First Thoughts on the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit promises everything a muzzleloader needs to get started. Traditions is a well-known name in the muzzleloading world, and this kit aims to be an all-in-one solution for new black powder enthusiasts and seasoned shooters looking for a convenient package. As someone who’s spent years teaching others the art of muzzleloading, I’m eager to see if this kit lives up to the hype, offering a comprehensive and quality set of tools for a successful day at the range or in the field.
I was drawn to this kit as I often find myself helping beginners get into muzzleloading. The biggest hurdle is usually sourcing all the necessary components individually. I hoped the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit could simplify this process.
Upon unboxing, the kit presents itself neatly. The tools appear well-organized, and the included bullets and sabots are a welcome addition. My initial impression is that it seems geared towards convenience, but the real test will be evaluating the quality and performance of each item.
I considered other starter kits on the market, specifically from brands like Thompson Center and CVA. I ultimately chose the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit based on the positive reputation of Traditions products and the specific items included, which seemed to offer a good balance of value and functionality. This kit includes cleaning solvent and breech plug grease, two items often overlooked by newcomers.
My first impression is cautiously optimistic. I’m excited to see how this kit performs in the field, but the true value will be revealed through extensive use and observation of its durability and ease of use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit at my local shooting range. This allowed me to assess its performance under controlled conditions. The weather was slightly overcast, but dry, providing an ideal setting for muzzleloader shooting.
The kit proved easy to use, even for a novice. The bullet starter made loading the Smackdown SST bullets relatively straightforward. The Traditions DVDEZ Clean Solvent proved effective at quickly removing powder residue.
One minor issue arose with the capper. It was slightly finicky with the 209 primers I was using, requiring a bit more force than anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit has held up remarkably well. The loading and cleaning jag remains sturdy. The cleaning patches provided were sufficient for multiple range sessions.
I’ve noticed some slight wear on the bore brush after cleaning approximately 20 times. This is expected with regular use. The breech plug grease, however, has maintained its consistency and continues to provide effective lubrication.
Compared to my previous experiences using individual components, this kit offers a significant convenience. The quality is generally good, though I may eventually upgrade the bore brush.
Breaking Down the Features of Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
Specifications
- Caliber: 209 Primers. This indicates the ignition system compatibility.
- Traditions DVDEZ Clean Solvent: A specialized solvent formulated for black powder firearms. It’s designed to dissolve fouling quickly and prevent rust.
- Bullet starter with jag: Assists in seating the projectile into the barrel. This protects the bullet and ensures proper seating depth.
- Loading and cleaning jag: Doubles as a ramrod extension. This provides versatility for both loading and cleaning the muzzleloader.
- 209/Musket capper: Facilitates easy and reliable priming. This helps to prevent misfires.
- Bore brush: Used for scrubbing the inside of the barrel. It’s essential for removing stubborn fouling.
- Magnum quick loaders: Pre-measured powder charges for faster reloading. This is a convenient time-saver for both target shooting and hunting.
- Breech plug grease: Prevents seizing and makes breech plug removal easier. Proper lubrication is crucial for muzzleloader maintenance.
- Cleaning patches (40 pcs): Absorbent cloths for swabbing the barrel. These are essential for removing powder residue and solvent.
- Season patches (25 pcs): Used to season the bore. This helps to prevent rust and improve accuracy.
- Smackdown SST 250 grain bullets: High-performance projectiles designed for accuracy and terminal performance. The bullets deliver a balance of speed and penetration.
- EZ Load sabots: Plastic sleeves that encapsulate the bullet. These ensure a tight seal and improve loading ease.
- Ammo tubes with caps (2): Provide safe and convenient storage for bullets and powder charges. They protect the components from moisture and damage.
Performance & Functionality
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit largely fulfills its purpose. The included tools make loading and cleaning a muzzleloader a manageable process. The Smackdown SST bullets offer good accuracy at moderate ranges.
The capper’s slightly stiff operation is a minor drawback. I would appreciate a smoother and more reliable capping action. Overall, the kit performs as expected.
The kit mostly meets my expectations. The inclusion of high-quality bullets is a definite plus. The capper could use some improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The materials used in the kit are generally robust. The bullet starter and loading/cleaning jag feel solid in hand. The components are well-organized in the packaging.
The kit is user-friendly, especially for beginners. The inclusion of a DVD (mentioned on some online retail descriptions, but not included in the physical kit) would have been a bonus, but the items are intuitive enough. The bullet starter design makes loading smooth.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit should last for several seasons. Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining the tools’ effectiveness. The cleaning solvent helps to prevent corrosion.
The kit is easy to maintain. Cleaning the bore brush and jags after each use is essential. Replacing the cleaning patches regularly will ensure optimal cleaning performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit comes with a good selection of essential accessories. There are no extensive customization options within the kit itself. However, the components are compatible with most standard muzzleloader accessories.
You can easily add aftermarket bore brushes or cleaning solvents if desired. The ammo tubes can be replaced with larger capacity versions if needed. The Smackdown SST bullets can be swapped for other projectile types compatible with 209 primers.
Pros and Cons of Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
Pros
- Provides almost everything needed to start muzzleloading, especially for 209 primer systems.
- Includes high-quality Smackdown SST bullets, offering good accuracy and terminal performance.
- Traditions DVDEZ Clean Solvent is effective at removing black powder fouling.
- Convenient and well-organized kit, simplifying the loading and cleaning process.
- Good value for the price, compared to purchasing individual components separately.
Cons
- Capper can be a bit stiff and unreliable.
- Bore brush shows wear after only a few uses.
Who Should Buy Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit?
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit is perfect for new muzzleloader enthusiasts looking for a convenient starting point. Hunters who want a reliable and comprehensive set of tools for their black powder rifle will also find this kit beneficial. It’s a great option for anyone using 209 primer ignition systems.
Those who prefer higher-end, more durable tools might want to skip this product. Individuals who already own a collection of muzzleloading accessories may not find this kit necessary. Someone using musket caps or flintlock ignition would also need to look at different options.
A must-have accessory to consider alongside this kit would be a quality powder measure. A small mallet can also be useful for ensuring the bullet is fully seated with the bullet starter. A rangefinder, while not directly related to the kit’s function, is an essential tool for accurate shooting at varying distances.
Conclusion on Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit offers a well-rounded and convenient solution for muzzleloader shooters. While the capper and bore brush could be improved, the kit’s overall value and comprehensive nature make it a worthwhile purchase. The inclusion of quality bullets and effective cleaning solvent adds to its appeal.
The price of $41.99 is justified given the contents of the kit. Purchasing the individual components separately would likely cost significantly more. This kit is great for beginners and experienced shooters who want the convenience of having everything in one place.
I would recommend the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit to anyone starting out in muzzleloading. It simplifies the process and provides almost everything needed for a successful shooting experience. Get yours today and start experiencing the thrill of black powder shooting!