What type of powder should be used in muzzleloaders?

The most appropriate choice when considering the type of powder to use in muzzleloaders is black powder substitutes. This is because traditional black powder is specifically designed for use in muzzleloading firearms, and its substitutes are formulated to replicate the performance of black powder while providing additional benefits such as reduced fouling and easier cleanup.

Black powder substitutes have similar burning characteristics to traditional black powder, allowing them to be used in the same types of firearms while minimizing some of the disadvantages associated with black powder. This makes them a safer and more efficient option for modern shooters who may be looking for an alternative that still works well in muzzleloading applications.

On the other hand, smokeless powder is not suitable for muzzleloaders due to its different combustion properties. Using smokeless powder can lead to dangerous pressures that the firearm was not designed to handle, potentially resulting in catastrophic failure. Traditional black powder is suitable but may not provide the performance advantages that substitutes can offer. Therefore, using either only black powder or including smokeless powder can result in unsafe conditions.