Definition of a "percussion cap"-Help!!!

[smoky]

I hunt in Arkansas and I am contemplating the purchase of a 209 x 50 barrel for my encore.  The following is an excerpt from the game and fish website.

Legal muzzleloaders use flintlock or percussion cap, ...

I would argue that this includes #11 caps, musket caps, 209 primers, .22 Hornet conversions, etc.  because the are all set off via percussion.

But, I would like some other opinions on this.

Thanks,

Smoky

[Thomas Krupinski]

I think prudent thing to do is write or e-mail your Game & Fish department for a clarification of the defination of percussion cap.  Then if that does not include the 209 primer, maybe you can pursue changing it, if you are interested.

Everyone will have opinions on defination, however theirs are the ones that count.

[Wolfhound]

I think prudent thing to do is write or e-mail your Game & Fish department for a clarification of the defination of percussion cap. Then if that does not include the 209 primer, maybe you can pursue changing it, if you are interested.

I second that. Unless your muzzleloader regs specifically spell it out for you, you need to contact your Game and Fish dept. Muzzleloader regs are so varied that you must be sure of your regs BEFORE buying a first muzzleloader.

[RandyWakeman]

Legal muzzleloaders use flintlock or percussion cap, ...

I would argue that this includes #11 caps, musket caps, 209 primers, .22 Hornet conversions, etc.  because the are all set off via percussion.

But, I would like some other opinions on this.

Thanks,

Smoky

Better to argue now, than later.

Normally, a percussion cap is a #11 cap or musket cap. Called a cap, because they "cap" a nipple. Anvil style battery cup genre primers (209s) were designed to fit into, not onto. Up to the states-- IL states a 209 primer is a legal muzzleloading percussion cap.

[Underclocked]

"07.02 CERTAIN MUZZLE-LOADERS PROHIBITED. It shall be 04-97 unlawful to hunt during the muzzle-loading deer seasons with: (A) Firearms capable of being loaded by means other than through the muzzle; (B) Firearms converted from cartridge type firearms which remain capable of firing a self-contained cartridge or being altered or reconverted back into a firearm capable of firing a conventional cartridge; (C) Firearms not using flint or percussion igniters (percussion caps or primers) to ignite the gunpowder; (D) Firearms less than .40 caliber and with barrels less than 18 inches in length; (E) Firearms firing more than one projectile per barrel or chamber (buckshot prohibited);
(F) Muzzleloading handguns with barrels less than nine (9) inches in length, of less than .45 caliber, and loaded with a projectile weighing less than 200 grains (.45 caliber or larger conical bullets, or .530 and larger round balls); EXCEPTION: (1) Any caliber muzzle-loading pistol or (cap and ball) percussion revolver permitted to be carried when a legal muzzle-loading long gun is in hunter's immediate possession. PENALTY: $100.00 to $1,000.00. "

Primers are certainly legal in Arkansas as indicated above (from their website regulations in pdf form).   Beyond that, the conversions would be a small stretch as they do not violate these rules as I read them.

[RandyWakeman]

Are they "okay for the trunk"? :shock:  :shock:  :shock:

[Underclocked]

You'll have to call Dell for that one.

[RandyWakeman]

Did do!

Those poor fellows didn't even know what the "Joltmaster" was-- but, they did offer to sell me additional Smartmedia for it.

[smoky]

Thanks Underclocked,

I guess I didn't dig deep enough on the web site.  209's are definately o.k. and I believe the .25ACP conversion to be o.k. based on 07.02c, but I will be checking just to make sure.

Thanks,

Smoky

[Darwyn]

I had the same question here in Ontario if the 209 met the definition of a percussion cap?  Anyway I will have to check the regulations closer.  I have an Encore 209x50.  If the 209 primer is not permitted, does someone make a breach plug for the Encore that would take the #11 or musket cap?

[rickyp]

just food for thought: If you are unsure of a reg and get a email or letter back from DNR explaining it to you (such as in the 209 primer case) You need to always keep a copy with you and send the same email out every year asking the same questions just to be sure the laws didnt change.
many DNR officers may not know the law either. If you are questioned about it you can just show them a copy of the email or letter.