The new NitroBolt from Traditions provides a modernized revamp to a platform that many hunters and retailers had previously given little thought. What the NitroBolt does for hunters, both those who have been using traditional muzzleloaders for years and those brand new to the platform, is provide a stress-free, reliable, and easy-to-learn entry point and renewed take on muzzleloading.

Your customers are likely already familiar with the manner in which bolt-action rifles work, and this muzzleloader is no different. The 60-degree bolt throw feels natural in the hand and is easy to work, thus eliminating any worry of overcoming a steep learning curve. Even with a brand-new shooter, the process is easily explained, with bolt actions naturally providing a fantastic visual of the loading and unloading process. This knowledge is simply adapted to the unique ignition system of muzzleloaders, and the NitroBolt's departure from traditional methods is what makes it shine.

Ignition

Loading of the .50-caliber projectiles will feel familiar to those who already own a muzzleloader. Simply load your projectile through the muzzle, utilizing your ramrod to push it down until it is fully seated on the shelf within the barrel. There are many great options available on the market, with three standing out upon initial testing: Federal Premium's 350-grain B.O.R.LOCK MZ, Smackdown 340-grain ELD-X by Hornady, and Tradition's 290-grain Smackdown MZX. These projectiles are sold in quantities of 12-15 per pack, with additional weights available, allowing customers to fine-tune their preferred loadings.

At the heart of what makes the NitroBolt stand out is the design of its ignition system. Utilizing the patented Firestick ignition system from Federal, hunters are no longer required to measure out the powder required for each shot. Each Firestick is composed of a pre-measured encapsulated powder charge, specifically Hodgdon Triple Eight, and is loaded from the breech. Currently, Federal offers three different powder charges, ranging from 80 grains to 120 grains. 

Priming the FireSticks is simple; simply insert a 209 Muzzleloader Primer from Federal (sold separately) into its base, in the same spot a primer would be seated in a centerfire cartridge, without the need for special tools; simply use your hands. After seating their projectile, the shooter will then insert the primed FireStick into the chamber, close the bolt, and the NitroBolt is ready to fire as soon as the safety is moved to the fire position. 

No Shortcuts

In addition to being a quick and easy way to load the NitroBolt, there are several other selling points that customers should be aware of when considering a purchase. 

FireStick cartridges are fully encapsulated, with their polymer construction protecting the powder within from rain, snow, or any sort of moisture they may encounter. There are no shortcuts taken when it comes to this system, with each charge held to the same quality standards and tight tolerances as those used in loaded ammunition for other firearms. 

One last benefit that cannot be overlooked is the unloading process. With traditional muzzleloaders, if a hunter ended the day’s hunt without getting a deer on the ground, they would be required to painstakingly remove the projectile, primer, and all loose powder. The other option would be to fire their muzzleloader into a berm, but then they’d be required to clean it to avoid corrosion. 

With the FireStick system, unloading is as simple as opening the action to eject the unused cartridge, then using a ramrod to extract the projectile, no cleaning required. As much as we all want to have a successful hunt, it sure is nice coming out of the woods not having to clean anything.

Ready to Hunt

Traditions didn't release the NitroBolt with the expectation that it would serve as training wheels for those new to the world of muzzleloaders. It was released with the purpose and intent of providing a high-quality, dependable, accurate, yet simplified means of filling tags season after season. Just because something is easy to learn does not mean that the parts that make it up are subpar. 

The NitroBolt is equipped with a free-floated 24-inch chromoly fluted barrel, tapered with a 1:24 VAPR twist. The stock is pillar-bedded with an adjustable cheekpiece and adjustable length of pull, allowing parents to share it with the youngest hunters in their family, adjusting the fit as needed. Additional features include a three-position safety, patented extractor, cocking indicator, aluminum ramrod with Quick-T handle, and more. Sold separately but not required to install is a muzzle brake, which Traditions suggests using for optimal performance when using their full-bore or skirted Smackdown ELD-X or MZX projectiles. 

The NitroBolt is drilled and tapped for a scope, shipping with a base and ready for the customer’s preferred optic. While glass options are seemingly endless, we opted to mount a Burris Fullfield 3-12x42 atop our sample. The 3-12x magnification range is more than enough for your customers’ hunts, while still providing a wide field of view so they don't miss their target doe or buck sneaking in from the periphery. A 1-inch tube diameter means scope rings are readily available, and multi-coated lenses keep images crisp and bright, providing optimal low-light performance. While non-illuminated options are available, we opted for the Wind Ret-Illuminated reticle, anticipating heightened activity during first and last light. Knowing our shot would likely fall within 100 yards, we simply zeroed in pre-season and familiarized ourselves with the horizontal wind-hold hash marks, in case conditions got gusty. While not necessary, the illuminated reticle is a nice feature and an easy upsell when discussing new hunting optics with customers. 

Opportunities

As previously mentioned, the NitroBolt opens up a lot of options for cross-merchandising opportunities. Buyers will want a riflescope and rings to complete the package, opening up opportunities to offer scope-mounting services. They’ll likely also be looking for a cleaning kit, gun case and sling. Proper cleaning is a must, which is why Traditions offers the FireStick Cleaning Kit, complete with dry patches, bronze and nylon breech brushes, a pre-lubed cleaning cloth, an unloading jag, and a canister of pre-saturated cleaning patches. Few people enjoy cleaning their muzzleloaders, rifles, or any firearm after use, so customers will appreciate you being able to provide an easy solution.

One of the upsides to stocking the NitroBolt in your store is that it not only stands out among the other muzzleloaders, it provides an easier entry point for those new to blackpowder shooting, and a cleaner, simpler system for those who’ve been at it for years. 

With a simple hands-on demonstration of the functionality and capabilities of this system, you'll generate interest among customers who want to extend their hunting seasons. You might also find muzzleloaders and all the accessories that accompany them becoming a more profitable part of your inventory.