Last season these 19 hunters scored big--real big--by doing things right and getting a little lucky. Learn from their tales (and drool over their photos) and this fall it can be your turn.

We want
your success story, too!
If you get a trophy deer this year, you could end up on this site, or in the pages of Field & Stream. Send a photo and the details of your hunt to FStrophies@time4.com. More Top Galleries
50 Best Lures of All Time
Trophies from Boone & Crockett
Underwater Action Photos
Beginner's Guide: Bowhunting
Man vs. Catfish

Table of Contents

Introduction:
Why hunt with a muzzleloader? The Three Kinds of Muzzleloader:
Flintlock
Caplock
In-line Which Rifle Should I Use?
Traditional caplock
Modern in-line
Traditional flintlock
Ultra-modern break action How to Load a Muzzleloader Choosing a Bullet
Saboted Bullets
PowerBelt Bullets
Conical Bullets
Round Balls Choosing a Powder
Black Powder
Pyrodex
Triple Seven/American Pioneer Choosing a Primer
Caps
Kleanbore Primers Cleaning Your Muzzleloader Additional Info
A movie you should watch
Some top blackpowder hunts
Where to find more info

Dave liked this tempermental rifle enough to buy one for himself despite its quirks. Here's his review.

What's the best whitetail rifle ever made? The most popular turkey gun in the country? Your favorite handgun? Check out the results of our Gun Nut survey here to find out. PLUS: This is your chance to weigh in on the debate. Your comments are wanted.