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Muzzleloader Aim: Use a Shooting Rest (Video Included)

Wade's World Hunting: What’s the best tip a black powder hunter can follow to insure accuracy when shooting?  Always use a rest! Using a steady support to stabilize the muzzle greatly enhances on-target bullet delivery. After proper sighting in, using a rest is the second half of the formula for hitting what you’re aiming at.
Many tree stands come equipped with shooting rails upon which hunters can take a firm rest. Or, in stands without rails, hunters should employ some system to provide a moveable, rigid rest (shooting sticks, etc.)

There are several options for getting a firm shooting rest when stalk-hunting. I have used shooting sticks. You can make a functional bipod by tying two equal-length sticks together a couple of inches from the tops of each stick. Today I use a walking staff with a commercial rest clamped on – an effective monopod.

Hunters can also use whatever rest might be at hand: holding against a tree trunk, over a limb, atop a fence post, across a backpack, etc.    

The point is, don’t take offhand shots with a muzzleloader if at all possible. Instead, plan ahead to have a stable rest when a shot presents itself. Stabilize your muzzle, keep your focus on-target, and exert slow, steady pressure on your trigger. You’ll be surprised when the gun goes off, and chances are high you’ll be deliver your bullet exactly where desired.