Description
You’re in the field, the wind is picking up, and you need to cap your Thompson Center Hawken before that buck steps into the clearing. Fumbling with a tin of #11 percussion caps is a recipe for missed opportunities and frustration. That’s where dedicated tools make the difference. The Thompson Center In-Line Capper Holds 17 Caps Brass is a purpose-built, brass-bodied speed loader designed to store, protect, and quickly apply percussion caps to your muzzleloader’s nipple. It streamlines the reloading process, keeping caps dry, organized, and instantly accessible when seconds count—whether you’re on the range or in the woods.
This isn’t a gimmick; it’s a fundamental piece of kit for the serious black powder shooter. The solid brass construction provides heft and durability, resisting corrosion and the dings of field use. The clever in-line design allows you to load a stack of 17 caps into the tube’s internal magazine. A simple push of the spring-loaded plunger feeds a single cap perfectly onto the nipple, with the capper’s tip shielding the cap from wind and your fingers from fouling. It’s a one-handed operation that becomes second nature. At $18.98, it’s an affordable upgrade that pays for itself in reliability and convenience on every outing.
Key Features
The core advantage is speed under pressure. Reloading a muzzleloader involves multiple steps—powder, patch, ball—and the cap is the final, critical link. With this capper, you’re not searching for a tiny cap in a pocket or trying to pinch it onto a fouled nipple with cold, thick fingers. The tool positions the cap correctly every time. It’s drop-in ready for Thompson Center rifles and other popular in-line and sidelock models with standard nipples.
Capacity matters. Seventeen caps mean you’re prepared for a full day of shooting without constant reloading of the tool itself. The brass body isn’t just for looks; it’s a functional choice that won’t spark, adds longevity, and develops a patina that speaks to use. The spring mechanism is robust enough to feed reliably but not so strong as to make operation difficult. Here’s the thing—it simply works, fitting out of the box with no gunsmithing required, eliminating a key point of failure in the field.
Specifications
| Material | Solid Brass |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 17 #11 Percussion Caps |
| Compatibility | #11 Percussion Cap Nipples (Standard) |
| Operation | Spring-Loaded Plunger, In-Line Feed |
| Finish | Polished Brass |
| Intended Use | Muzzleloader Reloading Accessory |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Dramatically speeds up capping process. Protects caps from moisture and loss. Durable, corrosion-resistant brass construction. Ergonomic, one-handed operation. High 17-cap capacity reduces reloading interruptions. Compatible with a wide range of Thompson Center, CVA, and other traditional or in-line muzzleloaders using #11 caps.
Cons: Designed specifically for #11 caps; not for musket caps or #10s. The brass can develop a patina or tarnish over time, which some may dislike aesthetically (though it doesn’t affect function). Requires loading the tube magazine, an extra step at the bench before heading out.
Who This Is For
This capper is for the muzzleloader hunter who values a clean, efficient shot sequence. It’s for the traditional shooter who appreciates robust, mechanical tools that perform. It’s for anyone tired of dropping caps in the leaves or struggling with cold fingers during late-season hunts. If your kit includes a Thompson Center Hawken, Renegade, or a similar CVA or Traditions rifle, this accessory moves from a nice-to-have to an essential part of your loading block ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this work with my CVA Wolf or Traditions muzzleloader?
A: Yes. It is designed for standard #11 percussion cap nipples, which are common on many modern in-line and traditional sidelock models from brands like Thompson Center, CVA, Traditions, and Pedersoli. Always verify your firearm’s nipple size.
Q: How do you load the caps into the capper itself?
A: The plunger knob on the end unscrews, allowing you to remove the internal spring and plunger. You then stack up to 17 #11 caps (primer side toward the plunger) into the tube, reinsert the plunger assembly, and screw the knob back on. The tool is then ready for use.
Q: Is this only for hunting, or is it useful at the range?
A: It’s invaluable in both scenarios. At the range, it speeds up repetitive loading for practice or competition. On the hunt, its primary benefits are reliable, one-handed operation in adverse conditions and keeping your caps secure and dry. The 17-cap capacity supports extended sessions in either environment.
Ready to eliminate the weakest link in your muzzleloading sequence? This Thompson Center In-Line Capper is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Add it to your kit before your next trip to the range or the timber.
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