In late December 1974, 2,064 hunters prowled the woods and fields of 37 Pennsylvania State Game Lands in search of their quarry, the whitetail deer. Over the next three days, these hunters would tag 65 deer, only four bucks. In terms of the impact on the overall season, this was a drop in the bucket, as hunters would bag 125,891, including 54,963 bucks, during the entire season. But those three days were about more than numbers; they were about tradition—old and new.
Over the years, there have been many changes to the muzzleloader-only season. In 1979, it was expanded statewide rather than to only select Game Lands. Today’s hunters enjoy 3 weeks compared to the earlier 3 days to chase their prey. In 2024, over 157,000 hunters purchased the special tag required to hunt with a muzzleloader, although it is impossible to tell how many hunted during the late primitive firearms-only season. But one thing remains the same- the unique connection these hunters share with the past and Pennsylvania’s own history.
The flintlock muzzleloaders used during this unique season—Pennsylvania is the only state to have a muzzleloader-only deer season—are as much of an experience as tagging a deer. The rules state hunters must use a flintlock ignition, a single-barrel long gun manufactured prior to 1800, or a similar reproduction. The firearm must be chambered in .44 caliber or larger, use a single projectile, and cannot utilize telescopic sights.
While some hunters opt for antique weapons originally carried and used by early settlers, these can be difficult to come by and often far too valuable to take in the field. To meet the demand, a cottage industry has been established that provides period authentic replicas built specifically for those who wish to hunt during the primitive season.
A handful of local artisans dedicate their talents to handcrafting Pennsylvania Rifles in the same style and manner as the original design. Also known as the Kentucky Rifle or American Rifle, this firearm is believed to have originated in the Lancaster, PA area; thus, its strong tie to Keystone State hunters. During the 1700-1800 period, this firearm was at the top of its field thanks to a tighter fitting round and a rifled barrel in lengths as long as 48 inches. While hardly a match for modern rifles, hunters, and soldiers lucky enough to have one at the time gained a decisive advantage in the woods or on the battlefield.
Of course, using primitive firearms means facing a wide range of challenges as the season does not start until after Christmas, and hunters face the possibility of far harsher conditions than those encountered during earlier times of the year. The range is limited as well. Even with its groundbreaking rifling, an 1800-period muzzleloader is still more challenging to master than a modern rifle. Plus, depending on the flint to spark into a pan, which will then ignite a charge to fire the round, leaves a lot of room for error. These difficulties and challenges are why the original 1974 hunters only bagged 65 deer over three days.
So why do they do it? Some will tell you it is about keeping the tradition alive, even dressing in period garb, including buckskins and beaver caps, while they do so. Others will cite the challenge of targeting already weary deer after facing hunters during archery, early muzzleloader, and rifle season. But for most, it is about the excitement they get from getting to fire such a magnificent piece of American history.
Each year involves hours spent maintaining the rifle, practicing the shot, and planning the perfect hunt. When a shot finally presents itself, the hunters must focus entirely on keeping their sights on the animal and holding perfectly still after the shot is fired. Even the slightest flinch can send the ball astray, but the hunter would not know it until the thick cloud of smoke clears, revealing either a trophy on the ground or a space where it once stood.
If you have never tried hunting with a primitive muzzleloader, I highly recommend giving it a shot. But be warned: It can be addictive, and you could soon find yourself out in the cold, stalking a deer until you are almost within bow range just to see if you will be lucky enough to pull the trigger, hear the thunder, and see the smoke and fire that helped our ancestors conquer this land.
Featured image courtesy of Kyle Wirik.
Tom Burrell grew up hunting, fishing and exploring the wilds of Northeast Pennsylvania. After serving in the Marine Corps and Coast Guard he returned to PA as a Waterways Conservation Officer and settled in Cumberland County. Now he spends his time once again exploring the woods and waters of the Keystone State.