Would you use a scope on a BP gun for hunting?

[Armored farmer]

Not long ago I would have criticized anyone using a b/p or levergun with glass on it. I have matured since I got my bifocals. Too many times I have judged others, only to have the same fate strike me.
If you want or need glass on your flintlock......I say go for it.

 

[Nite Ryder]

I haven't used a BP rifle for years for hunting, but I've shot several different rifles I own at our local range. I have four inline BP Rifles and a Thompson ML barrel on an Encore frame. All of my inline guns have scopes, and here in Oregon you can not use a scope on your rifle if you are hunting with a black powder tag, you can use them during the regular rifle season, however. I got these rifles so I would have something to shoot just in case Obama decides to take your guns during his next four years in office. I look for him to try to do that, or actually do it. He has used executive orders to bypass Congress, and I look for him to continue to do so.

 

[Ryanxia]

If it would help you see better definitely do it. I know people who do it who have 20/20 vision.

I personally don't because I like the traditional look/feel but if I just wanted an extra 2 weeks of hunting I could see making it as accurate as I could.

 

[Donny]

All but one of my ML rifles have open sights. I have one with a scope initially because I broke the front sight and didn't want to hassle with getting a new front sight. I had the scope laying around so I put it on that rifle. I also have bifocals and shots much beyond 50 to 70 yards are becoming a challenge. The scope has made it possible tor me to hit a target at 100 yards. I still prefer open traditional sights but the scope gives me another option.

Don

 

[doubleh]

I don't see anything wrong with using a scope on a muzzleloader. However your state might so check first if you are going to hunt with it. My state doesn't allow anything but open sights for muzzleloader deer hunting. There are provisions for handicapped hunters but eyesight doesn't count. Scopers are legal on any other firearm. Doesn't make sense to me.

 

[OrangePwrx9]

I'd try aperture sights on that carbine before I'd put a scope on it. I'd recommend the old TC tang mounted peep sight. It can still be found on the auction sites for $50-$60 if you look around. The WM carbine will take the same sight as the Hawken and Renegade, as I recall. I believe Lyman also makes a much more elaborate aperture target sight that fits that rifle. It works very well, but is kind of clunky for a hunting rifle.

At age 66 I have the same vision problems as you. However, it's a known fact that peering through a small hole will sharpen vision considerably. It's worked for me and I now have aperture sights for all of my BP hunting rifles.

When I use a regular open sight, I get a slightly displaced double image of the front sight when I pull it into the notch. With the aperture/peep sight, the front sight stays clear and sharp.