The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit Made a Bold First Impression
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit promises to be an all-in-one solution for muzzleloader enthusiasts, packaging everything needed to load, shoot, and clean their rifles. Traditions is a well-known name in the muzzleloading world, and this kit aims to simplify the shooting experience for both beginners and seasoned black powder shooters. From cleaning solvent to bullets and sabots, the kit boasts a comprehensive approach to muzzleloading.
My foray into black powder shooting started with a hand-me-down rifle and a frustrating search for compatible accessories. Finding the right bullet starter, cleaning solvent, and even correctly sized patches felt like a constant scavenger hunt. The promise of a complete kit, like the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit, was immediately appealing because I craved efficiency and organization.
Unboxing the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit was a pleasant surprise. The components were neatly arranged, and the quality of the individual items seemed respectable at first glance. The bullet starter felt solid, the cleaning patches appeared to be of good quality, and the inclusion of both bullets and sabots was a welcome bonus.
Similar kits exist, such as the Thompson Center Muzzleloading Range Kit and the Hoppe’s Black Powder Accessory Kit. However, the Traditions kit stood out due to its inclusion of projectiles, making it a truly “ready to go” package. The other kits I considered often required a separate purchase of bullets and sabots, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the completeness of the kit and the potential time savings it offered. Time will tell if it lives up to its promise.
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 outdoor shooting range, a familiar environment that allowed me to focus solely on the performance of the kit’s components. The day was overcast with a slight breeze, typical early spring weather. I shot approximately ten rounds, focusing on the loading process, ease of cleaning, and overall usability of the supplied tools.
The loading process, utilizing the included bullet starter and magnum quick loaders, was noticeably faster and smoother than my previous method of individually loading powder and projectile. The bullet starter with the jag worked effectively in seating the bullets properly. The DVDEZ Clean Solvent also worked well, removing most of the fouling with relative ease.
However, the musket capper felt somewhat flimsy, and I experienced a few misfires initially. I suspected a poor fit on the nipple, but I made sure to press firmly when capping. This issue disappeared after the first few rounds, suggesting a possible break-in period or a learning curve in using the capper effectively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including two additional range sessions and a brief foray into some light woods walking, the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit has held up reasonably well. The cleaning tools remain in good condition, showing no significant signs of wear.
The cleaning patches are still plentiful, but I did need to order more breech plug grease because the supplied amount was small. I did notice that the bore brush started to shed bristles after about 20-25 uses, suggesting a need for replacement in the near future. Proper cleaning is essential to preserving your muzzleloader for years to come.
Compared to my previous piecemeal setup, the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit offers a significant improvement in convenience and organization. I find myself spending less time searching for individual components and more time actually shooting. The consistency of using matched components also seems to have improved my shot-to-shot consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
Specifications
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit includes the following:
- Traditions DVDEZ Clean Solvent: A solvent designed to remove black powder residue and fouling from muzzleloaders.
- Bullet starter with jag: Used to start the bullet down the barrel and ensure proper seating.
- Loading and cleaning jag that doubles as a ramrod extension: A versatile tool for both loading projectiles and attaching cleaning patches.
- 209/Musket capper: A tool for securely placing 209 shotgun primers or musket caps onto the nipple of the muzzleloader.
- Bore brush: Used to scrub the inside of the barrel to remove fouling.
- Magnum quick loaders: Pre-measured tubes designed for quick and easy powder loading.
- Breech plug grease: Lubricant specifically formulated to prevent seizing of the breech plug.
- Cleaning patches (40 pcs): Cotton patches used with the jag and solvent for cleaning.
- Season patches (25 pcs): Patches used for seasoning or lubricating the bore.
- Smackdown SST 250 grain bullets: High-performance polymer tipped muzzleloader bullets.
- EZ Load sabots: Plastic sabots designed to improve the accuracy of the bullets.
- Ammo tubes with caps (2): Tubes for storing powder charges or bullets.
- Caliber: Designed for use with 209 primers.
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility and a streamlined user experience. The inclusion of a specialized cleaning solvent, for example, is crucial for preventing corrosion and maintaining the longevity of the muzzleloader. Similarly, the bullet starter ensures consistent seating depth, which directly impacts accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit generally performs its intended job effectively. The cleaning solvent does a good job of removing fouling, the bullet starter simplifies the loading process, and the inclusion of bullets and sabots is a welcome addition.
The main weakness lies in the quality of the capper. It can be finicky. However, it becomes more reliable with use.
Overall, the kit meets expectations, particularly for beginner muzzleloader shooters. The presence of virtually everything you need to get started, minus the powder and primers, is a major selling point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of most components is adequate for their intended purpose. The bullet starter feels solid. The loading jag is reasonably well-made. The cleaning patches are absorbent and durable.
However, the capper feels somewhat cheap and plasticky. There is a slight learning curve associated with using the capper effectively, but it’s manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, most of the components in the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit should last for a reasonable amount of time. The cleaning tools are durable. The bullet starter is sturdy.
The bore brush will likely need replacement after extended use. I also anticipate that the capper might be the first item to fail. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the breech plug are essential to prevent seizing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit is primarily designed as a standalone kit, so there are limited customization options directly associated with it. However, the kit is compatible with most standard muzzleloading accessories.
The bore brush can be replaced with higher quality options from other brands. The bullets can be swapped out for other projectiles if desired. The loading jag is compatible with most standard ramrods and extensions.
Pros and Cons of Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
Pros
- All-in-one kit: Provides virtually everything needed to load, shoot, and clean a muzzleloader.
- Convenience: Simplifies the loading and cleaning process.
- Good starting point: Ideal for beginners looking to get into muzzleloading.
- Includes projectiles: Comes with both bullets and sabots.
- Reasonable price: Offers good value for the money.
Cons
- Capper quality: The included capper feels somewhat flimsy.
- Limited quantity of some items: Breech plug grease and some cleaning supplies will require replenishment after 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:
- Beginner muzzleloader shooters who are looking for a convenient and affordable way to get started.
- Hunters who want a pre-packaged kit that contains all the essential tools for loading, shooting, and cleaning their muzzleloaders.
- Individuals who value convenience and organization and want to avoid the hassle of purchasing individual muzzleloading components.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced muzzleloader shooters who already have a preferred set of high-quality tools and accessories.
- Those who require extremely durable and heavy-duty equipment for demanding conditions.
A must-have accessory to purchase alongside this product would be additional breech plug grease. Consider higher quality replacement cappers if using 209 primers.
Conclusion on Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit
The Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit is a solid all-in-one solution for muzzleloading. It offers convenience and value for money, particularly for beginners. While the capper quality could be improved, the overall package provides everything needed to get started with black powder shooting.
The price is justified, considering the inclusion of bullets and sabots. These would be extra expenses if buying other kits. I would personally recommend this kit to anyone new to muzzleloading or anyone looking for a simple and organized way to maintain their rifle.
If you’re ready to dive into the world of black powder shooting, the Traditions Load It/Shoot It/Clean It Kit is a great place to start. Pick one up today and experience the thrill of muzzleloading!