Thompson Center Hawken Rifle Chapter 2

Published on November 7, 2019
Duration: 32:45

This video provides an in-depth look at the Thompson Center Hawken rifle in .54 caliber, demonstrating its loading process, shooting characteristics, and historical context. Instructor Hickok45 highlights the unique appeal of muzzleloaders, discusses technical aspects like ball and patch sizing, and showcases various shooting accessories. He also touches upon rifle maintenance and the importance of safe handling, offering insights from his extensive experience.

Quick Summary

The Thompson Center Hawken rifle in .54 caliber features an octagonal barrel, walnut stock, and brass furniture. For optimal performance, .526 diameter lead balls with specific patches are recommended. Maintenance includes inspecting the bore for rust and ensuring the flash channel is clean to prevent hang fires.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and First Shot
  2. 00:35The Appeal of Muzzleloaders
  3. 02:12Ball and Patch Sizing
  4. 03:19Shooting Accessories (Accoutrements)
  5. 04:38Loading Sequence and Gong Shot
  6. 05:40Rifle History and Maintenance
  7. 07:08Historical Context and APMEX
  8. 08:48Musket Cap Modification
  9. 10:35Bowling Pin Shot and Hang Fire
  10. 12:25Shooting as a Family Tradition
  11. 13:45Light Load Demonstration
  12. 15:25Maxi-Ball (Conical) Shooting
  13. 16:45Conclusion and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the Thompson Center Hawken rifle shown?

The Thompson Center Hawken rifle featured is in .54 caliber, with an octagonal barrel, American Walnut stock, and polished brass furniture. It uses a percussion cap ignition system, which was modified to accept larger musket caps for easier handling.

What ammunition is recommended for the Thompson Center Hawken .54 caliber rifle?

For optimal fit and accuracy in the .54 caliber Hawken, .526 diameter lead balls are recommended, used with specific patches. The video also demonstrates the use of heavier conical 'Maxi-Balls' for hunting larger game.

What maintenance tips are provided for muzzleloaders like the Hawken?

Before purchasing a used muzzleloader, inspect the bore for rust using a small flashlight. Proper cleaning after use is crucial to prevent rust and potential issues like hang fires caused by residual oil in the flash channel.

What are the advantages of using musket caps on a muzzleloader?

Replacing the standard #11 nipple with one that accepts larger musket caps makes them easier to handle, especially with gloves. They can also provide a more robust ignition spark, potentially leading to more reliable firing.

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