I Love Muzzleloading

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.

Today we're talking with 21 year old Ben Starnes about his muzzleloading story. Ben got his start at a young age as a lover of history, books caught him first, then local museum programs showed him what it could be like to re-create history; from there, he was hooked. He's participated in American Civil War events, but currently focuses on the American War for Independence where he is a member of the "Lincoln County Militia" representing a unit from the Carolina backcountry. Militia impressions are quintessential Americana, but he doesn't stop there. Ben and his Unit can also portray British Light Infantry if the need is there, showing their dedication to history and a passion for sharing it with others.Ben is a young man in a community of "grey hairs", I hope you enjoy his story and perspectives on muzzle loading and living history. Follow Ben'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

Read the full press release: https://www.ilovemuzzleloading.com/blog/estes-energetics-owner-of-goex-blackpowder-plant-acquired-by-voyager-technologies Voyager Technologies announced Nov. 20 it acquired Estes Energetics, a supplier of solid rocket motors and energetic materials. The move underscores Washington’s push to rebuild domestic production lines for critical defense components.

Today we talk with author and historian Jay Hopkins about his history in collecting muzzleloaders and how a lifetime of learning and losing mentors inspired him to write 3 books collecting his knowledge of southern horns. Learn more at https://www.ilovemuzzleloading.com/

In this episode, we catch up with Jake Book and chat about his latest immersive event, "Dark and Bloody Ground". Jake and I chat about the event, it's planning, and what he's learned for the next one. I hope this conversation provides some context for immersive events and helps you understand another part of this community to ultimately get involved and have some fun.Read Jake's blog - https://shirttailmess.blogspot.com/

Today we're talking with Dave Person and Maria Gray about the work their doing at Braintree Hill. Dave and Maria specialize in British arms from the muzzleloading period, but enter other avenues as we discuss. Dave and Maria are a unique pair, aged more than 50 years apart, the story of how they met, and how they continue to work together is a special one. I'm excited for you to hear it today. The Gunshoppe at Braintree Hill is composed of two artisans recreating historically accurate firearms from the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries. We are dedicated to creating examples of the finest flintlock firearms of the period that merge art with function.Follow their work online: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571370634703, https://www.instagram.com/bh_vt_gunshoppe/