Description
Imagine the smell of burnt powder on a crisp Missouri morning, the satisfying thump of a .50 caliber ball hitting a target. You’re not just shooting; you’re connecting with history, and you don’t need a museum budget to do it. That’s the practical appeal of a traditional muzzleloader.
What is the Lyman Cap Lock 50 24″ Barrel No.16 Folding Leaf HD Stock #11 Percussion? It’s a classic, no-frills .50 caliber percussion rifle designed for the budget-conscious traditional shooter. It features a 24-inch barrel, a folding leaf rear sight, and a robust hardwood stock, offering a reliable and affordable entry into black powder hunting or target shooting.
Let’s be clear—this isn’t a custom-made, hand-engrained showpiece costing thousands. The Lyman Cap Lock 50 24″ Barrel No.16 Folding Leaf HD Stock #11 Percussion is a workhorse. For a price of $412.37, you get a solid, functional firearm that’s ready for the field. The real value here is in its simplicity and proven design. You’ll spend your time learning the rhythm of loading and shooting, not fussing over complex adjustments or breaking the bank. It’s a tangible piece of shooting heritage that won’t require a second mortgage.
The key features start with that 24-inch barrel. It’s a practical length, offering a good balance between maneuverability in a blind or woods and sight radius for accuracy. The folding leaf rear sight is a classic design—simple, durable, and effective for the ranges black powder is meant for. The HD (Hardwood) stock provides a sturdy foundation, built to handle the recoil of a .50 caliber charge. Here’s the thing—this rifle is drop-in ready for standard #11 percussion caps, a common and widely available ignition system. You won’t need to hunt for obscure, expensive components.
Compatibility is straightforward. This rifle uses standard .490 or .495 round balls with pre-lubricated patches, and it’s designed to work with popular black powder substitutes like Pyrodex or Triple Seven, as well as genuine black powder where available. Its build follows traditional patterns, meaning accessories like possible bags and cleaning jags designed for similar Lyman or Thompson/Center rifles will generally fit without issue. The rifle weighs in at approximately 7.5 lbs, a manageable heft that helps steady your aim.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .50 |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Ignition | #11 Percussion Cap |
| Sights | Folding Leaf Rear, Blade Front |
| Stock | Hardwood (HD) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40 Inches |
Pros & Cons
On the plus side, the price is the major advantage. You’re getting a complete, shootable traditional rifle for well under what many modern centerfires cost. The simple design means there’s less to go wrong, and maintenance is part of the ritual. It’s also eligible for special muzzleloader hunting seasons, extending your time in the field. The tradeoff? It’s a single-shot muzzleloader. Your rate of fire is measured in minutes per shot, not rounds per minute. It requires a dedicated kit of powder, balls, patches, and caps—this isn’t a grab-and-go firearm. But for many, that’s precisely the point.
So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the hunter looking to participate in Missouri’s muzzleloader season without a huge investment. It’s for the recreational shooter who finds satisfaction in the process and history of black powder. It’s also a great first traditional gun for a mentor to introduce someone to the fundamentals. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do I need besides the rifle to start shooting?
A: You’ll need .50 caliber round balls, pre-lubricated patches, black powder or a approved substitute, #11 percussion caps, a powder measure, cleaning supplies, and a starter/ramrod set. It’s a kit, but each component is affordable.
Q: Is this suitable for hunting deer in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. The .50 caliber projectile with a proper powder charge is more than sufficient for whitetail deer at typical muzzleloader ranges. Always check the current Missouri Department of Conservation regulations for specific season dates and legal requirements.
Q: How difficult is it to clean compared to a modern rifle?
A: It requires more immediate attention. Black powder and its substitutes are corrosive, so you must clean the barrel, nipple, and lock thoroughly with soapy water or a dedicated black powder solvent soon after shooting. It’s a different routine, but a simple one.
If you’ve been curious about traditional muzzleloading and want a straightforward, dependable rifle to start with, the Lyman Cap Lock 50 represents a solid value. See the full details on our site.
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