Abstract: A projectile for firearms and for muzzle loading firearms, in particular, said projectile including a bullet; a gas check member; and a pin or cavity affixed to the bullet and a mating member affixed to the gas check member for frictional attachment of bullet to gas check member. The bullet has a diameter less than the bore of the firearm to minimize scoring or deformation of the bullet during the loading procedure; to facilitate loading; and to improve the ballistics of the bullet; and the gas check member being constructed of resilient plastic material and having a diameter exceeding the diameter of the bore for holding the bullet in place within the bore over the charge. The gas check member attaches by the mating attachment members to the bullet rearward of the maximum diameter of the bullet to prevent any interference between bullet and bore as the bullet obturates during firing.

Abstract: A self-removing cover guard for muzzle leading firearms of the type having a nipple for receiving a percussion cap. The cover guard includes a plate or cup secured to the breech or drum of the firearm by the nipple; a spring loaded hinge connected at one end to the plate or cup; and a nipple cover affixed to the other end of the hinge for pivotal placement or displacement of the nipple cover on or off the nipple. The spring, which may be integral with the hinge, is biased to automatically remove the nipple cover off the nipple, and hence the percussion cap, when the firearm hammer is retracted from its un-cocked, cover holding, position. A sealant may be provided between the nipple cover and the nipple or cup to protect the percussion cap from moisture.

Abstract: A device for loading black powder, a projectile, and optional components into the muzzle of a muzzle loading firearm. The device includes an elongated tubular cartridge for holding the components to be loaded; a cartridge receiving housing for placement of the cartridge relative to the muzzle; and a plunger for insertion of the components into the muzzle. The cartridge has a central bore, substantially equal in diameter to the bore of the firearm, and preferably is transparent for viewing of the components therein. A crimp or frangible membrane serves to close one end of the cartridge and the projectile closes the opposing end. The cartridge housing includes a slotted portion for receiving and holding the cartridge and is provided with end apertures, aligned with the base of the cartridge for reciprocally receiving the plunger. The housing preferably includes a jacket for fitting over the end of the muzzle for perfecting alignment of the muzzle and cartridge bores.