My muzzleloader hawkens .50cal wont shoot.?

Question

the hammer comes up and falls on the hammer just fine but it does not hit the percussion cap right and it does not go off.

Answer 1

Make sure the hammer comes all the way down onto the nipple. Make sure the nipples you are using are not hammered down and tall enough (replace it with a new one). If the hammer does not make contact with the nipple pull the side plate and check for foreign material in the hammer mechanism. If it clean check the tension on the spring. Good luck!

Answer 2

With an empty gun and no cap, slowly draw back the hammer and slowly release it forward onto the nipple. The hammer nose generally will have a round cutout in the center. Your nipple should go directly into that center. If not, the nipple barrel made need to be turned slightly to line these up.

Also need to check how old the caps are and how they have been stored. If a nipple is damaged, it may spend most of the energy of the dropping hammer just to shove the cap down onto the nipple and in essence, softening the blow. New nipple aren't very expensive and it is good to have a couple around and a spare to take into the field.

If the gun is brand new, I'd take it to the shop where you bought it to see if they will repair it free. If it is a used gun or has been used alot, normal wear and tear will take it's toll. When in doubt, have a qualified person check it out.

Answer 3

  Make sure your hammer s***w is tight . Is there any side to side play in your hammer ? If you **** the hammer and allow it to slowly   ( use your hand ) go forward after pulling the trigger does the nipple go inside of the hammer ? Are you sure your caps are good if it does ?