments in modern muzzleloading

Join Coulton, Barry Brakebill, and Tony Smotherman for a closer look at the CVA Endura Muzzleloader and what this new rifle brings to the muzzleloading world.

In this episode of the Muzzle-Loaders.com Podcast, Hunter is joined by Tony Smotherman of CVA to discuss the launch of the new CVA Endura Series. The Endura is CVA’s most advanced muzzleloader ever, featuring a Bergara precision barrel, Variflame ignition with a magnetic bolt face, and compatibility with Blackhorn 209 and select smokeless powders. With Pro and LRH models available, the Endura sets a new standard for long-range muzzleloading performance.

In this episode, Hunter sits down with Gregg Ritz, President & CEO of Thompson/Center (T/C), to dive into the past, present, and future of the iconic brand. Together, they explore the rich history of T/C, current muzzleloader industry trends like the Federal Firestick, and the exciting new projects T/C is working on as they return to the outdoor industry.Gregg also shares insights on the importance of preserving the legacy and heritage of muzzleloading. A tradition that continues to inspire hunters and shooters across generations.Whether you’re a longtime T/C fan or new to the world of muzzleloading, this conversation offers a unique perspective on the sport’s past and future.

In this episode, Caleb and Hunter talk all things black powder and primers for muzzleloaders. Whether you’re new to muzzleloading or looking to fine-tune your setup, they break down what to consider when choosing powder and primers for consistent performance in the field or at the range. Tune in for a practical conversation packed with helpful insights and tips for every black powder shooter.

In this episode, Caleb and Hunter break down the top muzzleloader bullets from trusted brands like Thor, Hornady, Powerbelt, Barnes, Federal and more. This episode covers bullet reliability, performance, and what works best for your hunting style.Learn the pros and cons of saboted bullets, full bore conicals, round balls, and what to consider before buying.

In this video, Caleb and Hunter take a closer look at some of the top scope and sight options from Vortex, Leupold, Burris, Williams, and Muzzle-Loaders.comIf you're considering an upgrade this season, this overview will give you a solid starting point.

In this episode, Caleb and Hunter dive into the top muzzleloaders for big game hunting—breaking down the best rifles from trusted brands like CVA, Traditions, Thompson/Center, Investarm, and Pedersoli.Whether you're heading out for elk, deer, or bear, this guide will help you choose the right muzzleloader for your hunt. We compare each rifle’s reliability, ease of use, and performance in the field to give you a clear understanding of what works best for different hunting styles.You'll learn the strengths and weaknesses of each brand and model, the best uses for modern inline versus traditional sidelock muzzleloaders, and key tips to consider before making your next purchase.

Welcome to the Muzzle-Loaders Podcast!

In today’s episode, Caleb and Hunter kick things off with a short PSA on recent tariff changes and how they are affecting the muzzleloading industry. From there, they dive into the question of using roundball projectiles in modern inline muzzleloaders. Finally, they share their thoughts on the newly released CVA Optima, breaking down what’s new and improved.