Whether you’re new to muzzleloading or a seasoned hunter unpacking a fresh CVA, properly preparing your muzzleloader before your first range session is one of the most important things you can do. Even a brand-new firearm needs a bit of attention before powder and projectile are loaded. Factory oil, debris from shipping, and moisture in critical ignition areas can all affect performance and reliability if not addressed.

This simple pre-range prep routine applies to all CVA muzzleloaders and ensures a clean, safe, and reliable first ignition.

Step 1: Remove the QRBP Breech Plug

Start by removing the Quick-Release Breech Plug (QRBP). This user-friendly plug is standard across CVA muzzleloaders and makes cleaning simple. Taking it out gives you access to inspect the breach and clean out any factory oils or residue that may be present from shipping and storage.

Step 2: Run a Cleaning Patch Through the Barrel

Using CVA’s Ultimate Range Rod and a pre-oiled cleaning patch, run the patch down the barrel. Even though the muzzleloader is new, the barrel may contain oil from the factory or residue from the packaging process. Removing it helps ensure that your powder charge isn’t contaminated, especially when using pelletized powder or loose propellants like Blackhorn 209.

Step 3: Follow with a Dry Patch

After the initial cleaning pass, follow up with a dry patch to soak up any remaining solvent or moisture left behind. A dry barrel is essential for reliable powder ignition. This step also helps prevent corrosion and ensures consistent performance when you load your first charge.

Step 4: Clean the Flash Hole in the Breech Plug

The flash channel inside the breech plug is where the primer ignites the powder charge. If oil or debris is left in this tiny passageway, you risk misfires or unreliable ignition.

To clean it out, spray a cleaning solvent like CVA’s Barrel Blaster directly into the flash hole. Let the solvent flush all the way through the breech plug and out the other side. This clears any residual oil or moisture and preps the breech for reliable primer ignition.

Step 5: Reinstall the Breech Plug

Once cleaned, reinstall the breech plug into the barrel and tighten it down securely. A quick function check by pulling back the hammer  confirms the plug is fully seated and that the firing mechanism is working properly.

Step 6: Use a Dry Patch as a “Catcher’s Mitt”

Even with a clean barrel and breech plug, there’s still a chance that a small amount of moisture remains inside the flash channel. To take care of this, insert a dry patch on your range rod and seat it firmly against the face of the breech plug inside the barrel.

This patch will act as a “catcher’s mitt,” positioned to catch any leftover solvent or moisture when the primer is ignited.

Step 7: Fire a Primer to Clear the Breech

With the dry patch in place, step outside to a safe shooting area. Insert a 209 shotgun primer (or large rifle primer for vari-flame systems), close the action, and cock the hammer. Fire the primer. This blast sends flame through the flash channel and into the dry patch, carrying with it any remaining moisture or residue.

Once complete, remove the rod and patch. Now, both your barrel and breech plug are dry, clean, and ready for loading.

Why This Process Matters

Skipping this pre-range procedure can lead to a number of issues - misfires, weak ignition, or erratic accuracy. Factory oil in the bore or breech can interfere with powder combustion and performance. By taking just a few minutes to clean and prep your CVA muzzleloader, you’re setting yourself up for success at the range and in the field.

This process also gives you peace of mind that your ignition system is functioning correctly, your bore is clean, and your firearm is ready to shoot.

Be Range-Ready and Hunt-Ready

Whether you're shooting a CVA Accura, Optima, or Wolf, the steps above will ensure your muzzleloader is dialed in and ready to go. Clean ignition, dry powder, and proper barrel prep lead to tighter groups and better results every time.

Before your next range trip,  or your first hunt of the season, take the time to run through this checklist. It’s a simple routine that can make a big difference.

For more CVA muzzleloader tips, cleaning gear, and support, visit www.cva.com. There you’ll find everything you need to get your muzzleloader field-ready and performing at its peak.