I am considering hunting in the black powder season next year, I have an older black poweder rifle its a Thompson Center Thunderhawk Shadow am I allowed to use this for black powder season?

Answer: 
The requirements for muzzleloader-only season weapons are: Muzzleloader Caliber Requirements In any hunt, including general any-weapon seasons and short-range hunts, it is unlawful to pursue or kill big game animals: • With any muzzleloading rifle or musket that is less than .45 caliber for deer, pronghorn, or mountain lion; or is less than .50 caliber for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat or black bear. Muzzleloader-Only Season Any person hunting in a muzzleloader-only season, including controlled hunts must have in their possession a license with a muzzleloader permit validation. During a muzzleloader only season, it is illegal to pursue or kill a big game animal with any firearm, muzzleloading pistol, or weapon other than a muzzleloading rifle or musket. In addition, the muzzleloading rifle or musket must be: • Capable of being loaded only from the muzzle. • Equipped with only open or peep sights. Scopes and any electronics are prohibited. Except hunters with a visual disability may apply for a permit to use nonmagnifying scopes. (Applications are available at Fish and Game offices). • Loaded only with loose black powder, loose Pyrodex, or other loose synthetic black powder. Pelletized powders are prohibited. • Equipped with a single or double-barrel. • Loaded with a projectile that is within .010 inch of the bore diameter. Sabots are prohibited. • Loaded with a patched round ball or conical non-jacketed projectile comprised wholly of lead or lead alloy. • Equipped only with a flint, percussion cap or musket cap. 209 primers are prohibited. • Equipped with an ignition system in which any portion of the cap is exposed or visible when the weapon is cocked and ready to fire.  
Answered on: 
Friday, November 9, 2012 - 12:54 PM MST