Traditions Evolution Thunderbolt Tracker - Manual (Page 29)

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DECAPPING YOUR MUZZLELOADER:
1. Use a De-capping tool to remove a primer or a percussion cap from
the nipple.
2. Slide the tool alongside the inner part of the cap or primer closest
to the nipple and push the cap or primer off the nipple.
3. A depriming tool is provided with your rifle. This is a flat piece of
case-hardened metal approximately 2 1/2” long and 1/2” wide,
with a forked arrangement at one end. Use the forked end of this
tool to remove spent 209 primers from your rifle. See Fig. 27.
IF YOUR GUN FAILS TO FIRE:
Anyone involved with muzzleloading firearms will experience a
hangfire or misfire. The following are a few simple procedures that
will help you to effectively manage such occurrences.
Hangfire
A hangfire is a delayed ignition. The percussion cap fires when the
trigger is pulled and the main charge fires a brief moment later. There
are many reasons that hangfires occur. If you are experiencing a
substantial number of hangfires, there are a few possible causes that
you need to evaluate. Verify the following:
1. Check that the load is packed tightly. Review loading procedures.
2. Verify that the percussion cap is the correct size and properly fitted
onto the nipple.
3. Inspect that the ignition channel is clear of obstruction.
4. Check the condition of the percussion nipple. Verify that it has not
mushroomed on the end and that it is securely screwed into the
breech plug.
5. Verify that the proper propellant is being used and that it is the
proper granulation and free from moisture, contamination and oils.
6. Check the condition of the percussion caps and propellant powder.
For hunting situations, it is a wise practice to use fresh caps and
powder. Use a fresh load for each day’s hunting.
7. Make sure to prep your firearm by running a cleaning patch to
clear the bore of oils, moisture and contamination. Fire two or three
caps before loading to insure that the ignition channel is clear. See
#7 in earlier section headed Preparation.