New Muzzleloader Requires Change In Code

LITTLE ROCK – During the July meeting of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, commissioners unanimously approved the use of a new type of hunting muzzleloader. The rifle uses an electronic ignition system that is completely sealed from the elements.

The trigger of the gun is an electronic switch powered by a battery. Since the new muzzleloader was approved for this year’s hunting seasons, there has been some confusion about the status of “loaded” or “unloaded” firearms relating to this new technology.

The following definition has been added to the AGFC’s code concerning the new technology:

Firearms shall be considered to be loaded if shells or cartridges are in either the chamber, magazine or cylinder; percussion cap muzzleloading firearms are considered loaded if the percussion cap is on the nipple; flintlock muzzle-loading firearms are considered to be loaded if there is powder in the flashpan. Electronic pulse ignition muzzleloaders are considered to be loaded if the ignition circuit is charged.

Muzzleloading season opens in Arkansas on Oct. 13.