The Blackpowder Plainsman: A Beginner's Guide to Muzzle Loading and Reenactment on the Great Plains

Randy Smith (Author)

This carfully prepared book is an information-filled guide for the beginning muzzleloader and plainsman. It is the most in-depth discussion on these subjects ever written, and it is an invaluable tool for anyone wanting to learn the skills and history of the Plainsmen. The book begins by investigating the rebirth of the black powder experience in America. The author explains that the muzzleloading adventure of today involves much more than just guns. Art, history, science, nature and philosophy all become part of the hobby. The reader is led through many categories of muzzleloading, including kit building, hunting and reenactments. A thorough review of Plains history from 1820 to 1876 is included. The westward push of all American settlers and their interactions with the Indians is discussed. The major trails and the men and women who traveled them are shown and explained.

The author examines the different lifestyles of those men and women of the Plains - the raiders, soldiers and hunters. Along with a detailed description of their lives, he presents a review of the firearms they used, accompanied by photographs of authentic clothing for both men and women are shown. Four chapters are devoted to modern hunting with muzzleloading weapons. Everything from supply lists to food is included for those who enjoy camping and hunting with black power. Whether the hunt is for big game or small, all the details are given to assure an enjoyable experience. This book is a "must have" for active black powder enthusiasts and for all wanting to enjoy the thrill of authentic plains reenactments. With its many photographs, numerous suggestions for hunting, camping, and rendezvous activities; and extensive lists of suppliers of goods and services, it is truly a complete guide for beginning this lifetime hobby.

About the Author

Born in Stafford Country, Kansas, Randy Smith is a graduate of Washburn University of Topeka and has completed work toward a Master of Science degree in communications at Fort Hays State University. In addition to his present position as a high school communications teacher in Garden City, Randy also conducts seminars and workshops on the instruction of applied communication throughout the state of Kansas. Randy Smith is a member of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association, and the Kansas Muzzle Loading Association. He is active in rendezvous and reenactment activities, primarily those which are concerned with the early history of the Santa Fe Trail, and he hunts exclusively with black powder weapons. He looks forward to the day when he can take an elk or a bear with a muzzleloader. Randy's articles have been published in several black powder and historical publications including Muzzle Blasts, Wild West, Black Powder Hunting, and Muzzleloader. He is also the author of a western novel, Days of the Plainsman, and a teacher's supplement for the instruction of applied communication for the Kansas Competency Based Curriculum Center in Topeka, Kansas. Randy is married and the father of four children. During his free time, he enjoys hunting and rendezvous activities, historical research, writing, and trekking the hills and plains of western Kansas, packing a muzzleloader and a Pentax camera.