Hello Mr. Tarlow. My name is James B and I wanted to contact you regarding current Fish and Game regulation prohibiting the use of smokeless powder in muzzleloaders. I am curious to know if you are willing to take a closer look at this subject? Have you ever considered that there are less toxic, less vision obscuring (safer), and lower or equal velocity propellants available. I was really surprised to learn that "Triple Se7en" that is allowed for muzzleloading contains low-explosives, di-nitros, one notch below tri-nitros: TNT. Did you guys know all this?
If you consider DOT classification of explosives/combustibles the guidelines for regulating such propellants then you would have to rule current blackpowder substitutes such as Hodgdon Pyrodex, Triple Seven, Goex Pinnacle, and American Pioneer illegal as well. All are classified as 1.3 powders by U.S. DOT, as is the most popular "smokeless propellant" in the Savage ML, Accurate Arms 5744. True loose black powder, which is more unstable, difficult to ship, and harder to sell, receives a US DOT classification of 1.1.
Probably the most popular propellant used by NJ muzzleloader hunters would be Hodgdon's Pyrodex. When it was originally marketed it was refered to as a smokeless propellant and also as a blasting compound for mining operations. When it is burned it releases TOXIC cyanide gas. Marketing semantics now labels it differetly, but it is still the same DOT cl [no swearing please] powder.
The evolving sport of muzzleloading hunting is growing by leaps and bounds and many of the misconceptions of the public are just that. It has been a while since I have taken the muzzleloader/rifle permit safety course mandated by the state to muzzleloader hunt. I was curious to know if these facts were being incorporated into the course? I was shocked to learn that some of the highest velocity loads are achieved with a now legal and popular "three pellet" load.
It is also interesting to note that neighboring states Pennsylvania and New York allow "smokeless" powder in guns designed for it.
In closing I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this and welcome any further discussion on this subject.
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