I Love Muzzleloading

Learn more about this book at https://indianagunmakers.com/about-the-book/The Cooley Collection of Vietor creations will be on display at the 2026 NMLRA Spring National Shoot during these days and times at the NMLRA Education Center in Friendship, Indiana:June 13, 2026, Saturday 9-4June 14, 2026, Sunday 10-4June 15, 2026, Monday 10-2June 16, 2026 Tuesday 10-2About the Book:Jeff Jaeger brings William H. Vietor’s world back to life through in-depth interviews, Vietor’s own poetry, and an extraordinary collection of photographs.William and his son, Francis, were talented amateur photographers who preserved a rare and intimate record of their family’s life. Building on that legacy, Jaeger adds hundreds of detailed color photographs of Vietor’s rifles, pistols, violins, powder horns, and tools—capturing both craftsmanship and character.A unique feature of this book is its interactive component: a QR code links to audio recordings of Vietor’s 1933 violin being played, along with readings of his poetry by his granddaughter and great-great-grandchildren.About Jeff: Jeff Jaeger is a longtime student, collector, and author of the American muzzle-loading longrifle, with a particular focus on those made in his home state of Indiana. With more than thirty years of collecting experience, he is known for his research and dedication to preserving Indiana’s gunmaking history.Books by Jeff Jaeger:John Small of Vincennes, Gunsmith on the Western Frontier (2010)Indiana Gunmakers and Their Muzzle-Loading Longrifles, 1778–1900 (2021)William H. Vietor, Indiana Gunsmith and American Renaissance Man(2026)

Follow Andrew's Unit: https://www.facebook.com/LincolnCountyMilitiahttps://www.instagram.com/lincoln_countyregt?igsh=N2gybGd2eWlpMGY2Learn more about this and many other things related to muzzleloading at ILoveMuzzleloading.comDon't miss the Kalamazoo Living History Show, March 21-22, 2026. Learn more at KalamazooShow.com

Follow Matty's work on facebookToday we're talking with Matty Ward about his history in muzzleloading and living history, how his interests have changed and how he balances 21st century life and being a father with his passion for history. Matty Ward is a maker devoted to needle, thread, and the quiet art of handwork. Each piece I create is stitched by hand, guided by historical practice, patience, and a deep respect for the craft as it was known centuries ago. The Stitched Waldo creates custom, hand-sewn men’s and boys’ garments inspired by the 18th century.Pre-order a "Ditch Rat Mess" Sticker hereLearn more about this and many other things related to muzzleloading at ILoveMuzzleloading.comDon't miss the Kalamazoo Living History Show, March 21-22, 2026. Learn more at KalamazooShow.comMusic by Hawken Horse and used with permission

Something that started as a "side business" has turned into a second career for Chris Laubach of Pennsylvania. Trained as a Tool and Die maker turned product development designer, Chris' focus has turned to his boyhood time in the shop with his father where he designs and manufactures locks, sights, and other muzzleloading accoutrements for today's enthusiast.In this episode we talk about Chris' background, being a student of icons like Wallace Gusler, and how this recent leap of faith has changed everything.Follow Chris here:https://williamsburgforge.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077024997427Learn more about this and many other things related to muzzleloading at ILoveMuzzleloading.comDon't miss the Kalamazoo Living History Show, March 21-22, 2026. Learn more at KalamazooShow.comMusic by Hawken Horse and used with permission

Today we're talking with Chris Supinger about his story in muzzleloading, how he got started in the 80s and how he kept his passion going while raising a family. Chris passed his love of history to his daughter and now they share research and ideas back and forth. Chris also works with a local site and group of volunteers to give others the opportunity to fall in love with history just as he did. Learn more about this and many other things related to muzzleloading at ILoveMuzzleloading.comDon't miss the Kalamazoo Living History Show, March 21-22, 2026. Learn more at KalamazooShow.com

Today I share some stories from my friend Max, who got into muzzleloading in 1962, on the cusp of a cultural wave that would define the next 30 years.